Lechon Manok Recipe: A Filipino Feast of Flavor and Tradition
If you’re craving a dish that embodies the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine, Lechon Manok (Filipino Roast Chicken) is the perfect recipe to try. A beloved dish in Filipino households, lechon manok is the Filipino version of roasted chicken, typically cooked over an open flame or in a rotisserie oven. This savory, aromatic chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and herbs, then roasted to golden perfection. The result is a juicy, tender chicken with a crispy, flavorful skin that’s bound to impress any guest or satisfy your own cravings.
Whether served during a festive occasion or as a weeknight family dinner, lechon manok is an incredibly versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of Filipino flavors, here’s a step-by-step guide to making your very own Lechon Manok at home.
What Makes Lechon Manok Special?
Lechon manok is more than just a roast chicken; it’s a celebration of Filipino culinary traditions. What sets it apart from other roasted chicken recipes is the marinade. The combination of soy sauce, citrus, garlic, and spices infuses the chicken with a rich, tangy flavor that penetrates deep into the meat. The marinade also creates a beautifully caramelized, crispy skin when roasted, adding layers of texture and flavor to every bite.
Lechon Manok is traditionally cooked on a spit over an open flame, but you can easily recreate this beloved dish at home using an oven or a rotisserie grill. Either way, you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful chicken that’s bursting with Filipino zest.
Why You’ll Love This Lechon Manok Recipe
Deliciously Flavorful: The marinade creates a deep, savory flavor that infuses the chicken, giving it a unique taste that’s different from your typical roast chicken.
Perfectly Juicy Chicken: The marinade and slow roasting process ensures that the chicken remains moist and tender on the inside while the skin crisps up perfectly.
Easy to Make at Home: You don’t need a professional rotisserie to make this dish. The recipe works great in a conventional oven, so you can enjoy the taste of lechon without leaving your kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a party, or a special celebration, Lechon Manok is sure to steal the spotlight. Its irresistible aroma and flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Customizable Marinade: The marinade can be adjusted to your taste preferences, adding more heat, sweetness, or umami, depending on your liking.
Ingredients for Lechon Manok
For the Chicken and Marinade:
1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cleaned and patted dry
1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably Filipino soy sauce)
1/4 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with lemon or lime juice)
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
1 head garlic, minced
1 medium onion, quartered
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon salt
1-2 stalks lemongrass, smashed (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)
1-2 bay leaves (optional, for added depth)
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
1 teaspoon white pepper (optional, for a bit of spice)
1/4 cup water (or chicken broth)
For Stuffing the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):
1 onion, quartered
2-3 cloves garlic, crushed
1-2 stalks lemongrass, smashed (optional)
1 lime or lemon, quartered
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