Chicken Afritada is a classic Filipino dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table. With tender chunks of chicken simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce, combined with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes, this dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The combination of savory spices and the natural sweetness of the vegetables creates a delightful balance that is sure to entice your taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying it with rice or on its own, Chicken Afritada is a satisfying meal that resonates with the heart and soul of Filipino cuisine.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Chicken Afritada recipe for several reasons. Firstly, its flavor profile is a harmonious blend of savory tomato, tender chicken, and sweet vegetables, making it a delightful dish for all palates. Secondly, it is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills while delivering maximum taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe fits seamlessly into a variety of lifestyles—it’s hearty yet balanced, making it a go-to for comfort food lovers and health-conscious eaters alike.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate your chicken pieces in soy sauce and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your dish. Look for firm potatoes and bright bell peppers.
- Control the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer without the lid to reduce the liquid.
- Add a Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a sliced chili or some red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare several components of Chicken Afritada in advance. Chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before, storing them in the refrigerator. The dish can also be fully cooked ahead of time and refrigerated; it stays fresh for up to three days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Use pork or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add other vegetables like green peas, corn, or even green beans for added nutrition.
- Coconut Twist: For a richer, creamier version, stir in some coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate spicy sausage or add more peppers to elevate the heat level.
How to Serve
To serve Chicken Afritada, ladle generous portions over a bed of steaming white rice, which helps soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. For an authentic touch, serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Afritada with a refreshing drink like a cold glass of iced tea or a light lager beer. For a more sophisticated touch, a medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot, complements the tomato sauce beautifully. As for sides, consider serving it with garlic fried rice or a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. For dessert, a slice of leche flan or a bowl of fresh fruit will round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, you can freeze Chicken Afritada in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stove, adding a bit of water if needed to keep it moist.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need a large skillet or a Dutch oven to cook the chicken and sauce thoroughly. A wooden spoon for stirring and a sharp knife for chopping vegetables are also essential. If you prefer a slow cooker, you can adapt the recipe to cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Dietary Adaptations
To make Chicken Afritada vegan-friendly, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For those with gluten sensitivities, ensure you are using gluten-free soy sauce. Additionally, you can swap out any vegetables based on your dietary needs, ensuring the dish remains flavorful and enjoyable.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, take advantage of fresh tomatoes and peppers for a vibrant, flavorful dish. In the winter, consider using canned tomatoes for convenience, along with hearty root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips, which hold up well in the sauce.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and will yield a tender result.
- How do I make it spicier? Add fresh chili peppers during cooking or a dash of hot sauce at the end.
- What if I don’t have bell peppers? You can substitute with any other firm vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
- How long does it take to cook? The total cooking time is about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Chicken Afritada recipe
Chicken Afritada is a classic Filipino dish that brings comfort and warmth to any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken (legs, thighs, or breasts), cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce and minced garlic. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the marinated chicken and sear until lightly browned.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release their juices.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Add the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Finish with Bell Peppers: After 20 minutes, add the sliced bell pepper and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Serve hot over rice, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 463Total Fat: 25gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 143mgSodium: 623mgCarbohydrates: 20gFiber: 3gSugar: 4gProtein: 40g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Afritada is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of Filipino home cooking. Its combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and rich sauce makes it a fulfilling meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to bring smiles and satisfaction to your table. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by experimenting with variations and serving styles. Happy cooking!
