Easy Filipino Chicken Caldereta – A Spicy, Flavor-Packed Delight

Chicken Caldereta is a beloved Filipino dish known for its rich, savory, and slightly spicy tomato-based sauce infused with deep, hearty flavors. Traditionally made with beef or goat, this version featuring tender chicken is a quicker, more accessible take on the classic. Packed with vibrant vegetables, creamy liver spread, and a medley of bold spices, Chicken Caldereta is the perfect dish to warm your soul and impress your guests. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this easy-to-follow recipe will make you fall in love with Filipino cuisine all over again.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Chicken Caldereta recipe brings together incredible flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any home cook. The slow-simmered tomato sauce clings perfectly to succulent chicken pieces, creating an irresistibly rich and comforting dish. You’ll love the depth of umami brought by the liver spread, balanced beautifully by the natural sweetness of bell peppers and carrots. Plus, it’s a forgiving recipe—you can adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients based on what you have, and even make it ahead of time. The best part? It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making every bite a delight.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900g) chicken, cut into serving pieces
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• 2 tbsp liver spread or pâté (optional but recommended)
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup green peas
• 1 small can (150g) pineapple chunks (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt, or to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1-2 pcs bay leaves
• 1 small red chili (optional, for extra heat)
• ½ cup grated cheese (cheddar or quick-melt cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the vegetables and slice the chicken into serving-size pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the onions finely. Having everything ready makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and adds a layer of flavor to the dish. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, sauté the onions until they turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. This combination creates the perfect flavor base for the sauce.

Step 4: Build the Flavorful Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen the flavors. Then, pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Add the bay leaves, paprika, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. If you’re adding liver spread, mix it in now for extra depth and creaminess.

Step 5: Simmer the Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the pan and stir well to coat each piece in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the diced potatoes and carrots first, as they take longer to cook. Let them simmer for 10 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the bell peppers, green peas, and pineapple chunks (if using). Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Final Touches

Sprinkle in the grated cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a chopped red chili at this stage.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Turn off the heat and let the Caldereta rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve it hot over steamed rice and enjoy this comforting, flavor-packed Filipino dish.

Tips for the Best Chicken Caldereta

• Use bone-in chicken for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Brown the chicken well before simmering to develop deeper flavors.
• Don’t skip the liver spread, as it adds a signature richness to the dish.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more chilies if you like it hotter.
• Simmer slowly to let the flavors fully develop and meld together.

Creative Variations

• Creamier Caldereta – Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamier twist.
• Healthier Option – Use lean chicken breast and reduce the cheese.
• Seafood Caldereta – Swap chicken for shrimp and squid for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Caldereta – Use tofu and mushrooms instead of meat for a plant-based version.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Caldereta is best enjoyed with steamed white rice, but you can also pair it with:

• Garlic fried rice for extra flavor
• A side of buttered vegetables
• A crisp green salad to balance the richness
• Warm crusty bread for soaking up the sauce

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze Caldereta in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Caldereta is the ultimate Filipino comfort food, packed with rich, hearty flavors that make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or a long-time fan, this easy recipe will win over your taste buds. With its bold flavors, tender chicken, and creamy tomato sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Try this recipe today and bring the warmth of Filipino home cooking to your table!

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Also Read:

23 Irresistible Chicken Recipes for Dinner – Light, Healthy, and Delicious