Chicken Caldereta Recipe: How to Make the Best Filipino Comfort Food at Home

Introduction to Chicken Caldereta

Chicken caldereta recipe is one of those dishes that grabs your attention from the first bite — warm, savory, slightly spicy, and full of rich, deep flavors that wrap around your soul like a blanket. Traditionally a goat or beef dish rooted in Spanish colonial history, the chicken version has taken on a life of its own in Filipino households.

This chicken caldereta recipe is a tomato-based chicken stew that’s hearty, affordable, and packed with vibrant ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes. And what really sets this chicken caldereta recipe apart? A secret ingredient: liver spread or pâté. But don’t worry — even if you’re not a liver lover, there are tasty substitutions (more on that later).

A beloved part of Philippine cuisine, Caldereta is a Filipino comfort food staple, often served during fiestas, birthdays, or just a chilly Sunday afternoon. It blends Spanish influences with Filipino ingenuity — a great example of how cultures mix beautifully on the dinner table. If you’re new to Filipino food, check out this Philippine cuisine overview to understand how this dish fits into the broader culinary landscape.

Why Chicken Caldereta is a Beloved Filipino Comfort Food

Filipino dishes are all about layers — of flavor, family tradition, and feel-good memories. This chicken caldereta recipe is no different. It’s more than just a chicken stew; it’s a mainstay at reunions, weddings, and weekend dinners. Ask any Filipino about their favorite chicken caldereta recipe, and chances are, they’ll start telling you about their mom’s or lola’s (grandmother’s) secret version.

Here’s why people love it:

• It’s comforting but festive. Caldereta brings warmth with its tomato-based sauce, but the ingredients — like bell peppers, liver spread, and cheese — turn it into something luxurious.
• It’s flexible. You can make it mild for the kids or load it with chili for a spicy chicken stew kick. Don’t like liver? Swap it for coconut milk and still get a creamy chicken caldereta that’s equally delicious.
• It’s practical. With ingredients you likely already have — chicken, carrots, potatoes, tomato sauce — it’s budget-friendly and ideal for meal prepping.

In fact, if you’re into spicy comfort food, you might also love this creamy white chicken chili for a spicy twist on comfort food, which offers a different kind of heat but the same warming satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Authentic Chicken Caldereta

Before we jump into the kitchen, let’s go through the caldereta ingredients list. You don’t need anything fancy, just honest, flavorful ingredients:

🥘 Basic Ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken (preferably bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks)
• 2 medium potatoes, cut into cubes
• 2 medium carrots, sliced diagonally
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp liver spread or pâté
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup water or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1–2 red chili peppers (optional for heat)

🧀 Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/2 cup grated cheese (for cheesy caldereta)
• 1/2 cup green peas
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (for creamy version)
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• Star anise (adds depth and aroma)
• Bouillon cubes for added umami

Whether you’re making the traditional Filipino recipes version or customizing your own chicken caldereta recipe, the ingredients are adjustable based on what’s in your pantry. This chicken caldereta recipe is that kind of dish — adaptable, forgiving, and always satisfying.

Prepping Like a Pro

The success of any stew, especially Caldereta, starts with solid preparation. Don’t just toss everything in the pot and hope for magic. There’s a rhythm to it.

🧂 Marinate First for Flavor

This isn’t optional — it’s essential. Marinating not only seasons the meat inside and out, but it also helps tenderize it. Here’s a quick go-to marinade:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 bay leaves

Let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes, but if you can spare it, 2–3 hours is better.

🔥 Sauté or Fry?

This is where preferences kick in when preparing your chicken caldereta recipe. Some like to sauté the chicken and aromatics (onions and garlic) together, while others pre-fry the chicken just enough to seal the outside. When making my chicken caldereta recipe, I personally like to lightly fry the potatoes and carrots first until they get a bit of a crust. Why? They’ll hold their shape better later — trust me, it’s worth the extra pan.

Pro Tip: Use medium heat when sautéing to avoid burning the garlic and ruining the base flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Chicken Caldereta

Alright, it’s go time! Let’s break it down so you can make this with confidence.

👩‍🍳 Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

• In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp of oil.
• Sauté onions until translucent.
• Add garlic and cook until fragrant (around 30 seconds).

