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Filipino Chicken Afritada

Chicken Afritada Recipe for Filipinos Living Abroad

Chicken Afritada is a comforting Filipino tomato-based stew made with chicken, potatoes, carrots, bell peppers, and green peas. This version uses ingredients commonly available in international supermarkets, making it easier for Filipinos abroad to recreate the familiar taste of home.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 person
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2.2 lbs chicken parts drumstick, wings, etc.
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil
  • 2 pcs medium potatoes peeled and cut into large cubes
  • 1 pc large carrot peeled and sliced
  • 1 pc medium onion chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pc red bell pepper sliced
  • 1/2 cup frozen green peas
  • 1 can 15oz tomato sauce
  • 3 leaves dried bayleaves
  • 1 1/2 cup water
  • 2 pcs chicken bouillon cube
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp msg (vetsin) optional
  • fish sauce / salt to taste
Optional (add them at the end)
  • 1/2 cup sliced hot dogs
  • 1/2 cup grated cheese
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1 small can liver spread

Instructions
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent it from burning.
  4. Add the onion to the same pot and cook for 2 to 3 mins, or until softened.
  5. Add the remaining 1 tbsp cooking oil to the same pot.
  6. Place the chicken pieces skin-side down and cook/sear for 4 to 5 mins on each side, or until lightly browned.
    7. For a flavorful sauce, cook/sear the chicken separately first, then remove from the pan and set aside before sautéing the garlic and the onion.
  7. Pour in the water, add the chicken bouillon and sugar, bring to a boil, then simmer until the chicken is cooked and tender.
  8. Add the tomato sauce, the potatoes, carrots and bay leaves. Cover and continue cooking for 10 mins, or until the vegetables are tender.
  9. Stir well, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pot to add more flavor to the sauce.
  10. Add the bell pepper and green peas.
  11. Cook uncovered for another 3 mins. or until the bell pepper is slightly tender but still colorful.
  12. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional water, fish sauce, salt, black pepper, or sugar as needed.
  13. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Notes

Recipe Notes

Chicken Options
Chicken parts like wings and drumsticks give the sauce more flavor. Boneless chicken thighs may also be used.
Tomato Sauce Substitutes
If Filipino-style tomato sauce is unavailable, use regular canned tomato sauce. Crushed tomatoes may also be used, although the sauce will have a slightly chunkier texture.
Fish Sauce Substitute
Fish sauce gives Afritada a familiar, savory Filipino flavor. If it is unavailable, use 1 tbsp soy sauce or season the dish with additional salt.
Bell Pepper Options
Red bell pepper adds sweetness and color, but green, yellow, or orange bell peppers will also work.
Green Peas
Frozen or canned green peas are convenient and widely available abroad. Add them near the end of cooking so they remain bright and do not become mushy.
For a Thicker Sauce
Simmer the Afritada uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 mins. the potatoes and tomato sauce will naturally thicken the sauce.  
Or if the sauce is too thin, mix 1/2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water until smooth. Pour the mixture into the pan near the end of cooking while stirring continuously. Simmer for 1 to 2 mins, or until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. You may need to adjust the taste.