Table of Contents
Chicken Afritada is a classic Filipino dish known for its hearty and flavorful tomato-based sauce. It combines tender chicken pieces with vegetables, simmered to perfection. This dish is perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 kg chicken, cut into serving pieces
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes
- 2 potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup green peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: hot sauce or fish sauce for added flavor
Cooking Instructions
Start by heating the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
Next, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften. Pour in the tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes, stirring well. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the rich tomato flavor.
Once the chicken is tender, add the potatoes and carrots. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are cooked through. Add the sliced bell pepper and green peas, cooking for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If desired, add a splash of fish sauce or hot sauce to enhance the flavor. Serve hot with steamed rice for a complete Filipino meal.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Afritada
- Use fresh tomatoes for a more authentic taste.
- Adjust the amount of tomato sauce according to your preferred level of richness.
- Simmer gently to keep the chicken tender and flavorful.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans or corn.
This Filipino-style Chicken Afritada is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of the Philippines to your table. Enjoy cooking and sharing this delicious meal with loved ones!