There’s something about the rich, tangy aroma of Filipino Chicken Afritada that instantly wraps you in comfort and warmth. After a long day craving a home-cooked meal that’s both hearty and full of vibrant flavors, this recipe never fails to deliver. Tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato sauce with potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers creates a colorful, satisfying dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just eager to escape fast food rut, this Afritada blends familiar ingredients into a crowd-pleasing classic you’ll want to make again and again. Let me show you how easy it is to bring a taste of the Philippines to your kitchen tonight!
Why choose Filipino Chicken Afritada?
Comfort food classic: Filipino Chicken Afritada marries tender chicken with a vibrant tomato sauce that warms your soul. Simple Prep: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, it’s perfect for busy cooks craving homemade meals. Versatile dish: Swap veggies or adjust spice levels to suit your taste. Rich, balanced flavors: The tangy-sweet sauce pairs beautifully with hearty potatoes and carrots. Crowd-pleaser: This colorful dish looks as good as it tastes, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Filipino Chicken Afritada Ingredients
For the Chicken Stew
- Chicken pieces – Use bone-in for juicier, more flavorful meat in your Filipino Chicken Afritada.
- Tomato sauce – The rich base that gives Afritada its distinctive tangy and sweet flavor.
- Potatoes – Chunky cuts hold up well and soak up the savory tomato goodness.
- Carrots – Add natural sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the dish.
- Bell peppers – Red or green, sliced for a crisp, fresh contrast in texture.
- Onions – Sautéed to deepen the sauce’s flavor profile.
- Garlic – Essential aromatic that infuses warm, savory notes throughout.
For Seasoning & Flavor
- Soy sauce – Balances the tomato’s acidity with a salty, umami punch.
- Bay leaves – Add subtle earthiness for a more complex stew.
- Sugar – Just a pinch to enhance the natural sweetness of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, balancing all flavors perfectly.
Optional Add-ons
- Green peas – A pop of color and slight sweetness that complements the texture.
- Pineapple chunks – For a tropical twist that adds a burst of tang and sweetness.
How to Make Filipino Chicken Afritada
For the Chicken Stew:
- Heat oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes, prepping for that beautiful golden sear on your chicken pieces.
- Brown chicken: Season 1½ pounds of chicken pieces with salt and pepper, brown skin-side down for 4–5 minutes until golden, then flip and cook another 2 minutes for juicy meat.
- Sauté aromatics: Add 1 diced onion and 4 minced garlic cloves; cook until onions soften and turn translucent, stirring for about 2 minutes to build that fragrant, savory base.
- Add sauce and seasoning: Pour in 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, bay leaves, and a pinch of sugar. Stir gently to combine, letting flavors marry for 1 minute.
- Simmer stew: Cover and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. This gentle bubble infuses the chicken with rich, tangy flavors and tenderizes meat to perfection.
- Cook veggies: Add 2 cups diced potatoes and 1 cup sliced carrots. Stir, cover, and cook for another 10 minutes until veggies are fork-tender, soaking up the luscious tomato sauce.
- Finish with peppers: Stir in 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red or green) and optional green peas. Cook uncovered for 3 minutes until peppers are crisp-tender and colors shine.
Optional: Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions for a fresh, aromatic pop.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Filipino Chicken Afritada?
The vibrant flavors of this traditional dish invite a beautiful array of sides and drinks to complete your meal.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice soaks up the rich tomato sauce, balancing the dish with its neutral flavor and perfect texture.
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Garlic Fried Rice: Infused with aromatic garlic, this rice adds an extra layer of flavor and complements the savory chicken Afritada beautifully.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Crisp veggies like bok choy or broccoli provide a fresh crunch and a healthy dose of greens to round out the meal.
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Crispy Eggplant: Lightly battered and fried, eggplant offers a delightful texture contrast, bringing a touch of richness to your plate.
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Pickled Cucumber Salad: The acidity of pickled cucumbers brightens the heaviness of the stew, refreshing your palate with every bite.
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Banana Lumpia: These sweet, fried spring rolls filled with ripe bananas can serve as a delightful dessert that continues the Filipino flavor theme.
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Tropical Fruit Shake: A refreshing mango or pineapple shake adds a lovely sweetness and pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the chicken.
