From adobo to tinola, these timeless Filipino chicken recipes are kitchen must-haves for every mom — delicious, comforting, and made with love.
As moms, we know that chicken is our best friend in the kitchen — it’s affordable, easy to cook, and loved by everyone in the family (even the picky eaters!). Whether it’s for Sunday lunch, a weekday dinner, or a last-minute ulam idea, there’s always a Filipino chicken dish that saves the day.
Here are 10 Filipino chicken recipes every mom should know — classics that deserve a permanent spot in your meal rotation!
1. Chicken Adobo
Of course, we start with the national favorite! Every household has their own version of adobo — some like it dry, others saucy, some add boiled eggs or potatoes. Mine? A little sweet, a little tangy, and simmered until the sauce thickens just right. It’s the ultimate ulam that never fails.
2. Chicken Tinola
A bowl of tinola instantly brings comfort — warm broth, tender chicken, green papaya, and malunggay. It’s perfect for rainy days or when someone at home needs a little TLC. Don’t forget the patis with calamansi on the side!
3. Pininyahang Manok
Sweet, creamy, and full of tropical flavor, this pineapple-infused chicken dish is always a hit with kids. I love adding bell peppers and carrots for extra color (and nutrition!). It’s one of those dishes that look festive but are actually easy to make.
4. Chicken Afritada
Afritada is that vibrant red, tomato-based dish loaded with carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. It’s hearty, colorful, and goes perfectly with rice. The sauce alone is enough to make everyone ask for seconds!
5. Chicken Sopas
A childhood favorite! Creamy chicken macaroni soup with hotdogs, veggies, and lots of milk — it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether for breakfast, merienda, or dinner, sopas never fails to comfort.
6. Chicken Curry (Filipino Style)
A rich, flavorful dish with creamy coconut milk and just the right amount of spice. This Filipino-style curry is mild enough for kids but flavorful enough to impress everyone at the table.
7. Chicken Inasal
Straight from Bacolod, this grilled chicken favorite is marinated in calamansi, vinegar, garlic, and lemongrass — then brushed with annatto oil for that signature orange glow. Best enjoyed with garlic rice and atchara.
8. Chicken BBQ
Every weekend deserves a good barbecue! Sweet, smoky, and a little tangy — chicken BBQ brings that festive, pahinga-day vibe right at home. Serve it with java rice and peanut sauce for the full effect.
9. Chicken Guisantes
This tomato-based dish with green peas and bell peppers is simple, tasty, and always hits home for me. It reminds me of my Nanay — she cooked it so often when I was growing up. I make mine with potatoes now because Ykaie and Twinkle love it.
10. Chicken Sotanghon Soup
Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. The mix of chicken, sotanghon noodles, and vegetables is not just filling — it’s comforting and nostalgic, like the kind of meal your lola would serve with a smile.
Wrapping It Up
These Filipino chicken dishes aren’t just recipes, they’re part of our family traditions. Each one brings back memories of home, laughter, and love shared over rice and stories. 💕
So mommies, if you’re ever stuck wondering “Ano ulam natin?”— bookmark this list and take your pick. Whether it’s creamy curry, saucy adobo, or comforting tinola, you’ll never run out of delicious, homey meals to make for your family.
