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Classic Chicken Inasal

Classic Chicken Inasal

Krysta
Chicken Inasal is a beloved Filipino grilled chicken dish originating from Bacolod. Known for its distinct tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavor, it features chicken marinated in a blend of vinegar, calamansi juice, ginger, garlic, and lemongrass, then basted with annatto oil during grilling.
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon annatto seeds
  • 4 pieces chicken leg quarters
  • 0.5 cup cane vinegar
  • 0.25 cup calamansi juice
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger grated
  • 2 stalks lemongrass pounded and bruised
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons calamansi juice for basting
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt for basting

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Annatto Oil: In a small saucepan, heat 0.5 cup vegetable oil over low heat. Add annatto seeds and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil turns a deep orange-red. Strain the oil into a heatproof bowl, discarding the seeds. Set aside to cool.
  • Prepare Chicken Marinade: In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine the chicken leg quarters, cane vinegar, 0.25 cup calamansi juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, pounded lemongrass, black pepper, brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Mix well to ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
  • Prepare Basting Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix 0.25 cup of the prepared annatto oil with the melted butter, 2 tablespoons calamansi juice, and 0.5 teaspoon salt. Stir until well combined. Set aside.
  • Grill the Chicken: Preheat a charcoal grill to a medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess aromatics. Do not wipe dry.
  • Grill the chicken for 30-40 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes, until cooked through and tender. During the last 15-20 minutes of grilling, frequently baste the chicken generously with the annatto-butter sauce using a brush, ensuring an even coating and beautiful color. Continue to turn and baste until the chicken skin is golden-brown and slightly charred in places, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Serve hot with steamed white rice and a dipping sauce made from sinamak (spiced vinegar) if desired.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight. Serve with steamed rice and a side of sinamak (spiced vinegar) for an authentic experience. Chicken thighs can also be used for juicier results, adjusting grilling time as needed.
Keyword Chicken Inasal, Filipino grilled chicken, annatto, calamansi, chicken recipe, BBQ, Bacolod, grilled