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Lemonade or Calamansi Juice: These citrus drinks provide a refreshing zing that both cleanses the palate and accents the rich flavors of Afritada.
Each option enhances the unity of textures and flavors while transforming your dinner into an unforgettable family feast!
Variations & Substitutions for Filipino Chicken Afritada
Feel free to explore these creative twists to make Filipino Chicken Afritada truly your own and savor its deliciousness your way!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of tomato sauce for a creamy, tropical flair that adds a rich taste. It’s a delightful twist that will surprise your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes while cooking for a flavorful heat that enhances the dish’s depth without overpowering it.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with hearty eggplant or tofu, simmered until tender in the same flavorful sauce. It’s a satisfying way to enjoy Afritada without meat.
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Sweet and Sour: Toss in pineapple chunks along with the veggies for a sweet and tangy delight that contrasts beautifully with the savory tomato sauce.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or cilantro can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for an herbaceous lift that brightens the entire flavor profile.
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Root Veggies Twist: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes or parsnips to add a subtle sweetness and a unique texture that complements the traditional ingredients.
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Nutty Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil during cooking for a warm, nutty aroma that elevates the overall flavor experience.
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Rich Flavor: A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar added while simmering can deepen the flavor profile, offering a distinct richness you’ll adore.
Expert Tips for Filipino Chicken Afritada
- Use bone-in chicken: Bone-in pieces keep the meat juicy and flavorful while simmering, avoiding dryness common with boneless cuts.
- Brown the chicken well: Don’t rush browning; a golden crust adds depth to the stew’s flavor and a beautiful color to the sauce.
- Simmer gently: Keep the heat low when simmering to tenderize the chicken evenly without toughening the meat.
- Cut veggies uniformly: Even-sized potatoes and carrots ensure everything cooks through at the same rate for perfect texture.
- Add peppers last: Toss bell peppers in near the end to retain their crispness and vibrant color in your Filipino Chicken Afritada.
- Balance seasoning carefully: Taste as you go to harmonize the tangy tomato and savory soy sauce without overpowering the dish.
How to Store and Freeze Filipino Chicken Afritada
Fridge: Store leftover Filipino Chicken Afritada in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, which helps maintain the dish’s delightful textures and flavors.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Filipino Chicken Afritada make ahead options save you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prep the chicken and vegetable mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply brown the chicken, sauté the onions and garlic, and then combine them with the sauce and seasonings. Once cooled, refrigerate the stew components in an airtight container until you’re ready to finish cooking. The next day, just add the potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers to the prepped stew, simmer until everything is heated through, and enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort. This way, you’ll have a homestyle dish that’s just as delicious and satisfying without any fuss!
Filipino Chicken Afritada Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken pieces are good for Afritada?
Choose chicken with skin-on and bone-in for juicier, more flavorful meat. Fresh chicken should have a pinkish color without dark spots or unpleasant odor.
What’s the best way to store leftover Filipino Chicken Afritada?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and allows the tomato sauce to deepen its richness.
Can I freeze Filipino Chicken Afritada? If so, how long does it last?
Absolutely! Portion the cooled Afritada into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove for best texture and flavor.
My sauce tastes too tangy—how can I fix it?
No worries! Add a pinch of sugar slowly while tasting until the balance feels just right. You can also stir in a little more soy sauce for umami. Adjust seasonings gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.
Is Filipino Chicken Afritada safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid sharing this dish with pets as the tomato sauce, onions, garlic, and seasonings like soy sauce can upset their digestive system and may be toxic. Stick to pet-safe treats instead!
The Best Filipino Chicken Afritada Recipe: Juicy, Bold & Easy!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season 1½ pounds of chicken pieces with salt and pepper, brown skin-side down for 4–5 minutes until golden, then flip and cook another 2 minutes.
- Add 1 diced onion and 4 minced garlic cloves; cook until onions soften and turn translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, bay leaves, and a pinch of sugar. Stir gently to combine, letting flavors marry for 1 minute.
- Cover and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Add 2 cups diced potatoes and 1 cup sliced carrots, stir, cover, and cook for another 10 minutes until veggies are fork-tender.
- Stir in 1 cup sliced bell peppers and optional green peas. Cook uncovered for 3 minutes until peppers are crisp-tender.
