Indulge in the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine with these mouthwatering chicken recipes. As a staple protein in Filipino cooking, there’s an array of delicious and authentic dishes to explore.
With chicken as the foundation, this selection offers a perfect starting point for newcomers looking to embark on a culinary journey through the Philippines.
Chicken Adobo
In the culinary world of the Philippines, chicken adobo has earned its place as a treasured staple dish. The tender chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a rich and savory soy-based sauce, infused with the subtle aroma of bay leaves. This delectable recipe culminates in a mouthwatering experience when served atop a bed of fluffy jasmine white rice, garnished with a delicate sprinkle of fresh green onion. For those seeking more flavorful and budget-friendly meal ideas, explore this collection of affordable crockpot recipes that are sure to delight.
Chicken Caldereta
The quintessential comfort food, chicken calderata masterfully blends rustic charm with refined elegance. This Filipino dish is a true embodiment of warmth and satisfaction, packed with generous portions of protein-rich chicken and an array of vibrant vegetables, including green peas. A perfect meal to share with family and friends, it can be effortlessly elevated by serving it atop creamy mashed potatoes or flavorful rice, ensuring a satisfying experience for all.
Chicken Tinola
In the Philippines, a staple comfort food is Chicken Tinola, often referred to as the national equivalent of chicken noodle soup. What sets this dish apart from its international counterpart is the unique addition of chayote, a melon-like fruit renowned for its refreshing qualities. When combined with succulent chicken thighs cooked in a savory ginger-infused broth and finished with a drizzle of olive oil, Chicken Tinola truly becomes a culinary masterpiece capable of providing solace and nourishment.
Slow Cooker Chicken Adobo
While Instant Pots are fantastic for quick meals, sometimes you just need to rely on your trusty slow cooker to get the job done. This Filipino-inspired chicken adobo recipe is a prime example – with its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s well worth the slightly longer cooking time compared to the Instant Pot version.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
Discover the simplicity of Instant Pot chicken adobo, as this mouth-watering recipe brings together the perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors. With just a few essential ingredients including white vinegar, green onions, and a bay leaf, plus some quick prep time, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this dish comes together.
Inihaw Na Manok
Indulging in perfectly grilled barbecued chicken is a culinary delight that never goes out of style. To take your grilling game to the next level, try this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the perfect blend of herbs, spices, and condiments. The outcome is a succulent and charred chicken thigh on a skewer, bursting with juicy flavor in every bite.
Best Filipino Chicken Recipes
What’s at the heart of the best Filipino chicken recipes? It’s not just about quantity, but about capturing the essence of this vibrant cuisine. With countless options to explore, I’ve focused on one crucial factor: flavor. The resulting list is a culinary journey that celebrates the unique characteristics of Filipino cooking.
Arroz Caldo
One of the most comforting recipes out there is this hearty rice porridge dish. It’s made with humble ingredients like chicken stock, aromatic vegetables, and tender chicken. This versatile meal is perfect for a chilly winter’s day. Plus, it’s incredibly affordable and uses common pantry staples. With this recipe, you can create a delicious base that can be used for breakfast, lunch, or dinner – the possibilities are endless!
Slow Cooker Chicken Adobo
The secret to achieving a stunning char on the chicken skin lies in this version of the classic chicken adobo. As the dish develops its flavors, the caramelized crust adds an unparalleled depth to each bite. This mouthwatering combination will undoubtedly delight both your eyes and taste buds. To elevate the experience further, consider preparing the dish a day or two in advance, allowing it to meld together in the refrigerator overnight.
Chicken Sisig
The Philippines is renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, and one dish that stands out for its distinctive taste and aroma is this Filipino specialty. The combination of shredded chicken and livers, carefully balanced with pungent aromatics such as garlic, onion, and chilies, produces a harmonious symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. This unique fusion of textures and tastes is a testament to the country’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Chicken Afritada
If you’re a fan of indulging in crispy and juicy chicken drumsticks, you’ll be thrilled to know that I have a recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite: chicken afritada. This hearty stew is packed with tender drumsticks smothered in a rich tomato-based broth, accompanied by an array of fresh vegetables. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile – serve it on its own for a comforting meal, or pair it with rice or mashed potatoes for added depth and satisfaction. Trust me when I say that this dish is sure to become the star of your next Sunday dinner gathering, pleasing even the pickiest of eaters.
Easy Chicken Adobo
For a mouth-watering chicken adobo that requires minimal effort, look no further! This straightforward recipe can be prepared in just 10 minutes on the stovetop, making it an ideal solution for those in a hurry or looking to whip up a quick dinner. With only a few ingredients and a simple cooking process, this dish is perfect for even the most novice of cooks.
Chicken Giniling
In the Philippines, one of the simplest yet most flavorful chicken dishes is undoubtedly chicken giniling. This popular recipe involves cooking ground chicken and mixed vegetables in a savory blend of spices, resulting in a dish that’s both quick and easy to prepare. While it’s traditionally served with steaming hot rice, its versatility allows you to enjoy it however you like – be it as a main course, side dish, or even as a creative way to repurpose leftover veggies from the week.
