Name: Chicken Inasal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 165 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: Chicken leg quarters; Cane vinegar; White onion, minced; Garlic, minced; Ginger, minced or grated; Annatto (atsuete) powder; Calamansi juice; Cracked black pepper; Lemongrass (tanglad); Salt; Neutral oil; Black pepper; Garlic; Annatto (atsuete) seeds or powder; Bay leaves (laurel); Lemongrass (tanglad)

A classic Bacolod-style Chicken Inasal recipe by Camille Colmenares, featuring a vibrant marinade with calamansi, cane vinegar, and lemongrass.

Chicken Inasal: Bacolod’s Iconic Grilled Chicken 🍗🔥

If there’s one dish that perfectly represents Bacolod’s culinary soul, it’s Chicken Inasal. This smoky, tangy, and juicy grilled chicken is more than just food—it’s a cultural experience. Camille Colmenares’ version brings this Bacolod specialty straight to your grill, with an authentic marinade of calamansi, cane vinegar, lemongrass (tanglad), garlic, and ginger, finished with vibrant atsuete oil for that signature golden glaze. 🌟

What Makes Chicken Inasal Special? ✨

Unlike your typical grilled chicken, Inasal is marinated in a blend of cane vinegar and calamansi juice, giving it that unmistakable tangy brightness balanced with aromatic herbs. The secret weapon? Lemongrass and ginger, which infuse the meat with a refreshing depth of flavor. As the chicken grills, it’s basted repeatedly with annatto oil, keeping it moist, smoky, and vibrantly colored.

Traditionally, Chicken Inasal is served with garlic rice (sinangag), soy sauce-calamansi dipping sauce, and sometimes a touch of chili for heat. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re dining along Lacson Street in Bacolod City, where this dish reigns supreme. 🏙️🍴

Tips for the Perfect Inasal 👩‍🍳

Marinate overnight if you can—this ensures every bite is full of flavor.
Use cane vinegar or sukang tuba for the most authentic Filipino taste.
Don’t skip the atsuete oil basting—it’s what gives the chicken its iconic color and rich aroma.
Grill over charcoal if possible, to achieve that authentic smoky Bacolod street food vibe. 🔥

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

Authentic Flavor: Straight from Bacolod’s kitchen traditions.
Keto-Friendly: Low-carb and packed with protein.
Meal-Prep Ready: Make a batch and reheat for easy weekday meals.
Versatile: Pair with garlic rice, grilled veggies, or even a fresh salad.

A Taste of Home 🏡

For many Filipinos, Chicken Inasal is more than a dish—it’s a nostalgic reminder of home, fiestas, and street food nights with family and friends. Camille’s version captures that spirit while keeping the method simple and approachable, even for home cooks abroad.

So fire up your grill, baste generously, and enjoy a plate of this irresistible Filipino grilled chicken. Once you try it, you’ll see why Bacolod proudly calls itself the home of Inasal. 🇵🇭🍗✨