👨‍🍳 Step 2: Add Chicken and Marinade

• Add the marinated chicken and sear it until slightly browned.
• This locks in juices and enhances the meat’s flavor.

🍅 Step 3: Build the Sauce

• Pour in the tomato sauce and a bit of water or broth.
• Add liver spread and stir until fully incorporated.
• Toss in bay leaves and optional bouillon cube.

🥕 Step 4: Add Carrots and Potatoes

• Add the pre-fried potatoes and carrots.
• Simmer for about 20 minutes until veggies are tender but not mushy.

🌶️ Step 5: Spice and Cheese It Up

• Add bell peppers, green peas, and chili if using.
• Stir in grated cheese if you want that creamy, salty finish.
• Simmer for another 10 minutes.

Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar. If it’s too thick, add more water or broth. Too thin? Let it simmer uncovered.

Done! Your homemade chicken caldereta is ready to serve hot with white rice.

Tips for the Perfect Caldereta Every Time

Making a chicken caldereta recipe isn’t rocket science, but a few smart techniques can seriously level up your dish. You’ve already got the ingredients and steps — now let’s make sure your chicken caldereta recipe comes out amazing every time.

🎯 Timing Is Everything

• Simmering is key. Don’t rush it. Letting the stew simmer gently allows all the flavors to meld together.
• Add vegetables in stages: potatoes and carrots first, then quick-cooking ingredients like bell peppers and peas later. This keeps everything from turning to mush.

💥 Get the Flavor Right

• Taste often. As it simmers, give it a taste and adjust. A splash of soy sauce, a bit more liver spread, or even a pinch of sugar can balance out acidity.
• Don’t be afraid of chili peppers. They bring a subtle heat that balances the richness. For those who like it spicy, you can chop them up and sauté with the aromatics for a fiery kick.

🥄 Make It Creamier or Spicier

• Want a creamy chicken caldereta? Stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk or grated cheddar cheese before serving.
• Need more heat? Crushed red pepper flakes or additional siling labuyo (bird’s eye chili) will do the trick.

📌 Bonus Tips

• Don’t skip the marination. It’s what makes the chicken flavorful down to the bone.
• If using frozen vegetables (like green peas), add them last — they only need a couple of minutes to warm through.
• Cook uncovered at the end to reduce the sauce slightly and intensify the flavors.

Stick to these tips, and your caldereta will be bursting with rich, comforting, and unforgettable flavors — every single time.

Regional and Personal Variations You’ll Love

One of the coolest things about any chicken caldereta recipe is how every family and region puts their own spin on it. What you get in Metro Manila might taste completely different from what’s simmering in a Batangas kitchen. And that’s the beauty of a chicken caldereta recipe — it’s adaptable.

🥥 Caldereta with Coconut Milk

A twist loved in southern regions. The coconut milk mellows out the tangy tomato base and adds a silky texture. Ideal if you want a Filipino chicken stew with a softer, more delicate flavor.

Tip: Use only half the usual tomato sauce if adding coconut milk to keep it balanced.

🧀 Cheesy Caldereta

Want that luscious finish? Add grated cheddar or processed cheese slices into the stew. It melts into the sauce and gives it a rich, comforting texture. Kids absolutely love this one.

🔥 Spicy Chicken Caldereta

Looking to wake up your tastebuds? Use lots of chili peppers, or better yet, crush a few and add them into the oil while sautéing the garlic. You’ll get a smoky heat that spreads throughout the stew.

You can even try an alternative twist like this creamy white chicken chili for a spicy twist on comfort food if you’re experimenting with bold flavors.

🛑 Caldereta Without Liver Spread

Some folks just aren’t into liver — and that’s totally fine. You can replace it with:

• 2 tbsp peanut butter (for creamy richness)
• 1/2 cup mashed liverwurst (if you still want depth without spread)
• Coconut milk or cheese as alternative thickening agents

With all these options, you can find the version of Caldereta that fits your taste — whether it’s traditional or totally custom.

Nutrition Breakdown and Diet Modifications

While a chicken caldereta recipe is classic comfort food, it doesn’t mean it can’t be adjusted to fit your health goals. With a few smart swaps, you can enjoy this flavorful chicken caldereta recipe while sticking to a more mindful diet.

