When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats chicken. It’s affordable, easy to cook, and loved by almost every Pinoy household. Whether it’s a simple ulam for lunch or a special dish for fiestas, chicken always finds its way to our table.
And if you love cooking like I do, you’ll appreciate having a reliable kitchen partner. My favorite? The Instant Pot — it saves so much time and makes even the toughest cuts tender and flavorful. Perfect for Pinoy dishes like adobo, afritada, or tinola!
So if you’re looking for inspiration for your next meal, here are 10 of the best Filipino chicken recipes — from classic favorites to regional specialties — that will make you fall in love with chicken all over again.
1. Chicken Adobo
No list would be complete without the king of Pinoy dishes.
Adobo’s perfect balance of salty, sour, and savory flavors makes it a staple in every home. Try using a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaf, and peppercorns — then simmer until the sauce thickens and the chicken turns golden brown.
Tip: Add a little coconut milk or sugar if you prefer a creamier or sweeter version.
2. Tinolang Manok
A soothing classic that’s perfect for rainy days.
Tinola combines tender chicken, green papaya (or sayote), and malunggay leaves simmered in a flavorful ginger broth. Serve it with hot rice and patis with calamansi on the side — sarap ng lutong bahay!
3. Chicken Inasal
A Bacolod favorite that’s smoky, tangy, and perfectly grilled.
Marinate the chicken in calamansi, lemongrass, garlic, vinegar, and achuete oil. Grill it over charcoal while brushing more oil for that signature orange glaze and mouthwatering aroma.
4. Chicken Afritada
A tomato-based dish that feels like a warm hug.
Cook your chicken with bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is often served during fiestas or Sunday lunches — proof that simple ingredients can create something special.
5. Chicken Curry
Filipino-style chicken curry is rich, creamy, and slightly sweet.
We use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, mixed with curry powder, bell peppers, potatoes, and carrots. It’s the perfect blend of Filipino and Indian influences — best enjoyed with rice or even pandesal.
6. Pininyahang Manok
A sweet and tangy twist on chicken stew.
Made with pineapple chunks, evaporated milk, and colorful veggies, this dish has a tropical flavor that kids love. The pineapple tenderizes the chicken, while the sauce adds a creamy, fruity flavor that’s irresistibly good.
7. Chicken Sopas
Comfort food on a cold morning or after a long day.
This creamy macaroni soup is loaded with chicken, hotdogs, carrots, and cabbage — and often served with a generous sprinkle of cheese on top. It’s also a favorite merienda for kids.
8. Chicken Caldereta
If you love hearty dishes, this one’s for you.
Caldereta uses liver spread, tomato paste, and cheese for that rich, savory sauce. Add olives or green peas for extra texture — a must-try for special occasions.
9. Chicken BBQ
Perfect for parties and weekend gatherings.
Marinate the chicken in banana ketchup, soy sauce, calamansi, and a bit of sugar. Grill it until caramelized and slightly charred. Pair with java rice and atchara — a certified Pinoy combo!
10. Sinampalukang Manok
A tangy, regional favorite often compared to sinigang.
It uses young tamarind leaves for its signature sour taste. The broth is light, refreshing, and packed with the earthy flavor of ginger — perfect for those who prefer something less rich but full of flavor.
Final Thoughts
From Adobo to Sinampalukang Manok, Filipino chicken recipes show how creative and flavorful our cuisine truly is. Each dish tells a story — of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing food.
If you want to try making these dishes at home, make sure your kitchen is ready with the basics — a non-stick pan, a pressure cooker, and a good chopping board. With the right tools and fresh ingredients, you’ll be serving these Pinoy favorites in no time.