Chicken Afritada Recipe

If you are craving a hearty, comforting Filipino classic that delivers layers of rich tomato flavor balanced by tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, this Chicken Afritada Recipe is the perfect dish to try. It’s a one-pot meal that brings together the warmth of slow-simmered tomatoes, the earthiness of potatoes and carrots, and the brightness of bell peppers and peas—all wrapped up in juicy, flavorful chicken pieces. Chicken Afritada is more than just dinner; it’s a celebration of everyday ingredients transformed into a saucy, satisfying experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity with straightforward, everyday ingredients that each play a pivotal role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. The harmonious blend of vegetables and seasonings brings out a hearty richness that is essential for authentic afritada.

• 4 tablespoons oil, divided: Ensures a nice sear on the vegetables and chicken without sticking to the pot.
• 1 large potato, peeled and cut into chunks: Adds a starchy, tender component that softens perfectly during cooking.
• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks: Brings sweetness and a contrasting texture to the dish.
• Salt, to taste: Enhances the natural flavors of all ingredients.
• Pepper, to taste: Adds a subtle kick and warmth in the final dish.
• 1 large onion, diced: Provides a subtle, savory base aroma when sautéed.
• 5-6 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Infuses the dish with essential aromatic depth.
• 2.5 pounds chicken (bone-in, skin on thighs and drumsticks): The star protein, delivering moistness and rich flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce: Adds umami and a hint of saltiness to deepen the sauce flavors.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Balances the tanginess of tomatoes with a gentle savory note.
• 8oz tomato sauce: The main body of the sauce, giving it that classic, bright red color.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 2 cups chicken stock: Adds moisture and enriches the sauce with savory notes.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Smooths the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the flavor.
• ½-1 teaspoon red chili flakes: Offers a gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
• 2 bay leaves: Provide subtle herbal undertones that elevate the aromatic profile.
• 1 cup frozen peas: Add a pop of color and freshness towards the end of cooking.
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks: Gives a crisp bite and vibrant green color.
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks: Adds sweetness and a rich red hue for presentation.

How to Make Chicken Afritada Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Vegetables

Begin by heating half of your oil in a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the potatoes and carrots, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Let them cook until their edges develop a gorgeous light golden color. This simple step ensures your veggies keep their shape later and adds subtle caramelized flavor that’s key to a memorable afritada.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the potatoes and carrots and set them aside, then add the rest of the oil to the pot. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Stir in the finely chopped garlic, allowing its fragrance to fill your kitchen—this aromatic combo sets the foundational flavors for the dish.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Next, nestle the chicken pieces into the pot with the aromatics. Season with salt, pepper, fish sauce, and soy sauce, making sure to coat every piece well to marry the flavors. Let the chicken brown evenly for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step locks in juices and gives a deeper, richer taste.

Step 4: Add the Tomato Base

Pour in the tomato sauce and stir in the tomato paste, ensuring each chicken piece is bathed in the vibrant red sauce. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes so the tomato flavors thicken and have a chance to fully permeate the chicken.

Step 5: Simmer with Stock and Spices

Pour in the chicken stock, then add sugar, chili flakes, and bay leaves. Carefully return the sautéed potatoes and carrots to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 35 to 40 minutes. This slow simmer transforms the sauce into a rich, luscious stew and tenderizes the chicken beautifully.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Veggies

As the dish nears completion, add peas, and the green and red bell pepper chunks. Let it simmer a bit longer uncovered until the bell peppers soften slightly and the sauce thickens to your preferred consistency. This last addition guarantees a pop of freshness and color that lifts the entire dish.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Give your afritada a final taste, adjusting salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot and steaming alongside fluffy white rice to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.

How to Serve Chicken Afritada Recipe

Garnishes

The beauty of Chicken Afritada is in its simplicity, but a few touches can add an extra layer of flavor and presentation. Freshly chopped parsley or green onions sprinkled on top provide a burst of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich tomato sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or long-grain white rice, which absorbs the tangy, savory sauce perfectly. For a heartier meal, serve with garlic fried rice or even a side of sautéed greens to add extra nutrients and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Chicken Afritada over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. Alternatively, dish it out in individual rustic pots for a cozy, family-style presentation that also helps keep the dish warm and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Afritada flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making leftovers just as delightful. Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

If you want to keep leftovers longer, this recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled afritada into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. The flavors hold up well, making it perfect for busy days when you need a ready-to-go meal.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to rewarm evenly and preserve the chicken’s tenderness and the sauce’s richness.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this Chicken Afritada Recipe?

Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks are ideal for flavor and tenderness, you can use chicken breasts or a whole cut-up chicken depending on your preference. Just adjust cooking time to avoid drying out white meat cuts.

Is it possible to make Chicken Afritada Recipe spicier?

Yes! You can increase the amount of red chili flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers while cooking. Just be mindful to adjust according to your heat tolerance to keep the flavors balanced.

Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for the tomato sauce and paste?

Fresh tomatoes can be used but expect a slightly different texture and flavor. You’ll need to cook them down longer to achieve the rich, thick sauce that afritada is known for, so using tomato sauce and paste is a shortcut that delivers consistent results.

What is the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too watery?

Simmering uncovered allows the sauce to reduce naturally and thicken. If time is tight, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in gradually to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this Chicken Afritada Recipe?

Definitely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and add some soy sauce or fish sauce alternatives for depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly something magical about the hearty, saucy goodness of this Chicken Afritada Recipe that makes it a beloved favorite across many kitchens. The layers of flavor, from tender chicken to vibrant veggies in a rich tomato base, promise to satisfy any craving for comfort food. I encourage you to gather the simple ingredients, take your time through each step, and enjoy the warm, delicious results. Happy cooking!

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