Chicken Afritada, a beloved Filipino dish, brings comfort and joy to any dining table with its robust flavors and heart-warming appeal. This classic recipe is characterized by its tender chicken pieces, simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce alongside vegetables. If you're eager to craft an authentic Chicken Afritada, here are five easy steps to guide you through the process:
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking process, ensure you have the following ingredients ready:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, or fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup of water or chicken broth
- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of fish sauce (optional but adds depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of frozen peas (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional for a hint of sweetness)
🥄 Note: Using fresh tomatoes versus canned can alter the texture and sweetness of the Afritada, choose based on your preference for richness or lighter taste.
Step 1: Preparing and Browning the Chicken
Start by washing the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary until they are nicely browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 2: Sauteing Aromatics and Building Flavor
In the same pot, lower the heat to medium. If needed, add a bit more oil, then sauté the onions until translucent, about 2 minutes. Add the garlic, cooking until fragrant, roughly 1 minute.
Now, introduce the tomatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic. The mixture should start to release its juices, helping to lift any brown bits from the chicken off the pan’s base for extra flavor.
Step 3: Simmering and Adding Ingredients
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in the water or chicken broth, soy sauce, and if using, fish sauce. Stir well, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender.
Add the potatoes and carrots, mixing them into the sauce. Cover again and continue cooking for another 10 minutes or until the vegetables are fork-tender but not mushy.
Step 4: Final Touches with Bell Peppers
Once the potatoes and carrots are done, toss in the sliced bell peppers. They should only cook for a few minutes to retain their crispness and vibrant color. If you’re using peas, add them at this point as well.
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and if desired, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 5: Serving Your Chicken Afritada
Once the Afritada is ready, you can choose to garnish with a little chopped parsley or green onions for a touch of freshness. Serve hot over a bed of steamed white rice, which is perfect for absorbing the savory sauce.
🍽 Note: Chicken Afritada pairs wonderfully with garlic fried rice or even mashed potatoes for a different twist on a classic meal.
In crafting this authentic Chicken Afritada, the blend of flavors captures the essence of Filipino home cooking. From the initial browning of the chicken to the subtle sweetness added at the end, each step builds upon the last to create a dish that's both comforting and delicious. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this recipe ensures that everyone will leave the table satisfied and eager for seconds.
Can I substitute chicken with another meat?
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Yes, Chicken Afritada can be made with pork, beef, or even seafood like shrimp or fish. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different meats.
What if I don’t have fish sauce?
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If you can’t find fish sauce, you can use a bit of Worcestershire sauce or extra soy sauce to give a similar depth of umami flavor.
Is Chicken Afritada gluten-free?
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By default, Chicken Afritada can be gluten-free if prepared without soy sauce or substituting it with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
