There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the scent of Chicken Afritada bubbling away on the stove. As the rich tomato-based sauce envelops tender pieces of chicken and vibrant vegetables, it’s like a cozy embrace for the soul. I first tried this classic Filipino dish at a family gathering, where it quickly became clear that it wasn’t just a meal — it was a celebration of flavors and memories.
This Chicken Afritada recipe is not only easy to whip up but also versatile enough to cater to different tastes; think Pork Afritada or even a cheesy twist! Perfect for a leisurely weekend dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this stew pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice, ready to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. So, grab your apron, and let’s transform simple ingredients into a comforting dish that feels like home.
Why will you love this Chicken Afritada Recipe?
Simplicity: This recipe requires only basic cooking skills, making it accessible for everyone from beginners to seasoned chefs.
Versatility: Feel free to customize it with variations like Pork Afritada or a cheesy twist, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your table.
Rich Flavor: The combination of tomato sauce, chicken, and vibrant vegetables creates a deliciously comforting dish that warms your heart.
Time-Saving: Quick to prepare yet comforting enough for a special occasion, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners.
Crowd-Pleasing: Family and friends will love gathering around this hearty stew, making mealtime a joyful experience. Ready to impress them? Try this easy Chicken Afritada recipe!
Chicken Afritada Ingredients
For the Stew
• Chicken (1 ½ lbs) – This is your main protein source; substitute boneless chicken breast or thighs for quicker cooking.
• Potato (2 pieces, cubed) – Adds heartiness and texture; sweet potatoes can make a sweeter version.
• Carrot (1 piece, sliced) – Contributes a lovely sweetness and color.
• Tomato Sauce (8 oz) – The base of the rich sauce; canned diced tomatoes create a chunkier texture.
• Hotdogs (3 pieces, sliced) – Introduces a savory taste; try beef or pork hotdogs for a different flavor.
• Green Peas (½ cup) – Offers a burst of freshness and color; use frozen peas for convenience.
• Bay Leaves (3 pieces) – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle aroma; dried thyme can be a quick substitute.
• Red Onion (1 piece, chopped) – Imparts depth to the stew; if unavailable, white onion is a fine alternative.
• Garlic (2 teaspoons, minced) – Adds a fundamental flavor; fresh garlic is always best.
• Chicken Broth (3 cups) – Provides body and richness; swap with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• Sugar (½ teaspoon) – Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce; can be omitted for a low-sugar option.
• Cooking Oil (3 tablespoons) – Used for sautéing; olive oil or neutral oil are great substitutes.
• Salt and Ground Black Pepper – For seasoning to taste and elevating the overall flavor.
This Chicken Afritada recipe is your ticket to a delightful family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner.
How to Make Chicken Afritada
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Heat Oil: Start by heating 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the onion is softened, about 2-3 minutes.
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Brown Chicken: Add 1 ½ lbs of chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté them for about 1 minute, ensuring they are browned on both sides for enhanced flavor.
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Combine Sauce: Pour in 8 oz of tomato sauce and 3 cups of chicken broth. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, letting it bubble joyfully as it melds the flavors together.
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Add Bay Leaves: Once boiling, add 3 bay leaves. Cover again and lower the heat to simmer for about 30 minutes, letting the chicken become tender and infused with all those wonderful flavors.
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Mix in Veggies: Stir in the sliced hotdogs (3 pieces) and carrots (1 piece), cooking for an additional 3 minutes. This will give the hotdogs that savory pop and keep the carrots vibrant.
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Incorporate Potatoes: Next, mix in the cubed potatoes (2 pieces) and cover the pot again. Cook for an additional 8 minutes until the potatoes are tender, soaking up that rich stew.
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Finish with Peas: Finally, stir in ½ cup of green peas. Cook for another 2 minutes and season to taste with salt and ground black pepper.
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Serve Warm: Serve your Chicken Afritada hot, preferably with a generous scoop of warm white rice to soak up that delightful sauce.
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Your Chicken Afritada Recipe
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Browning Chicken: Make sure to brown the chicken pieces thoroughly for enhanced flavor; this step is crucial to develop a deep taste base.
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Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce, adjust the amount of chicken broth accordingly to achieve your desired consistency in the Chicken Afritada recipe.
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Moisture Retention: Cover your pot while simmering to trap steam; this helps lock in moisture and ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender.
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Vegetable Care: Avoid overcooking vegetables, especially peas and carrots. Add them towards the end to maintain their vibrant color and crunch.
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Taste Balance: A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomato sauce; feel free to adjust this if you like a sweeter profile in your Chicken Afritada.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Afritada
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Afritada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze Chicken Afritada in an airtight container for up to 3-4 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen Afritada overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until fully heated through.
Simmering Tip: If the sauce thickens too much after freezing, simply stir in a splash of broth during reheating for that comforting, rich texture.
What to Serve with Chicken Afritada?
