The aroma wafted through the kitchen, instantly bringing a sense of comfort and nostalgia. My latest culinary adventure took me to the heart of Filipino cuisine with the delightful Filipino Chicken Asado Stew, featuring a tangy tomato soy glaze that is simply irresistible. This recipe is not only a breeze to whip up, but it also allows you to choose your favorite protein, making it immensely versatile. With its ability to shine as a meal prep essential, you can savor hearty, homemade flavors throughout the week without the fuss of daily cooking. Whether you’re indulging in a cozy night in or bringing a smile to shared family dinners, this stew is sure to become a cherished staple. So, are you ready to craft your own delicious memories?

Why is Filipino Chicken Asado Stew Special?

Comfort in Every Bite: This hearty stew envelops you in warmth, making it an ideal dish for chilly evenings.
Easy Adaptability: Whether chicken, pork, beef, or duck, this recipe caters to every meat lover’s palate.
Meal Prep Hero: Cook a big batch and enjoy flavorful lunches or dinners throughout the week, keeping fast food boredom at bay.
Rich, Tangy Flavor: The combination of soy glaze and citrus makes each bite a culinary delight—even perfect for pairing with fluffy rice or crusty bread. If you love easy-to-make comfort food, don’t forget to check out our Chicken Enchiladas Comfort and Garlic Butter Chicken for more tasty options!
Family Favorite: With its vibrant colors and delicious aroma, it’s sure to win over hearts at the dinner table.

Filipino Chicken Asado Stew Ingredients

• Discover the essential components for this delightful dish!

For the Stew

Chicken Thighs – A rich protein source that can be substituted with pork, beef, or duck for variety.
Soy Sauce – Provides savory depth; opt for tamari to keep the Filipino Chicken Asado Stew gluten-free.
Lemon Juice – Adds a tangy brightness; calamansi juice offers an authentic touch.
Bay Leaves – Infuses aromatic flavor throughout the cooking process.
Garlic – Freshly minced gives a robust flavor that elevates the stew.
Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; feel free to adjust according to personal taste.
Star Anise – Optional, but lends a unique sweetness that’s worth trying.
Cooking Oil – Essential for browning; vegetable or canola oil works best.
Onion – Sweeter varieties, like yellow onions, are perfect for a milder flavor.
Tomato Sauce – Contributes both sweetness and acidity to the dish.
Oyster Sauce – Deepens the flavor; for vegetarians, use mushroom sauce as a substitute.
Sugar – Balances the acidity; adjust to your sweetness preference.
Potatoes – Adds heartiness; make sure to cube them for even cooking.
Bell Peppers – For a pop of color and crunch; mix different colors for visual appeal.
Water – Use to adjust the stew’s consistency to your liking.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Filipino Chicken Asado Stew

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs, soy sauce, lemon juice, bay leaves, minced garlic, black pepper, and star anise (if using). Ensure the chicken is well-coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption. This marinating step is crucial for infusing the Filipino Chicken Asado Stew with rich, savory undertones.

Step 2: Brown Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the marinated chicken thighs, cooking for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. This browning adds depth to the stew’s flavor. Remove the chicken and set it aside while maintaining the flavorful oil in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will signal that it’s time to focus on the next step of crafting your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Combine Flavors
Stir in the tomato sauce, reserved marinade, and oyster sauce into the pot, mixing well for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Allowing these ingredients to meld creates a luscious base for your stew. You’ll notice the rich color deepening as the flavors begin to brighten and combine beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer Stew
Return the browned chicken to the pot, adding water to cover the ingredients and sugar to balance the acidity. Cover the pot and lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors of the Filipino Chicken Asado Stew to develop and the chicken to become tender and juicy.

Step 6: Add Potatoes
Incorporate cubed potatoes into the stew, stirring gently to combine. Cover the pot again and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes. The potatoes will absorb the delicious sauce while softening, adding heartiness to the dish and making it a cozy, nourishing meal.

Step 7: Final Veggies
During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the chopped bell peppers into the pot. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The vibrant colors and crunchiness of the bell peppers will add a delightful contrast to the stew, making your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew visually appealing as well as delicious.

Step 8: Serve
Once the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked to your liking, it’s time to serve! Ladle the stew into bowls while hot and pair it with fluffy steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the rich, tangy sauce. This Filipino Chicken Asado Stew is sure to become a comforting favorite at your dinner table.

