Recipe: Afritada Chicken - A Filipino Fiesta in Your Kitchen!
Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the Philippines? Then get ready to savor the rich and savory flavors of Afritada Chicken, a classic Filipino dish that's both comforting and incredibly delicious. This recipe breaks down the process step-by-step, ensuring even beginner cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. Let's get started!
What is Afritada Chicken?
Afritada, meaning "fried," is a Filipino stew characterized by its sweet and savory sauce, often featuring tomatoes, potatoes, and a variety of meats, most popularly chicken. This dish is a testament to Filipino cuisine's ability to blend sweet and savory notes seamlessly, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. The vibrant colors and hearty ingredients make it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (Chicken breasts work too, but thighs offer more flavor and juiciness)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until lightly browned on all sides. This step helps to develop deeper flavors. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for your stew.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add the Chicken and Vegetables: Return the seared chicken to the pot. Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Finishing Touches: Add the sliced green bell pepper during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This prevents the peppers from becoming overly soft.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Afritada Chicken hot over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Afritada Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the stew as you go and adjust the soy sauce, brown sugar, or pepper to your liking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like green beans, peas, or corn.
- Make it ahead: Afritada tastes even better the next day! Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Afritada Chicken Recipe, Filipino Food, Chicken Stew, Easy Afritada, Savory Chicken Recipe, Comfort Food, Filipino Cuisine, Sweet and Savory Recipe
This Afritada Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious and easy meals. Enjoy the flavors of the Philippines in your own kitchen! Remember to share your culinary creations using the hashtag #AfritadaChicken. Happy cooking!
