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The first time I caught a whiff of Filipino Chicken Asado Stew bubbling on the stove, it was as if I had been transported to a bustling market in Manila. The combination of sweet and tangy tomato-soy glaze intertwining with the savory aroma of marinated chicken is simply unforgettable. It’s that delightful dish perfect for lazy weekends, family gatherings, or when you want to impress guests without feeling overwhelmed.

As someone who’s always on the lookout for meals that celebrate bold flavors while being surprisingly easy, this stew stands out. The succulent chicken, tender potatoes, and vibrant bell peppers meld together in a warm embrace, creating comfort in every bite. With just a bit of prep time and a few aromatic ingredients, you’ll create a delightful symphony of tastes that elevate your cooking game. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this comforting Filipino classic that will leave fast food far behind!

Why is Filipino Chicken Asado Stew unique?

Unforgettable flavor: The tangy tomato-soy glaze perfectly balances sweetness and umami, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Ease of preparation: With just a little marinating and simmering, you’ll create a comforting dish that’s way easier than it sounds!
Wholesome ingredients: Packed with succulent chicken, hearty potatoes, and colorful bell peppers, this stew is both nutritious and satisfying.
Versatile meal option: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, you can easily double the recipe to impress guests without a hitch.
Aromatic appeal: The fragrant blend of garlic, onions, and spices will fill your kitchen with irresistible smells, inviting everyone to the table!
If you’re looking for more guidance, check out my tips on cooking hearty stews that warm the heart.

Filipino Chicken Asado Stew Ingredients

Get ready to create an unforgettable Filipino Chicken Asado Stew with this carefully selected list of ingredients!

For the Marinade

Chicken Thighs – 1 kg – Ideal for tender and juicy flavor, perfect for simmering.
Soy Sauce – 1/2 cup – Adds a rich umami taste that enhances the stew’s depth.
Lemon Juice – 1/4 cup – Provides tanginess that beautifully complements the savory notes.
Bay Leaves – 3 pieces – Infuse a subtle herbal aroma that rounds out the stew’s flavor.
Garlic – 4 cloves – A must for that aromatic savory kick!
Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon – Adds a touch of heat that enhances all the flavors.
Star Anise – 1 piece – Gives a hint of sweetness and a unique character to the dish.

For the Stew Base

Cooking Oil – 2 tablespoons – Helps achieve a nice golden brown on the chicken.
Onion – 1 large – Sweetens the stew as it caramelizes and brings great flavor.
Tomato Sauce – 1 cup – Forms the tangy base of the stew, giving it that signature flavor.
Oyster Sauce – 2 tablespoons – Deepens the umami and adds complexity to the taste.
Sugar – 1 tablespoon – Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce beautifully.

For the Vegetables

Potatoes – 2 medium – Absorb delicious flavors while adding hearty texture.
Bell Peppers – 2 pieces – Brightens up the dish with color and a slight crunch.

For the Liquid

Water – 3 cups – Provides the right consistency for a rich stew that melds flavors beautifully.

How to Make Filipino Chicken Asado Stew

Marinate the chicken thighs in a combined mixture of soy sauce, lemon juice, bay leaves, garlic, black pepper, and star anise. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best to deepen the flavors.
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add cooking oil. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and brown it in the pot for 4–5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. Set the chicken aside.
Sauté the chopped onion and garlic in the same pot for about 5 minutes until they become soft and golden, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Stir in the tomato sauce, along with the reserved marinade and oyster sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until well combined, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
Return the browned chicken to the pot, cover it, and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the tasty stew base.
Add water and sugar to the pot, stirring well. Cover the pot and simmer for 10 minutes, letting the stew thicken and the flavors intensify.
Incorporate cubed potatoes into the pot and continue simmering for another 15 minutes, allowing them to become tender and soak up the rich stew flavors.
Stir in bell peppers during the last 10 minutes of cooking, adding a pop of color and slight crunch to your delicious stew.
Serve hot with steamed rice, soaking in all that savory, tangy goodness.

Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Filipino Chicken Asado Stew components are perfect for meal prep and can help save precious time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the soy sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance, which actually enhances the flavors. Chop the vegetables—onion, potatoes, and bell peppers—up to 3 days ahead and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply brown the marinated chicken and follow the recipe as instructed. This method ensures that your stew is just as delicious while minimizing time spent in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a heartwarming meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Filipino Chicken Asado Stew?