Make Ahead Options

Filipino Chicken Asado Stew is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, allowing for seamless meal prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they absorb all those delightful flavors. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (onions, garlic, potatoes, and bell peppers) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy your stew, simply brown the marinated chicken and sauté the aromatics, then proceed with the recipe instructions as usual. To maintain quality, make sure to refrigerate the prepared components in airtight containers, so everything stays fresh and tasty. Enjoy the comforting ease of this hearty dish throughout your week!

How to Store and Freeze Filipino Chicken Asado Stew

Fridge: Store your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and allows for easy reheating.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. This makes it convenient to enjoy homemade goodness whenever you desire.

Reheating: When ready to indulge, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stove. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens to maintain that delightful texture.

Meal Prep Tip: This stew is perfect for meal prep! Cook a big batch, store in the fridge or freezer, and savor warm, comforting home-cooked meals throughout your week.

What to Serve with Filipino Chicken Asado Stew?

As you settle into the rich, comforting flavors of this delightful stew, consider these perfect pairings to elevate your meal.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the savory sauce, letting you savor every last drop.
Crusty French Bread: Perfect for dipping into the stew, it adds a delightful crunch and contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
Garlic Fried Rice: Infused with aromatics, this dish adds a wonderful twist that complements the tangy flavors of the stew.

For a refreshing side, enjoy a vibrant Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a tangy dressing offer a cooling contrast and brighten up the meal. Pairing with a Chilled Coconut Drink can also quench your thirst while enhancing the tropical vibe of the dish.

Finally, finish your meal with a Mango Float Dessert: This creamy delight adds sweetness and richness, perfect for a satisfying end to the culinary experience.

Filipino Chicken Asado Stew Variations

Feel free to put your own twist on this delightful stew and explore new flavor dimensions that resonate with your tastes.

Pork Swap: Substitute chicken with pork for a rich and slightly sweeter profile, perfect for pork lovers.
Beef or Duck Delight: For a heartier stew, try swapping chicken for beef or duck, bringing a unique richness to each bite.
Veggie Boost: Add seasonal vegetables like green beans or carrots for extra nutrition and delightful color in your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew.
Spice It Up: Kick up the heat by adding sliced chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce; the spicy twist elevates the stew to a new level!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as a garnish for a refreshing pop of flavor and brightness.
Coconut Cream: For a creamy and tropical twist, stir in a splash of coconut cream before serving to enhance richness.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Soy Sauce Variations: Explore different types of soy sauce—like dark or sweet soy—for added complexity in flavor, complementing the tangy notes beautifully.

Looking for more comforting recipes? Try our Cowboy Butter Chicken and Maple Glazed Chicken with Sweet Potatoes for some delicious dinner inspirations!

Expert Tips for Filipino Chicken Asado Stew

Marination Matters: Ensure you marinate the chicken for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight to deepen the flavors in your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew.
Watch the Temperature: Keep an eye on the simmering temperature to avoid overcooking. Boneless chicken can dry out quickly if left cooking too long.
Saltiness Fix: If your stew turns out too salty, simply add more water or extra cubed potatoes to absorb the excess saltiness and balance the flavors.
Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to get creative by adding seasonal veggies like green beans or carrots for additional nutrients and a colorful presentation.
Consistency Check: Adjust the water as the stew cooks to achieve your desired consistency—more water for a soupier stew, less for a thicker sauce.

Filipino Chicken Asado Stew Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my stew?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using chicken thighs as they are juicier compared to chicken breasts. Look for pieces that have a good amount of fat and a vibrant pinkish color. If you prefer a leaner option, skinless chicken thighs are a great choice!

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! You can store your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens.

Can I freeze the stew for later? What’s the best method?
Certainly! To freeze your stew, wait for it to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, and make sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove, adding water if necessary for consistency.

What should I do if my stew is too salty?
If your stew turns out too salty, don’t worry! You can easily fix it by adding more water to dilute the saltiness. Alternatively, toss in a few extra cubed potatoes during the simmering process; they absorb excess salt, helping to balance flavors beautifully.

Is this stew safe for people with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! To make your Filipino Chicken Asado Stew gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. This simple switch maintains all the rich flavors without the gluten, allowing everyone to enjoy this delightful dish!

Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
Yes, of course! Feel free to incorporate seasonal veggies like green beans, peas, or carrots to enhance nutrition and flavor. Just add them during the last 15 minutes of cooking to achieve a tender yet crunchy texture that complements the stew perfectly!