Nothing complements the warmth and heartiness of Chicken Afritada quite like a thoughtfully curated spread that enhances its rich flavors.
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Fluffy White Rice: The ultimate companion! Rice absorbs the delicious sauce, allowing you to savor every rich, tomato-infused bite.
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Steamed Green Beans: Their fresh crunch and bright color add a contrast that balances the stew’s creaminess and makes your plate pop.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping! The buttery, garlicky bread complements the flavors of Chicken Afritada while providing a satisfying texture to each meal.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy slaw offers a delightful crunch that can cut through the stew’s richness, creating a harmonious balance on your palate.
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Filipino Eggplant Salad: This vibrant side dish introduces grilled eggplant and a zesty dressing, providing a smoky flavor that beautifully merges with the stew.
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Banana Turon: For dessert, these caramelized banana spring rolls offer a sweet finish that contrasts with the savory afritada, leaving everyone satisfied.
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Mango Smoothie: To drink, a cool and creamy mango smoothie offers a delightful sweetness that complements the dish’s spices, quenching your thirst perfectly.
Creating a full meal around Chicken Afritada not only enhances your dining experience but also brings everyone together to relish in its comforting flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Afritada preparations are a lifesaver for busy cooks looking to save time! You can chop the vegetables (potatoes, carrots, and onions) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken can also be marinated in the tomato sauce and broth 24 hours before cooking, allowing for enhanced flavor and saving time on the day you plan to serve it. When you’re ready to eat, simply sauté the garlic and onions as instructed, add the prepped ingredients, and continue with the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting Chicken Afritada that’s just as delicious, ready to impress with minimal effort!
Chicken Afritada Variations
Explore the endless possibilities for personalizing your Chicken Afritada dish, enhancing its flavors and textures to fit your cravings.
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Pork Afritada: Swap chicken for pork shoulder to enjoy a heartier and slightly different flavor profile.
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Pineapple Chicken Afritada: Add juicy pineapple chunks to your stew for a burst of sweetness; it balances beautifully with the savory elements.
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Cheesy Chicken Afritada: Stir in a generous helping of shredded cheese towards the end for a creamy, indulgent twist that will delight cheese lovers.
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Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, toss in some sliced chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to elevate the flavor profile.
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Vegetable Boost: Add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color, nutrition, and a delightful crunch that complements the dish.
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Coconut Variation: Replace chicken broth with coconut milk for a richer and slightly sweeter stew with a tropical flair.
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic lift that brings a refreshing touch to the traditional stew.
Let your creativity soar, customizing this comforting classic to suit your family’s taste preferences and keep them coming back for more!
Chicken Afritada Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for Chicken Afritada?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, look for pieces with a fresh smell and vibrant color. If you’re opting for bone-in chicken for a richer flavor, ensure there are no dark spots or signs of freezer burn. For quicker cooking, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are excellent alternatives.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Afritada?
Definitely! Allow the Chicken Afritada to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it will keep well for 3-4 days. Make sure to label it with the date so you remember when it was made. If you plan on saving it for longer, freezing is a great choice!
Can I freeze Chicken Afritada? If so, how?
For sure! To freeze Chicken Afritada, let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Use a ladle to help pour it in without spilling. It can be frozen for up to 3-4 months. Just remember to label each container with the date. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
What should I do if my Chicken Afritada sauce is too thick?
Very well! If your sauce thickens too much during cooking or after storing, don’t worry! Just add a bit of chicken broth or water while reheating on the stovetop, stirring it in until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help bring back that comforting richness we all love.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Chicken Afritada?
Absolutely! If cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, be mindful of potential allergies, such as to garlic or soy if using certain broths. You can easily make a gluten-free version by ensuring your chicken broth is gluten-free. For a lighter take, vegetable broth can replace chicken broth without sacrificing flavor. Also, remember to check hotdog labels for any allergens if adding them to the dish.
How can I make Chicken Afritada less spicy for kids?
The more the merrier! To make Chicken Afritada kid-friendly, simply omit spices like black pepper and avoid any hotdogs that may have added heat. You can also increase the sweetness by adding extra carrots or a small pinch of sugar to balance the flavors without the spice. It’ll still be delicious and nutritious!
Savor the Flavor: Your Best Chicken Afritada Recipe Yet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating 3 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the onion is softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 1 ½ lbs of chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté them for about 1 minute, ensuring they are browned on both sides for enhanced flavor.
- Pour in 8 oz of tomato sauce and 3 cups of chicken broth. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add 3 bay leaves. Cover again and lower the heat to simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced hotdogs (3 pieces) and the carrot (1 piece), cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
- Mix in the cubed potatoes (2 pieces) and cover the pot again, cooking for an additional 8 minutes.
- Stir in ½ cup of green peas. Cook for another 2 minutes and season to taste with salt and ground black pepper.
- Serve your Chicken Afritada hot, preferably with rice.