Chicken Afritada is a classic Filipino dish with Spanish influences. It features tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce with carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. This hearty dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, making it a staple for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons oil
1 large carrot, cubed
1 large potato, cubed
3 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium red or green bell pepper
1 ½ cups tomato sauce
1 ½ cups water
2 pounds chicken drumsticks or wings
Salt to taste
¼ cup potted meat (optional)
¼ cup processed cheese, grated (e.g., Kraft or Velveeta)

Directions:

Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the carrots and potatoes until lightly browned at the edges, then set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- In the same skillet, sear the chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
- Using the same skillet, sauté garlic and onions until aromatic and softened.
Simmer the Sauce:
- Add tomato sauce and 1 cup of water to the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, add an additional ¼ to ½ cup of water, and season with salt. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce is thickened.
Incorporate Final Ingredients:
- Stir in the fried potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, butter, potted meat, and grated cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Serve:
- Serve warm with steamed rice.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 100 kcal
Servings: 8 servings

Enjoy this delicious Filipino comfort food!

Chicken Afritada: A Hearty Filipino Comfort Food

Chicken Afritada is one of the quintessential dishes in Filipino cuisine, offering a rich medley of flavors and a comforting appeal that brings families together around the dining table. With its origins steeped in Spanish culinary influences, this dish showcases the Philippines’ ability to adapt foreign recipes and imbue them with a distinct local character. Known for its tender chicken pieces, creamy tomato-based sauce, and vibrant vegetables, Chicken Afritada is a versatile dish beloved by many.

A Culinary Fusion of Cultures

The Philippines, having been colonized by Spain for over three centuries, has absorbed numerous culinary practices and recipes from its colonial past. Chicken Afritada is one such example, bearing resemblance to Spanish tomato-based stews like caldereta and mechado. However, Filipinos have adapted the recipe to suit local tastes and ingredients, creating a dish that feels both international and inherently Filipino.

Unlike its Spanish predecessors, which often use wine or olives, Chicken Afritada employs accessible pantry staples such as tomato sauce, potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. The addition of optional ingredients like processed cheese or potted meat—a touch that reflects modern Filipino culinary creativity—brings a creamy, savory depth to the dish.

A Feast for the Senses

Chicken Afritada is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of colors, textures, and aromas. The combination of tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and vibrant vegetables creates a visually appealing dish that delights the palate. Here’s a closer look at its sensory appeal:

Visual Appeal: The bright red sauce, enhanced by the tomato base, is contrasted beautifully with golden-brown potatoes, orange carrots, and green or red bell peppers. This colorful medley is a feast for the eyes and a sign of the dish’s nutritional richness.
Texture: Each component of Chicken Afritada brings a unique texture. The chicken, simmered to perfection, is juicy and tender. Meanwhile, the potatoes and carrots provide a hearty bite, and the sauce ties everything together with its creamy consistency.
Flavor Profile: The tomato-based sauce offers a balanced tanginess that is mellowed by the richness of butter and optional cheese. Subtle sweetness from the vegetables complements the savory depth of the chicken, creating a harmonious flavor that is both comforting and satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the many reasons Chicken Afritada has stood the test of time in Filipino households is its versatility. It can easily transition from a casual weeknight dinner to a centerpiece dish for special occasions. Whether served on a rainy day to warm the soul or during a festive gathering, this dish never fails to please.

Paired with steamed white rice—a staple in Filipino cuisine—Chicken Afritada becomes a complete meal. The rice soaks up the rich tomato sauce, ensuring every grain bursts with flavor. It’s a dish that encourages communal dining, where family and friends can bond over shared plates and lively conversations.

Regional and Personal Variations

Like many traditional Filipino dishes, Chicken Afritada has evolved over time, with each family or region adding its own spin to the recipe. Some households include green peas or pineapple chunks for added sweetness, while others may opt for a spicier version by incorporating chili peppers. The addition of processed cheese and potted meat is a relatively modern twist, showcasing how contemporary Filipino cooking blends traditional methods with global influences.

These variations highlight the adaptability of the dish and its capacity to reflect the personality of the cook. Whether it’s a grandmother’s closely guarded recipe or a modern take shared on food blogs, Chicken Afritada continues to evolve while retaining its essence.

Nutritional Value and Comfort

Chicken Afritada is not only delicious but also provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. The inclusion of vegetables such as carrots and potatoes adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while chicken offers a lean source of protein. The tomato-based sauce is rich in antioxidants, thanks to the lycopene in tomatoes, which is believed to promote heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Despite its hearty nature, Chicken Afritada is a relatively balanced dish, making it a guilt-free indulgence for those looking for comfort food that aligns with their health goals.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your Chicken Afritada turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

Searing the Chicken: Browning the chicken before simmering enhances its flavor by creating a caramelized outer layer.
Balancing the Sauce: If the tomato sauce tastes too acidic, a small pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors.
Vegetable Preparation: Lightly frying the potatoes and carrots before adding them to the stew prevents them from becoming overly soft or mushy during simmering.
Customizing Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste—whether that means adding more cheese for creaminess or incorporating additional spices for heat.

Conclusion

Chicken Afritada stands as a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. Its harmonious blend of Spanish influences and Filipino ingenuity makes it a dish that resonates with tradition and modernity. Loved for its comforting flavors and heartwarming appeal, it is a staple that bridges generations and brings people together around the table.

Whether you’re exploring Filipino cuisine for the first time or looking to recreate a family favorite, Chicken Afritada offers an accessible yet deeply satisfying culinary experience. It’s a dish that invites creativity while remaining rooted in tradition—a perfect embodiment of the Philippines’ vibrant food culture.

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Chicken Afritada