Slow-Cooked Filipino Chicken Afritada – A Hearty, Low-Calorie Classic

There’s something truly magical about slow-cooked meals. They fill the home with mouthwatering aromas, build anticipation with every passing hour, and reward patience with irresistibly tender, deeply flavorful dishes. One such timeless classic is Filipino Chicken Afritada—a comforting, tomato-based stew brimming with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a perfectly seasoned sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a dish that tells a story of home-cooked warmth, family gatherings, and the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines.

Chicken Afritada is beloved for its simple yet bold flavors, its vibrant medley of colors, and its ability to satisfy both the body and soul. Whether served over fluffy white rice or enjoyed on its own, this slow-cooked version enhances the flavors even further, allowing the chicken to soak up every ounce of the savory-sweet tomato sauce while remaining juicy and fork-tender. What’s more, this dish is naturally low in calories while being incredibly hearty, making it the perfect guilt-free comfort food.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This slow-cooked Filipino Chicken Afritada isn’t just another chicken stew. It’s an experience—one that brings warmth, nostalgia, and joy with every spoonful. Here’s why this dish deserves a spot on your regular meal rotation:

• Minimal effort, maximum flavor: Let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
• Nutritious and balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and a light tomato-based sauce.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients without compromising taste.
• Great for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.
• Authentic Filipino flavors: A true taste of home that transports you straight to the Philippines.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Afritada:

• 2 lbs (900g) bone-in, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 large carrot, cut into chunks
• 2 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 1 cup green peas
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional but recommended)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds depth of flavor. Transfer the chicken to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and slightly caramelized. This step enhances the overall richness of the dish. Add them to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Add paprika, ground black pepper, and a bay leaf for extra depth. Stir to combine and coat the chicken evenly.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and infused with the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

With about 1 hour left in the cooking process, add the potatoes and carrots. Stir gently to submerge them in the sauce. These vegetables absorb the flavors beautifully while maintaining their texture.

Step 6: Finish with Peppers and Peas

In the last 30 minutes, add the sliced bell peppers and green peas. This keeps them vibrant and slightly crisp, adding a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the bay leaf and give everything a final stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over rice and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Filipino classic.

Tips for the Best Chicken Afritada

• Use bone-in chicken for maximum flavor. The bones enrich the broth, making the sauce even more delicious.
• Brown the chicken first. This extra step enhances the dish with a deeper, caramelized taste.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables. Adding them at different stages keeps them from turning mushy.
• Customize the heat. Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili for a spicy kick.
• Make it thicker. If you prefer a richer sauce, let it simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Afritada: Add sliced chilies or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Pineapple Twist: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet-savory balance.
• Beef or Pork Version: Swap chicken for beef chunks or pork ribs for a heartier alternative.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Use tofu or chickpeas in place of chicken and add more veggies.

Serving Suggestions

• With Steamed Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• With Pandesal: Enjoy with warm Filipino bread for a delightful contrast of textures.
• As a Pasta Sauce: Toss with cooked pasta for a unique fusion dish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed.

The Bottom Line

Slow-cooked Filipino Chicken Afritada is a dish that celebrates the beauty of patience, simplicity, and rich flavors. With its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and luscious tomato sauce, this comforting meal brings warmth to every table. Whether you’re a home cook looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a party host wanting to impress, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of slow cooking transform your kitchen into a Filipino feast. Happy cooking!

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