Delight your family and friends with a complete meal that beautifully complements the rich flavors of this savory stew.

Steamed Rice: The classic pairing, fluffy white rice absorbs the tangy sauce perfectly, ensuring no drop goes to waste. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Garlic Fried Rice: For a delightful twist, this aromatic rice adds a garlicky kick that enhances the stew’s flavors, making every bite unforgettable.
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy and light, these rolls filled with fresh vegetables offer a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. They’re perfect for balancing textures!
Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side like pickled cucumber or radish cuts through the richness of the stew, elevating each bite with a burst of crunchy zest.
Mango Salad: With its sweet and tangy flavors, a fresh mango salad brightens the palate, creating a vibrant and harmonious meal experience.
Coconut Cream Dessert: This rich and creamy dessert is a perfect sweet finish to your meal, leaving guests craving more of that tropical essence!
Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like sweetened iced tea complements the savory aspects of the stew while providing a cooling balance against the warm spices.
Philippine Beer: For those who enjoy brews, a light local Philippine beer pairs splendidly with the savory notes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Banana Lumpia: These sweet banana spring rolls bring an indulgent but delightful end to the meal, continuing the warmth and satisfaction of your culinary journey.

Tips for the Best Filipino Chicken Asado Stew

Marinate Longer: Aim for overnight marination if possible, as this allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors, making it truly unforgettable.
Perfect Browning: Ensure your pot is properly heated before adding the chicken. Browning adds depth and richness that elevate your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew.
Don’t Rush: Simmering is key! Give the stew enough time to thicken and meld the flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
Cut Vegetables Evenly: Uniformly slice your potatoes and bell peppers to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the stew’s wonderful sauce.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed. Adding a pinch more sugar can balance acidity beautifully.
Serve with Care: Pair with perfectly steamed rice to soak up that delicious sauce—every bite should be a burst of flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Filipino Chicken Asado Stew

Fridge: Store your leftover Filipino Chicken Asado Stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to reheat for quick meals!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in portioned containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Ensure excess air is removed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Microwave reheating works too—just ensure it’s heated evenly!

Avoid Reheating Multiple Times: To maintain the best flavor and texture, only reheat what you’ll eat in one sitting.

Filipino Chicken Asado Stew Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists on the classic Filipino Chicken Asado Stew, adding your personal touch!

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to the stew for an unexpected burst of heat.
Coconut Creamy: Incorporate 1 cup of coconut milk instead of some water to create a richer, creamier texture and flavor.
Veggie Boost: Toss in additional vegetables like carrots, green beans, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added freshness and vibrant aroma at either cooking or serving time.
Gluten-Free Swap: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option that keeps the umami flavor intact.
Orange Zest: Grate some orange peel into the marinade to infuse a bright citrus note that complements the lemon juice beautifully.
Sweetened Version: Increase the sugar for a sweeter glaze, or drizzle a touch of honey before serving for a luscious finish.
Different Proteins: Swap chicken thighs for pork or beef chunks to explore new textures and flavors that still work amazingly well in this comforting stew.

Filipino Chicken Asado Stew Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this stew?
Absolutely! Look for firm chicken thighs with a pink hue and minimal blemishes. For bell peppers, select ones that are firm and glossy with no dark spots, while potatoes should be smooth and without any sprouts or green patches.

How should I store leftover Filipino Chicken Asado Stew?
Store your leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and makes for a quick meal option. Just make sure it’s cooled down before refrigerating!

Can I freeze Filipino Chicken Asado Stew?
Yes, you can! I often freeze my stew in portioned containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the stew to cool completely, then portion it out, remove excess air, and seal well to prevent freezer burn.

What’s the best way to reheat the stew?
When you’re ready to enjoy your stew again, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through, which typically takes about 10–15 minutes. The microwave works fine too—just be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

Are there any dietary considerations for Filipino Chicken Asado Stew?
Very important! This stew contains soy sauce, which means it isn’t suitable for those with soy allergies. Additionally, if you’re serving this to pets, it’s essential to remember that onions and garlic can be harmful to them, so please keep it away from your furry friends!

What if my stew is too salty?
If you find that your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew is too salty, don’t worry—it happens! You can help balance the flavor by adding a small amount of sugar, which will counteract the saltiness. Alternatively, adding more water or unsalted broth can dilute the saltiness. Taste and adjust slowly until you’re satisfied!