ProudlyFilipino.com Editor 
Chicken Inasal tops the TasteAtlas list as the number one Filipino food! This beloved grilled chicken dish from Bacolod leads the ranking of the top 100 Filipino foods.
This iconic dish is praised not only for its distinct, flavorful marinade but also for its widespread appeal across the country.
The Unique Flavors of Chicken Inasal
Chicken Inasal’s popularity stems from its unique preparation method. The dish is made by marinating chicken in a blend of vinegar, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and other spices, giving it a fragrant and tangy flavor. What sets this dish apart from other grilled chicken recipes is the use of annatto oil, which gives the meat a vibrant red-orange color while adding a subtle earthy taste.
As TasteAtlas highlights, “It employs various chicken cuts marinated in a mixture of vinegar and numerous spices such as lemongrass, garlic, and ginger,” with annatto oil playing a central role in both flavor and appearance. The grilled chicken is often served with rice, dipped in a mix of soy sauce, calamansi (Filipino lime), and chili, and accompanied by a bowl of chicken oil to drizzle on the rice.
Top Places to Experience Chicken Inasal
For food lovers eager to try the best version of this Filipino food, TasteAtlas also named some of the most notable restaurants where Chicken Inasal shines. Among the top recommendations are:
- Aida’s and Nena’s Beth at Manokan Country, both located in Bacolod, the dish’s place of origin.
- Island Chicken Inasal, which has brought the Bacolod favorite to various parts of the Philippines.
- Balay Dako, known for offering traditional Filipino cuisine with a scenic view in Tagaytay.
- Barrio Inasal, another crowd favorite serving delicious Chicken Inasal.
These establishments are celebrated for their authentic preparation and adherence to traditional flavors, making them must-visit spots for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the best Chicken Inasal.
A Star-Studded List of Filipino Foods
TasteAtlas gave Chicken Inasal a 4.5-star rating, placing it at the top of the list, but it wasn’t the only dish to receive recognition. Following closely was the celebrated Lechon, a whole roasted pig, which is a staple at Filipino festivities. It garnered a rating of 4.4 stars, praised for its crispy skin and tender meat. Leche Flan, the creamy caramel custard dessert, also secured a 4.4-star rating, making it a sweet favorite among the top dishes.
The complete top five Filipino foods, according to the rankings, are:
- Chicken Inasal – 4.5 stars
- Lechon – 4.4 stars
- Leche Flan – 4.4 stars
- Bulalo – A comforting beef marrow soup popular in the cooler regions of the Philippines.
- Lumpiang Shanghai – Crispy spring rolls often filled with minced pork, vegetables, and served with sweet and sour sauce.
While the top five dishes represent some of the most well-known Filipino favorites, the TasteAtlas list also recognized other noteworthy foods. Rounding out the top ten are:
- Sinigang na Baboy – A sour pork soup made with tamarind and various vegetables.
- Tortang Talong – A simple but flavorful eggplant omelet.
- Lechon Kawali – Deep-fried pork belly, often served with a vinegar dipping sauce.
- Bicol Express – A spicy pork dish cooked in coconut milk and chili peppers, originating from the Bicol region.
- Arroz Caldo – A comforting rice porridge infused with ginger and topped with fried garlic, often eaten as a hearty breakfast or cold remedy.
Chicken Inasal: A National Favorite
Chicken Inasal’s prominence is not a new phenomenon. In September, TasteAtlas readers also ranked it, along with Sinigang, as the best Filipino food of the month. The enduring love for this grilled chicken dish is a testament to its simplicity, accessibility, and deep-rooted cultural significance. Whether enjoyed at a humble roadside stall or a celebrated restaurant, Chicken Inasal offers a flavorful glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of the Philippines.
From its tangy, aromatic marinade to its perfectly grilled finish, Chicken Inasal continues to captivate both local and international palates. Chicken Inasal tops the TasteAtlas list as the number one Filipino food, solidifying its place as a culinary gem of the Philippines. As the list also celebrates other classic Filipino dishes, it highlights the richness and diversity of Filipino cuisine, which continues to gain global recognition.
For a deeper dive into the complete list of the top 100 Filipino foods, you can visit TasteAtlas here.