🥗 Calories and Nutrients (Approximate per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	400–500 kcal
Protein	25–30g
Carbs	15–20g
Fat	20–25g
Fiber	3–5g

💡 Make It Healthier

• Use skinless chicken breast or thighs to reduce fat.
• Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes or cauliflower for lower carbs.
• Cut back on the liver spread or cheese — or use low-fat alternatives.
• Swap frying for roasting or steaming the veggies first.

🥘 Great for Meal Prep

This chicken caldereta recipe isn’t just healthy — it’s practical. You can cook a big batch, portion it out, and enjoy it for days. This chicken caldereta recipe reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

For those watching their cholesterol or sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth, go light on soy sauce, and consider skipping cheese or using plant-based options.

Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Chicken Caldereta is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. But here’s how to store it properly so nothing goes to waste.

🧊 Refrigerating

• Let the caldereta cool to room temperature.
• Store in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

❄️ Freezing

Perfect for busy folks. Caldereta freezes well for up to one month. Here’s how:

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Leave about an inch of space for expansion.
• Label the date and portion size for easier planning.

Reheat from frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a pot over low heat. Stir occasionally and add water if it’s too thick.

🔥 Quick Tips

• Avoid reheating in the microwave for long periods — it can make the chicken rubbery.
• Stir often while reheating to prevent scorching the bottom.
• Freeze without cheese and add it fresh when reheating, if possible.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or saving meals for the week, Chicken Caldereta is a make-ahead hero.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

You’ve cooked a flavorful pot using your chicken caldereta recipe — now what do you serve it with? While the dish itself is already hearty, the right sides can elevate your chicken caldereta recipe into a truly special meal.

🍚 Must-Have Side: White Rice

• Soft, fluffy steamed white rice is a must. It soaks up the sauce and balances the richness.
• For a healthier option, try brown rice or even quinoa.

🥖 Breads and More

• Warm pandesal or crusty bread can be used to mop up every drop of that rich sauce.
• Serve it with garlic bread for a Filipino-Spanish fusion twist.

🥗 Fresh Pairings

• A light ensaladang mangga (green mango salad) offers a refreshing contrast.
• Try a simple cucumber salad with vinegar and onions to cut the richness.

🍾 For Special Occasions

• Pair with a glass of sweet red wine or a tangy calamansi juice.
• Add lechon kawali, lumpiang shanghai, or pancit on the side for a fiesta-style feast.

With these sides, you’re not just serving a dish — you’re creating an experience. Gather your family, call some friends, and make it a mealtime to remember.

Chicken Caldereta vs Other Filipino Stews

Filipino cuisine has a variety of tomato-based stews, and while they may look similar at first glance, each has its own unique twist. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what sets a chicken caldereta recipe apart from the rest — and why this chicken caldereta recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

🍲 Caldereta vs Afritada

• Afritada also uses tomato sauce and vegetables like potatoes and bell peppers.
• But it doesn’t include liver spread or cheese, making it a bit lighter and more tangy.
• Afritada tends to be sweeter and milder.

🍖 Caldereta vs Menudo

• Menudo uses smaller cuts of pork and includes raisins and hotdogs, giving it a slightly sweet and festive taste.
• The sauce is similar but usually thinner than caldereta.

🥩 Caldereta vs Mechado

• Mechado involves beef marinated in soy sauce, calamansi, and garlic.
• It also uses a bit of fat inserted into the meat (traditional larding method), which Caldereta doesn’t.
• Mechado is more savory and uses less tomato.

🔍 So, What Makes Chicken Caldereta Special?

• It’s rich and savory thanks to the liver spread and optional cheese.
• It’s the most flexible stew — you can go creamy, spicy, or tangy depending on your taste.
• It’s often served at celebrations — a true centerpiece dish.

If you’re new to Filipino stews, a chicken caldereta recipe is the perfect place to start — it brings together everything we love about hearty, home-cooked meals. This chicken caldereta recipe delivers bold, comforting flavors in one unforgettable pot.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced cooks slip up sometimes. Here are the most common pitfalls when making Chicken Caldereta — and how to dodge them like a kitchen pro.

🚫 Overcooking the Chicken

• Chicken, especially bone-in cuts, only needs about 30–40 minutes of cooking time.
• Overcooking turns it rubbery or mushy. Stick to medium heat and monitor closely.

