Name: Chicken Afritada
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in and skin-on); Salt and pepper ((to taste)); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion ((chopped)); 4 cloves garlic ((minced)); 1 medium red bell pepper ((sliced)); 1 medium green bell pepper ((sliced)); 2 medium potatoes ((peeled and cut into cubes)); 1 large carrot ((peeled and sliced)); 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup chicken broth ((low sodium, or no sodium added)); 1 tablespoon soy sauce ((low sodium)); 1 teaspoon sugar ((optional, for sweetness)); 1 cup green peas ((frozen or fresh)); 2 green onions (chopped) ((for garnish))

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Chicken Afritada is a comforting dish that beautifully showcases the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine. This hearty stew combines chicken, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With its colorful presentation and delightful taste, Chicken Afritada is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Top Reasons to Make Chicken Afritada

Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and savory sauce creates a dish that warms the soul.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious meal.
Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Chicken Afritada stores well, making it great for leftovers or batch cooking.
Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it a fantastic option for family dinners.

Ingredient Checklist

2 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in and skin-on)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion (chopped)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 medium red bell pepper (sliced)
1 medium green bell pepper (sliced)
2 medium potatoes (peeled and cut into cubes)
1 large carrot (peeled and sliced)
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium, or no sodium added)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for sweetness)
1 cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Equipment at a Glance

Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the afritada and allowing the flavors to meld together.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the ingredients without scratching your pot.
Chopping board and knife: Essential for preparing your vegetables and chicken.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Serving spoon: To dish out the delicious Chicken Afritada.

From Start to Finish: Chicken Afritada

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the meat as it cooks.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your Chicken Afritada.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers, cubed potatoes, and sliced carrot. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Add the soy sauce, bay leaf, and sugar (if using) for added flavor.

Step 6: Return the Chicken

Carefully place the seared chicken back into the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the pot and let the Chicken Afritada simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This allows the chicken to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you like a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Step 8: Final Touches

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the green peas. They will add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is tender and the sauce is flavorful, remove the bay leaf and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

Seasonal Vegetables: In spring, add asparagus or snap peas. In fall, consider adding butternut squash for a sweet touch.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut cream towards the end for a rich, creamy texture.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic twist.

What I Learned Testing

While testing this Chicken Afritada recipe, I discovered the importance of layering flavors. Searing the chicken before adding the vegetables creates a deeper, richer taste. Additionally, adjusting the seasoning throughout cooking helps achieve a well-balanced dish. I also learned that letting the chicken simmer longer makes it incredibly tender and allows the sauce to develop a wonderful complexity.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Chicken Afritada is a fantastic dish for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Enjoy this comforting meal for days to come!

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken for Chicken Afritada?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but keep in mind it may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with Chicken Afritada?

Chicken Afritada pairs beautifully with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with a side of salad for a refreshing contrast.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.

Can I make Chicken Afritada in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

Time to Try It

Chicken Afritada is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the family together. This delightful dish is waiting to fill your kitchen with its aromatic goodness and your hearts with joy. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delicious culinary adventure!