Filipino Chicken Asado Stew with Tangy Tomato Soy Glaze Magic

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Filipino Chicken Asado is one of those comforting stews that feels deeply satisfying yet surprisingly easy to prepare. What makes this version special is the tangy tomato-soy glaze that gently coats the chicken, creating layers of savory, sweet, and slightly acidic flavors. I love how the sauce thickens naturally as it simmers, clinging to the chicken and vegetables without feeling heavy.

This dish is perfect for family dinners because it improves with time, making leftovers even more delicious the next day. I tested this recipe using bone-in chicken thighs, and they stayed incredibly tender while absorbing the sauce beautifully. The balance of soy sauce, tomato sauce, and aromatics gives the stew its signature Filipino character while remaining approachable for anyone new to the cuisine. Served with steamed rice, it becomes a complete, comforting meal that always draws people back for seconds.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken pieces form the hearty base of this stew. Bone-in cuts are ideal as they add depth and richness to the sauce while remaining juicy.

Soy sauce provides the primary savory backbone. It seasons the chicken deeply and balances the sweetness of the tomato component.

Tomato sauce delivers tanginess and body to the stew. It creates the glossy glaze that defines Chicken Asado.

Brown sugar adds gentle sweetness, helping to mellow the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance caramelization.

Garlic infuses the stew with aromatic warmth. Lightly crushed cloves release flavor without overpowering the sauce.

Onion contributes natural sweetness and creates a well-rounded flavor base once softened.

Bay leaves add subtle herbal notes that develop during simmering.

Black pepper lends mild heat and complexity without dominating the dish.

Potatoes absorb the sauce beautifully, becoming tender and flavorful as they cook.

Water or light chicken stock helps regulate consistency and allows the flavors to meld slowly.

Cooking oil is used for browning, building flavor at the very first stage.

Directions

Heat oil in a heavy pot over medium heat. Lightly brown the chicken pieces on all sides, then remove and set aside. In the same pot, sauté onions until soft, followed by garlic until fragrant.

Return the chicken to the pot and pour in soy sauce, tomato sauce, and water or stock. Add bay leaves, black pepper, and brown sugar. Stir gently to combine.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes. Add the potatoes and continue simmering for another 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens into a glaze.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves before serving. Serve hot over steamed rice.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 5 people.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 50 minutes, making the total time just over 1 hour.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

Variations and Customizations

Chicken Asado is wonderfully flexible. For a richer flavor, you can add a small splash of vinegar toward the end of cooking to enhance tanginess. Some households prefer adding carrots or bell peppers for color and subtle sweetness.

If you enjoy deeper sweetness, pineapple chunks can be added during the final simmer, contributing a fruity note that pairs beautifully with soy and tomato. I tried this version once for a festive meal, and it added a pleasant contrast.

For a spicier take, a small amount of chili paste or sliced fresh chilies can be included. If you prefer a leaner dish, use skinless chicken pieces and skim excess fat from the sauce before serving.

This stew also works well with pork if you want to explore another traditional variation, adjusting simmering time accordingly.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is high in protein and provides sustained energy from potatoes. Using moderate amounts of oil keeps the stew balanced, and it can be adapted for lower sodium diets by reducing soy sauce and adding water or stock.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Browning builds flavor
Properly searing the chicken adds depth to the final sauce.

Simmer gently
Low, steady heat keeps the chicken tender.

Balance the glaze
Adjust sugar and tomato to suit your taste.

Let it rest
The stew tastes even better after sitting for a short while.

FAQs

What cut of chicken works best?

Bone-in thighs or drumsticks provide the most flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats very well and tastes better the next day.

Is this dish spicy?

Traditionally it is mild, but spice can be added if desired.

Can I freeze Chicken Asado?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

What can I use instead of tomato sauce?

Crushed tomatoes can work, simmered longer for thickness.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is optional but enhances flavor.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6–7 hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce to make it suitable.

What side dishes pair well?

Steamed rice and sautéed greens are ideal.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Simply lower the amount of brown sugar.

Conclusion

Filipino Chicken Asado Stew with tangy tomato soy glaze is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and adaptable nature, it is a reliable recipe that deserves a regular place in your home cooking rotation.

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