Chicken Caldereta

Ah, Chicken Caldereta—one of those hearty, flavorful dishes that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings everyone to the table. This Filipino classic is a comforting, rich stew made with tender chicken, vegetables, and a savory tomato-based sauce that’s subtly spiced and absolutely delicious. Trust me, once you taste that tender chicken soaking in all the flavorful goodness, you’ll understand why Chicken Caldereta is such a beloved dish in Filipino kitchens.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, having a cozy dinner with friends, or celebrating something special, this dish is a winner. It’s got that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser every time. And the best part? It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, so you’re guaranteed leftovers that are just as tasty.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Caldereta

Here’s why this dish is going to win you over:

• Rich & Flavorful: The tomato-based sauce with garlic, onions, and spices is the kind of flavor you just want to savor with every bite.
• Perfectly Tender Chicken: The chicken becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it simmers, soaking up all those delicious flavors from the sauce.
• Versatile: You can serve it over rice, with bread, or even on its own. Plus, it’s great for gatherings or family meals.
• Hearty & Comforting: It’s the ultimate comfort food—warm, filling, and made to satisfy everyone at the table.
• Easy to Make: This dish may look fancy, but it’s actually simple to put together. Just throw everything in a pot and let the flavors do their thing.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious Chicken Caldereta:

• Chicken (thighs or drumsticks): The star of the show! Bone-in pieces work best because they stay juicy while cooking.
• Potatoes: For that comforting, hearty texture. They soak up all the flavors of the sauce.
• Carrots: Adds a nice sweet crunch to balance the richness of the dish.
• Bell Peppers: Both green and red peppers add color and flavor.
• Tomato Sauce: The base for the sauce, providing that rich and tangy flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Adds depth and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Onions and Garlic: These are the flavor base of the dish, creating a savory foundation.
• Bay Leaves: A subtle herb that adds that wonderful fragrance to the sauce.
• Olives (optional): For a briny, tangy twist that cuts through the richness.
• Cheddar Cheese (optional): A little shredded cheese melted on top gives this dish an extra creamy, indulgent finish.
• Soy Sauce: For umami depth and a savory kick.
• Vinegar: To balance out the richness of the sauce with a hint of tang.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance the acidity and round out the flavors.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste and elevate all the ingredients.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Ready to dive in and create a pot of this delicious dish? Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, skin side down, and sear them until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). This will help lock in the juices and develop a deep flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onions until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, soy sauce, and vinegar. Stir to combine. Add the bay leaves and sugar, and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Add the potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure the veggies are well coated in the sauce. If necessary, add a bit of water or chicken broth to ensure the chicken and vegetables are covered.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Check occasionally and add more water if the sauce reduces too much.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once everything is tender, stir in the olives (if using), and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chicken Caldereta hot with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs, if you’d like, and enjoy every comforting bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 450
Total Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 650mg
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 30g
Vitamin A: 70%
Vitamin C: 60%
Calcium: 10%
Iron: 15%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Caldereta

Chicken Caldereta is perfect with any of the following:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing that helps soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.
• Crusty Bread: For dipping into the sauce and enjoying every last drop.
• Garlic Bread: Add a garlicky twist that complements the savory dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair it with some roasted vegetables like green beans or zucchini for an extra boost of flavor.

Additional Tips

• Make-Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, throw in some chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce base.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover Chicken Caldereta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use boneless chicken if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since boneless pieces cook faster than bone-in chicken.

Q2: Can I use other vegetables?
A2: Absolutely! Feel free to add peas, green beans, or even sweet potatoes for a different twist on the dish.

Q3: Can I make this dish spicier?
A3: Yes! Add some chopped chili peppers, or use a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder to give the dish an extra kick.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q5: Can I freeze this dish?
A5: Yes, Chicken Caldereta freezes well! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q6: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A6: Yes! Sear the chicken and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender.

Q7: What can I serve with Chicken Caldereta?
A7: Serve with steamed rice, garlic bread, or even a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Q8: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A8: Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are more flavorful and stay juicier when simmered in the sauce.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: Use skinless chicken, reduce the amount of oil, and load up on more vegetables to make the dish lighter.

Q10: Can I make Chicken Caldereta with beef?
A10: Yes! You can easily substitute the chicken with beef for a beef caldereta, which is another classic Filipino variation.

Conclusion

Chicken Caldereta is the ultimate comfort food that brings the heart of Filipino cooking to your table. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every mouthwatering bite!

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