Chicken Afritada – Comforting Tomato-Stewed Chicken for Lunch or Dinner

---

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our Affiliate Disclosure for more information.

---

What is Chicken Afritada?

Chicken Afritada is a classic Filipino tomato-based stew where tender chicken pieces are simmered in a rich, savory sauce along with potatoes, carrots, and other familiar add-ins.

The dish is known for its bright red color, comforting aroma, and hearty texture. In many Filipino homes, Chicken Afritada is a dependable ulam—simple enough for everyday meals but satisfying enough to serve to family and guests.

Why Masarap?

Masarap ito dahil sa balance ng flavors. The tomato sauce gives a mild tang, the chicken broth adds depth, and the chicken slowly absorbs all that sarap habang niluluto. Soft potatoes, slightly sweet carrots, and green peas round out the dish, while bay leaves add that subtle bango na talagang nakakagana sa kanin.

Best Enjoyed For

This Chicken Afritada dish is best enjoyed for lunch or dinner, especially when served fresh and hot with steaming rice.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs chicken, cut into serving pieces
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 3 dried bay leaves
• 3 hotdogs, sliced
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 carrot, sliced
• ½ cup green peas
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

How to Cook Chicken Afritada

1. Heat the cooking oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until aromatic and softened.
2. Add the chicken pieces and let them cook briefly on one side before turning to lightly sear the other side.
3. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, making sure the chicken is mostly submerged. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Add the bay leaves, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer over medium heat until the chicken is tender and flavorful.
5. Add the sliced hotdogs and carrots, then cook until the carrots begin to soften.
6. Stir in the cubed potatoes, cover again, and continue cooking until the potatoes are fork-tender.
7. Add the green peas and cook briefly until heated through.
8. Season with salt, ground black pepper, and sugar to balance the flavors before turning off the heat.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Afritada is best paired with plain white rice to soak up the rich tomato sauce. For a complete Filipino meal, it works well alongside other tomato-based favorites like Beef Caldereta or Menudo during family gatherings. For contrast, a classic dish such as Chicken Adobo can also be served on the side for variety in flavor.

Storage Tips

• Let the dish cool completely before storing.
• Keep in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Best consumed within 2–3 days for best taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

---

Want more stories beyond food?

More helpful reads:

• FeedFrenzyPlus.com offers curated news and informative articles.
• HeyPositivity.com provides motivational quotes and uplifting content.