When the weather turns cool and cozy evenings call for comfort food, my go-to dish is always Chicken Afritada. This classic Filipino stew combines tender chicken with a savory tomato sauce and a colorful medley of vegetables, creating a warm embrace of flavor in every bite. Just the sight of it bubbling away on the stove transports me to family gatherings where laughter and good food abound.
What’s even better? This Chicken Afritada recipe is not only easy to whip up on any weeknight, but it also allows for delightful variations. Whether you opt for a sweet twist with pineapple chunks, a cheesy surprise, or even switch it up to Pork Afritada, there’s a version to please every palate. Pair it with steaming white rice, and you have a satisfying meal that feels like a hug from your kitchen. Let’s dive into the heart of this comforting dish!
Why is Chicken Afritada a Family Favorite?
Comforting Flavor: This Chicken Afritada recipe embodies warmth, featuring rich tomato sauce and tender meats.
Simple Steps: With just a few ingredients and straightforward cooking, it’s perfect for busy nights.
Versatile Options: Customize it with variations like Pineapple or Cheesy Afritada to cater to every taste.
Nourishing Choice: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a hearty option that keeps everyone satisfied.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Serve it at family dinner for smiles all around; it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults!
Chicken Afritada Recipe Ingredients
For the Stew
• Chicken (1 ½ lbs) – Use bone-in pieces for richer flavor; boneless cuts are a quicker option.
• Potato (2 pieces) – Adds heartiness and thickens the stew; sweet potatoes offer a different sweetness.
• Carrot (1 piece) – Brings both sweetness and vibrant color; parsnips can be an interesting swap.
• Tomato sauce (8 oz) – Provides the base flavor; homemade sauce elevates freshness.
• Hotdogs (3 pieces, sliced) – Introduces a unique taste and texture; chorizo adds a spicy kick.
• Green peas (½ cup) – Offers a lovely crunch and color; frozen peas are a convenient choice.
• Bay leaves (3 pieces) – Infuses the dish with herby goodness; both fresh and dried are suitable.
• Red onion (1 piece, chopped) – Gives depth of flavor; yellow onions can also do the trick.
• Garlic (2 teaspoons, minced) – Enhances flavors beautifully; using fresh garlic makes a difference.
• Chicken broth (3 cups) – Adds moisture and richness; vegetable broth works as a plant-based substitute.
• Sugar (½ teaspoon) – Balances acidity from the tomato sauce; feel free to omit based on preference.
• Cooking oil (3 tablespoons) – Essential for sautéing aromatics; olive or canola oil are great choices.
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste – Important for seasoning; adjust based on dietary requirements.
This Chicken Afritada recipe is crafted to be simple yet flavorful, perfect for family dinners and cozy gatherings!
How to Make Chicken Afritada
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot, pour 3 tablespoons of cooking oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped red onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
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Cook the Chicken: Add 1 ½ lbs of chicken pieces, cooking each side for approximately 30 seconds until they are lightly browned. This step enhances the flavor of the chicken.
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Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour in 8 oz of tomato sauce and 3 cups of chicken broth. Stir well, then cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer with Bay Leaves: Add 3 pieces of bay leaves, cover the pot, and let it simmer on medium heat for 30 minutes. The chicken should be tender and infused with flavor by now.
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Incorporate Hotdogs and Carrots: Mix in 3 sliced hotdogs and 1 chopped carrot, cooking for an additional 3 minutes. The hotdogs will add a unique flavor profile, while the carrot contributes sweetness.
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Add the Potatoes: Introduce 2 chopped potatoes to the stew, cover, and let them cook for 8 minutes. They will provide heartiness and help thicken the dish.
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Stir in Green Peas: Finally, add ½ cup of green peas and cook for 2 more minutes. This will bring a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your Chicken Afritada.
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Season to Taste: Before serving, season with salt and ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. A good seasoning can elevate the flavors!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for an extra pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Afritada?
A steaming bowl of Chicken Afritada on the table is just the beginning of your cozy meal experience. Paired with thoughtful sides, it’s an invitation to savor every moment.
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Steamed White Rice: This classic pairing effortlessly absorbs the rich, saucy goodness of the stew, making each bite a delightful experience. There’s nothing quite like fluffy rice complementing the warmth of Chicken Afritada.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and aromatic flavors, perfectly offsetting the heartiness of the stew. It’s great for soaking up every drop of that luscious tomato sauce!
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Fresh Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory stew, enhancing the overall meal balance. Crisp veggies and zesty dressing awaken the palate between bites.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, roasted vegetables bring an earthy sweetness that complements the Chicken Afritada brilliantly. Their tenderness paired with the stew ensures a hearty and wholesome meal.
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Pineapple Fried Rice: For a fun twist, serve pineapple fried rice alongside to echo any sweet notes in the dish. The sweet, fruity flavors beautifully enhance the savory depth of your Chicken Afritada.
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Iced Tea or Calamansi Juice: Cool, refreshing drinks like iced tea or calamansi juice can perfectly cleanse the palate while adding a delightful zesty touch.