Crispy Fried Chicken
The world of fried chicken is incredibly diverse, with countless regional twists and interpretations. In the Philippines, a unique take on this beloved dish has gained popularity for its bold flavor profile. A key component of this variation is the addition of fish sauce, which infuses the crispy exterior and tender interior with a savory umami taste.
Chopsuey
Chopsuey, a Chinese-inspired culinary delight, boasts an abundance of fresh vegetables and a choice of protein in a rich, savory sauce. This speedy and easy-to-prepare dish is an excellent way to introduce children to the world of vegetables. By serving it over rice, you can effortlessly stretch the meal, making it a practical option for families.
Chicken Adobo
The culmination of this recipe yields a rich, savory sauce infused with the pungency of ginger and garlic. A notable characteristic of traditional chicken adobo is its pairing with a wedge of Filipino lime. While authentic limes may be challenging to find, a regular lime will suffice, making it a convenient substitute.
Chicken Tocino
Kicking off your day with a satisfying breakfast meal can be a challenge. However, one dish that consistently hits the spot is chicken tocino, which masterfully balances sweet and savory flavors. The key to this delightful breakfast lies in its tenderization process, where the chicken is marinated in a fragrant mixture of brown sugar, garlic, and pineapple juice.
Coconut Chicken Curry
Transform that leftover roast chicken into a mouthwatering Filipino coconut chicken curry, rich in flavor and simplicity. This effortless recipe is perfect for a quick college dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Skinless Chicken Longganisa
In the Philippines, there’s a beloved breakfast staple that’s sure to perk you up on any morning: chicken longganisa. This sweet, salty, and savory sausage is a perfect blend of flavors that will have you looking forward to your next wake-up call. One of its greatest advantages is how effortless it is to prepare ahead of time. Simply store some in the fridge for a stress-free Sunday morning fry-up, whenever the craving strikes.
Pininyahang Manok
In the heartwarming Pininyahang Manok, or ‘pineapple chicken,’ the harmonious union of sweet and savory flavors yields an unparalleled culinary experience. The star of the show – tender, juicy chicken – owes its exceptional texture to the tangy pineapple’s acidity, which breaks down the meat in a way that’s simply divine. This beloved Filipino dish masterfully balances contrasting flavors, crafting a truly unforgettable gastronomic delight.
Ginataang Manok
Ginataang Manok, or ‘coconut chicken’, is a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for cold winter nights. This creamy stew combines tender chicken, potatoes, and the warmth of coconut milk and ginger to create a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite.
Chicken Macaroni Sopas
Elevating the classic comfort food, chicken noodle soup, is the chicken macaroni sopas recipe that adds a game-changing twist. The key lies in incorporating chicken livers, which amplify the rich chicken flavor to unprecedented heights.
Arroz Caldo
Winter’s chill can be tempered by a steaming bowl of Arroz Caldo, also known as chicken and rice soup. This comforting meal is a staple for cold nights and when you’re feeling under the weather. Its warm, inviting aroma and flavors will transport you to a cozy home setting.
Tinolang Manok
The harmonious union of tender chicken, fresh green papaya, and wilted spinach creates a rich and warming ginger broth that’s perfect for cozying up with your loved ones on a chilly day. This nutritious Filipino-inspired soup is designed to satisfy your cravings and bring everyone together.
Chicken Lumpia
While spring rolls and Chicken Lumpia share some similarities, it’s the latter’s uniquely Filipino filling that sets them apart. A great option when you’re craving a home-cooked meal but don’t feel like cooking from scratch, these frozen treats can be easily pulled out of the freezer on a whim. With their satisfying flavor and ease of preparation, they’re an excellent addition to your arsenal of quick and convenient meals.
Chicken Pastel
In the realm of Filipino cuisine, Chicken Pastel – also known as Pastel de Pollo – is a beloved dish that bears a striking resemblance to its British counterpart, the chicken pot pie. What sets it apart, however, is its Spanish-inspired twist, which lends a unique flair to this savory delight. When served at dinner parties with friends, the impressive presentation of Chicken Pastel is sure to impress, making it an ideal choice for social gatherings. But beyond its visually appealing exterior, lies a hearty and filling treat that’s rich in flavor and satisfying in texture. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and golden flaky pie crust makes for a culinary experience that will leave you feeling full and content.
Chicken Afritada
Simplifying comfort food, one dish at a time – take two! For those who crave warmth and satisfaction towards the end of the week, this recipe for chicken afritada offers a comforting reprieve. The beauty lies in its flexibility, allowing you to tailor the vegetable ratio to your taste preferences. Perhaps you’ll find yourself drawn to the sweetness of bell peppers or the earthy undertones of eggplant.
Sweet and Sour Chicken
As we conclude our culinary journey through the flavors of the Philippines, it’s only fitting that we highlight sweet and sour chicken, a beloved dish cherished worldwide. This iconic flavor combination is a staple in many Filipino households, and for good reason – it’s incredibly easy to make at home, requiring minimal effort but yielding impressive results. With an abundance of ingredients, this recipe may seem intimidating at first glance, but rest assured that the process itself is straightforward, making it accessible to cooks of all levels. As we wrap up our exploration of these delectable Filipino dishes, which one has piqued your interest? Have you had the pleasure of savoring any of these flavors before? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
