Camille R Colmenares

Discover how to make authentic Bacolod Chicken Inasal — juicy, smoky grilled chicken marinated in calamansi, lemongrass, and cane vinegar for that signature Filipino flavor.
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. 🌟
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. 🏙️🍴
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. 🇵🇭🍗✨
Discover how to make authentic Bacolod Chicken Inasal — juicy, smoky grilled chicken marinated in calamansi, lemongrass, and cane vinegar for that signature Filipino flavor.

Marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors of calamansi, vinegar, and lemongrass to deeply infuse.
Always baste with atsuete oil throughout grilling to keep the chicken juicy and give it that signature golden-orange color.
Grill over charcoal for a more authentic smoky aroma.
Serve with garlic rice, chicken oil, and sinamak vinegar for the true Bacolod experience.
We use affiliate links, which may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Combine vinegar, calamansi juice, minced onion, garlic, ginger, annatto powder, cracked black pepper, salt, and pounded lemongrass in a large bowl.
Add the chicken leg quarters and coat them thoroughly with the marinade.
Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
In a saucepan over low heat, combine oil, black pepper, garlic, annatto, bay leaves, and lemongrass.
Simmer gently until the oil becomes orange-red in color. Avoid burning the garlic.
Strain the oil and set aside for basting.
Optional: To make chicken oil, add chicken skin and fry slowly until golden and crispy.
Preheat a grill over medium heat.
Grill the chicken, turning occasionally and basting generously with atsuete oil.
Cook until the chicken is golden brown, lightly charred, and cooked through, about 30 minutes.
Serve hot with garlic rice and dipping sauces if desired.
1/10/2025
Used lemon instead of calamansi, still came out delicious. I’ll marinate longer next time!
7/18/2024
Tried this on charcoal—smells like Bacolod streets! Juicy and flavorful. My family loved it.
4/9/2024
I haven't been home (Bacolod) for a long time. I missed Bacolod inasal 🤤.
4/9/2024
Yung okoy din sa Bacolod nakakamiss!
4/8/2024
Sa wakas, the legit recipe of chicken inasal. ❤️
Create and edit your own recipes, import from most websites, plan your week, and build smart grocery lists.
Import recipes from most websites
Create and edit your own recipes
Plan your week with the Meal Planner
Mark favourites for quick access
Build grocery lists from your meal plan
Tick off pantry items you already have
Serving Size: 1 chicken leg quarter
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Add your personal creations and build your own recipe collection.