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Homemade Chicken Afritada photo

Chicken Afritada

This Chicken Afritada is a vibrant Filipino comfort dish! A rich tomato sauce with chicken and vegetables that will warm your heart.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Afritada:
  • 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)

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chopping Board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving spoon

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken - Season the chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Sear the Chicken - In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics - In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Add the Vegetables - Toss in the sliced bell peppers, cubed potatoes, and sliced carrot. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Step 5: Create the Sauce - Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Add soy sauce, bay leaf, and sugar (if using).
  6. Step 6: Return the Chicken - Place the seared chicken back into the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Step 7: Simmer to Perfection - Cover and let simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender. Remove the lid for the last 10 minutes for a thicker sauce.
  8. Step 8: Final Touches - In the last 5 minutes, stir in the green peas. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  9. Step 9: Serve and Enjoy - Remove the bay leaf, garnish with green onions, and serve hot over steamed rice or with crusty bread.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat on low heat, adding chicken broth if needed.
  • For a richer dish, stir in coconut cream towards the end of cooking.