In this paper, we propose an adaptive control scheme that can be applied to nonlinear systems with unknown parameters. The considered class of nonlinear systems is described by the block-oriented models, specifically, the Wiener models. These models consist of dynamic linear blocks in series with static nonlinear blocks. The proposed adaptive control method is based on the inverse of the nonlinear function block and on the discrete-time sliding-mode controller. The parameters adaptation are performed using a new recursive parametric estimation algorithm. This algorithm is developed using the adjustable model method and the least squares technique. A recursive least squares (RLS) algorithm is used to estimate the inverse nonlinear function. A time-varying gain is proposed, in the discrete-time sliding mode controller, to reduce the chattering problem. The stability of the closed-loop nonlinear system, with the proposed adaptive control scheme, has been proved. An application to a pH neutralisation process has been carried out and the simulation results clearly show the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive control scheme.