Some ingredients feel like home — and chicken is definitely one of them.
It’s the kind of ulam na kahit paulit-ulit, hindi nakakasawa. I always say that Filipino chicken dishes are the “safe space” of our dining table. They’re simple, comforting, budget-friendly, and they carry so many memories.
Growing up, our weekly rotation always had two staples: adobo and tinola. My mom would simmer adobo low and slow on weekends, and the smell alone would make me forget whatever school drama I was dealing with. Tinola, on the other hand, was our rainy-day ritual — warm broth, ginger aroma, and that feeling of comfort na parang yakap ni mama.
Now that I have my own family, it’s the same story. Whenever I sit down to plan meals for the week, “chicken” is always the first thing I write on my list.
Affordable ✔
Versatile ✔
Kid-approved ✔
No-fail ✔
And honestly, there’s something magical about chicken simmering on the stove. Parang kahit pagod ka from work or errands, once you smell it cooking, you instantly feel lighter. Food really does set the tone of the home.
So if you’re looking for ideas to refresh your weekly meal plan, here are 7 Filipino chicken recipes that never fail — classics with a mix of modern and semi-international flavors, pero still very Pinoy at heart.
1. Chicken Adobo (the forever classic)
Of course adobo tops the list.
Every household has its own version — maasim, malasa, may konting tamis, or may gata pa nga minsan. But no matter how you cook it, adobo is comforting, stable, and laging ulam na walang talo. Plus, it tastes even better the next day!
2. Chicken Tinola (for rainy or sick days)
Tinola is that warm hug in a bowl.
Whenever it rains, the whole house automatically shifts into tinola mode. The ginger warms your throat, the broth soothes your soul, and the tender chicken makes everything feel okay again.
3. Chicken Afritada
Colorful, tomatoey, and very “Sunday lunch” vibes.
This dish reminds me of family reunions — big servings, overflowing rice, and kwentuhan that lasts the whole afternoon. It’s hearty, cozy, and perfect for leftovers.
4. Chicken Eskinita BBQ-style
This one is a fun twist!
Inspired by the street-style BBQ stalls, this dish is sweet, smoky, and slightly charred — the kind that reminds you of fiestas and outdoor nights. Serve it with toyomansi and rice? Good luck stopping at just one stick.
5. Chicken Sotanghon Soup
My go-to for busy days when I need something quick and comforting.
Soft noodles, light broth, and tender chicken — it’s the perfect pick-me-up when you’re tired, stressed, or simply craving something warm. The kids love this too!
6. Chicken Pastel
Creamy, cozy, and a little fancy — but still easy enough for a weekday.
I call this the “instant mood booster” dish. There’s something about the mix of chicken, mushrooms, carrots, and creamy sauce that feels very homey yet special.
7. Chicken Inasal (air fryer-friendly!)
If you want something grilled-style without firing up the charcoal, this is it.
The air fryer makes it juicy, smoky, and perfectly browned. Pair it with sinamak and garlic rice — heaven!
At the end of the day, these Filipino chicken recipes remind me why I love home cooking. These dishes may be simple, but they carry stories, comfort, and familiarity. They fit into busy weeks, messy days, and extra-hungry moments.
Chicken will always be “ulam na walang talo.”
And honestly? I think that’s why it will forever have a spot in our weekly menu.