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Leche Flan: Conclude your meal with this creamy, caramel-topped dessert for a sweet finale. Its smooth texture and rich flavor provide a comforting contrast to the savory stew experience.
Chicken Afritada Variations
Feel free to mix things up with these delightful twists on the classic recipe!
- Pork Afritada: Substitute chicken with pork shoulder for a heartier flavor; it adds a rich depth that’s hard to resist. Imagine the melt-in-your-mouth texture of tender pork mingling with the luscious sauce.
- Pineapple Chicken Afritada: Add pineapple chunks during cooking for a burst of sweetness and tang; it perfectly balances the savory notes. The unexpected fruitiness will surprise your taste buds in the best possible way!
- Cheesy Chicken Afritada: Stir in shredded cheese towards the end for a creamy, indulgent finish; it creates a comforting, gooey texture loved by all ages. This version is especially popular with kids who can’t resist anything cheesy.
- Spicy Chicken Afritada: Toss in sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to amp up the heat; it adds a kick that livens up every bite. If you’re a fan of spice, this variation will surely hit the spot!
- Vegetable-Rich Afritada: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans for more texture and nutrition; these additions bring vibrant colors and extra crunch. It’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your family’s meal!
- Creamy Coconut Chicken Afritada: Replace chicken broth with coconut milk for a tropical twist; its rich creaminess complements the flavors beautifully. This version takes the stew to a whole new level of indulgence.
- Herb-Infused Afritada: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano; their earthy notes blend wonderfully with the stew. A simple addition that goes a long way!
- Overnight Marinated Chicken: Marinate chicken pieces in soy sauce and citrus juice before cooking for an extra burst of flavor; the marinade infuses the chicken with delicious, savory goodness.
Each variation brings its own unique flair, ensuring you’ll never tire of this comforting classic!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Afritada options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the vegetables (like potatoes, carrots, and onions) and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, marinate the chicken pieces in the tomato sauce and broth for up to 24 hours; this will enhance the flavor and tenderness. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the aromatics, add the marinated chicken and other ingredients, and simmer away. This way, you’ll achieve all the comforting flavors of a homemade Chicken Afritada without the last-minute rush!
Storage Tips for Chicken Afritada
Fridge: Store your Chicken Afritada in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the dish safe to eat.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, transfer Chicken Afritada to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 to 4 months, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Reheating: For best results, reheat your Chicken Afritada in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in 1-minute intervals until fully warmed through.
Serving Suggestions: Always serve it warm, ideally over fresh, fluffy rice, to bring out the comforting flavors of this beloved chicken afritada recipe.
Expert Tips for a Perfect Chicken Afritada
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Proper Searing: Ensure chicken pieces are browned evenly before adding liquids; this creates depth in flavor and avoids a bland stew.
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Flavor Balance: Taste and adjust seasonings after adding sugar; it helps balance acidity, giving your Chicken Afritada a rich, well-rounded flavor.
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Vegetable Choices: Don’t hesitate to swap veggies based on what you have at home; using seasonal produce enhances freshness and taste in your Chicken Afritada recipe.
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Cooking Time: Monitor the simmering time; overcooking can make chicken dry. Aim for tenderness without losing moisture, keeping the dish hearty.
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Serving Warm: Always serve your Chicken Afritada over warm, fluffy rice to absorb the savory sauce and elevate the overall experience.
Chicken Afritada Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken Afritada?
Absolutely! I recommend using bone-in chicken pieces for a richer flavor. Bone-in parts have more moisture and depth compared to boneless cuts, which may cook faster but can lose some of that hearty essence. If convenience is your goal, boneless chicken can still yield a delicious result!
How long can I store Chicken Afritada in the fridge?
You can refrigerate your Chicken Afritada in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. This allows the flavors to continue melding together, making it even more delicious on reheating! Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing it up.
Can I freeze Chicken Afritada?
Very much so! For freezing, transfer your Chicken Afritada to a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 3 to 4 months. To ensure quality, make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave!
What should I do if my Chicken Afritada is too salty?
If you find that your Chicken Afritada is too salty, you can balance it out by adding more vegetables, such as chopped potatoes or carrots. These will absorb some of the saltiness. Alternatively, adding a touch more tomato sauce or chicken broth can help dilute the flavors. Try simmering it a bit longer after adjusting to meld the flavors together.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing Chicken Afritada for someone with allergies, always verify that ingredients like broth and hotdogs are free from allergens. Additionally, if you want to make it gluten-free, ensure that your chicken broth and other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free. For an extra health boost, feel free to swap in more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini!
Hearty Chicken Afritada Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped red onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces, cooking each side for about 30 seconds until lightly browned.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir well, cover the pot, and bring to a boil.
- Add the bay leaves, cover the pot, and let simmer on medium heat for 30 minutes.
- Mix in the sliced hotdogs and chopped carrot, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
- Introduce the chopped potatoes to the stew, cover, and cook for 8 minutes.
- Add the green peas and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.