🚫 Adding Veggies Too Early

• Don’t add bell peppers or green peas with the chicken — they’ll get soggy.
• Add these in the last 10 minutes for the best texture.

🚫 Skipping the Sear

• Searing the chicken before stewing locks in the flavor and improves the texture.
• It’s worth the extra few minutes.

🚫 Not Balancing Flavors

• If it tastes too acidic from the tomatoes, balance it with a pinch of sugar.
• Too bland? Add a little more soy sauce, salt, or liver spread to amp up the umami.

Avoid these mistakes, and your Caldereta will come out restaurant-quality — every time.

Chicken Caldereta Around the Philippines

Like many Filipino dishes, the chicken caldereta recipe has regional twists that reflect local ingredients and tastes. From Luzon to Mindanao, every chicken caldereta recipe tells its own unique story.

🏝️ Luzon

• Tends to stick to traditional recipes with liver spread and cheese.
• You’ll often see it at fiestas and special gatherings.

🏞️ Visayas

• Some use coconut milk instead of cheese or liver for a creamy, mellow version.
• Influenced by local farming communities where fresh produce is abundant.

🌴 Mindanao

• Often spicier, with more chilies and spices.
• Some versions include peanut butter or tamarind for added complexity.

🏡 Urban vs Rural

• In cities, Caldereta is often served with store-bought liver spread and cheese.
• In the provinces, you might find homemade liver pâté or freshly squeezed coconut milk used instead.

The point is — there’s no one right way to make Chicken Caldereta. Use what you have, trust your taste buds, and embrace your own version.

Best Tools for Cooking Chicken Caldereta

You don’t need a professional kitchen to make a chicken caldereta recipe, but having the right tools can make preparing your chicken caldereta recipe easier and more enjoyable.

🍳 Must-Haves

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution and long simmers.
• Sharp chef’s knife: For cleanly slicing veggies and chicken.
• Cutting board: One for meat, one for vegetables — for food safety.

⏲️ Nice-to-Haves

• Slow cooker: Great for busy days. Toss in all ingredients (minus delicate veggies) and come back to a perfectly stewed dish in 4–6 hours.
• Wooden spoon: Best for stirring without scratching your pot.

🔥 Pro Cooking Tips

• Use medium-low heat to let flavors develop gradually.
• Cover the pot while simmering to trap in moisture and keep chicken juicy.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially when using cheese or liver spread.

With just a few tools and a bit of patience, you’ll have a pot of soul-warming Chicken Caldereta that’s worth every minute.

Final Thoughts: Make It Yours

There’s something deeply nostalgic about a chicken caldereta recipe — whether it’s the smell that fills your kitchen or the way it brings people to the table. This chicken caldereta recipe is a celebration of Filipino flavors, culture, and family. It’s bold, comforting, and endlessly customizable.

Whether you like it cheesy, spicy, creamy, or classic, the chicken caldereta recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Cook it once, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for gatherings, rainy days, or just a hearty meal after a long day.

From one home cook to another: make it your own, share it with the people you love, and let the flavors tell your story.

FAQs

1. Can I make chicken caldereta without liver spread?

Yes, you can! If your chicken caldereta recipe calls for liver spread, you can substitute it with coconut milk, peanut butter, or skip it entirely. Each substitute will give your chicken caldereta recipe a different flavor profile, so choose based on your taste preference.

2. What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks are the best for flavor and texture. They stay juicy during simmering and add depth to the broth. You can use boneless if you prefer quicker cooking.

3. Can I use coconut milk instead of tomato sauce?

Not as a full replacement, but you can use coconut milk with tomato sauce to make a creamy caldereta. Replace 1/3 of the tomato sauce with coconut milk for a milder, creamier twist.

4. How long can I store leftovers?

Store your chicken caldereta recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This chicken caldereta recipe also freezes well for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stove with a bit of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

5. What other dishes are similar to caldereta?

Try Afritada, Mechado, or Menudo — all are tomato-based stews with unique flavors. But if you’re craving something richer, a chicken caldereta recipe stands out for its depth and creaminess. Each chicken caldereta recipe variation offers a comforting take on Filipino cuisine that’s worth exploring.