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Chicken Afritada Recipes
Chicken Afritada: A Filipino Classic
Chicken Afritada is a beloved Filipino stew that boasts a rich, savory tomato sauce brimming with tender chicken, potatoes, and bell peppers. This dish is a staple in Filipino cuisine, known for its comforting flavors and simplicity in preparation. It’s a versatile dish that can be served on any day of the week, yet it’s special enough for festive occasions. Below is a step-by-step guide to making Chicken Afritada at home, including essential tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks work well)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Peas (optional, for added color and texture)
- Bay leaves (optional, for added aroma)
Instructions:
- Brown the Chicken: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then fry until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the garlic and onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Create the Sauce: Add the tomato sauce and chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine. If you’re using sugar and bay leaves, add them here. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Chicken: Return the chicken to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is almost fully cooked.
- Add Vegetables: Add the potatoes and carrots to the pot. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Finish with Bell Peppers: Add the red and green bell peppers (and peas if using) to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the bell peppers are just tender but still vibrant.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. The sauce should be a harmonious blend of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy.
- Serve: Serve your Chicken Afritada hot with steamed rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Afritada:
- Chicken Parts: Using bone-in chicken pieces adds more flavor to the stew, but you can use boneless pieces if preferred.
- Searing Chicken: Browning the chicken not only improves its texture but also adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish.
- Simmering: Keep the stew at a gentle simmer to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender.
- Fresh vs. Canned Tomato Sauce: While canned tomato sauce offers convenience, you can also use fresh tomatoes that are blended until smooth if you prefer a fresher taste.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Afritada is best served with steamed white rice, which complements the rich, savory flavors of the stew. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.