Intro

There’s something magical about a dish that feels like home in every bite. For me, that’s chicken pochero. From the first time I tried it, I was hooked. It’s one of those recipes that hugs you from the inside out, warm and hearty, filled with flavors that are comforting yet exciting. Today, I want to share with you my take on this beloved Filipino classic, along with tips, tricks, and little secrets I’ve learned over the years.

If you’ve ever wanted a dish that’s perfect for a rainy day, a casual family dinner, or even just to impress friends with something genuinely heartwarming, chicken pochero recipe is your answer. It’s more than food—it’s an experience.

What is Chicken Pochero?

Okay, let’s get into it. Chicken pochero is a Filipino stew, kind of like the cousin of our famous pork or beef pochero, but with chicken. It’s rich, slightly sweet, and tangy, often flavored with tomatoes, saba bananas, potatoes, chorizo, and sometimes chickpeas. Each region—or even each family—has its own spin.

I remember my first encounter with chicken pochero. My aunt served it during a Sunday family gathering, and I couldn’t stop smelling the aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and sweet plantains as I entered the kitchen. When I took my first bite, the soft chicken melted in my mouth, and the subtle sweetness of the bananas balanced perfectly with the savory broth.

It was like a warm, edible hug. That memory stuck with me, and now, making chicken pochero recipe has become a ritual in my kitchen whenever I want to feel cozy or spoil my family.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Pochero

There’s something so versatile about this dish. It’s not just a stew—you can adjust it to your taste. Want it a bit sweeter? Add more saba bananas. Prefer it tangier? A squeeze of calamansi or a splash of vinegar does the trick. It’s forgiving, comforting, and utterly satisfying. And the best part? You only need one pot to make it!

Another reason I adore chicken pochero is how it brings people together. The moment you place that steaming pot on the table, people just gather around. The aroma alone makes everyone hungry, and by the time you serve it, you’re guaranteed smiles all around.

Equipment List

Before we dive in, let’s talk about what you’ll need in the kitchen. The great thing about chicken pochero is that it doesn’t require fancy tools.

A large pot or Dutch oven – this is essential for that slow-cooked depth of flavor.
A wooden spoon – because stirring with anything else just doesn’t feel right.
Knife and cutting board – for prepping the chicken and vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons – for the seasonings (though sometimes, I just go by taste).
Serving ladle – to make dishing it out effortless.

Optional but helpful:

Strainer or colander – if you like to rinse the chickpeas or any other legumes.
Soup ladle – for serving individual bowls.

Honestly, the heart of this dish is simple ingredients and love, not complex gadgets. That’s part of its charm.

Ingredients

Now let’s talk about the star players. Here’s what you’ll need for my version of the chicken pochero recipe:

For the Chicken:

1 whole chicken, cut into serving pieces (or about 2–3 lbs of chicken thighs and drumsticks)
2 tablespoons cooking oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Stew:

1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium tomatoes, chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and quartered
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
1 small can of chickpeas, drained
2–3 saba bananas, peeled and cut into chunks (ripe but firm)
2–3 pieces of Spanish chorizo, sliced
4 cups chicken broth or water
2 tablespoons fish sauce (or to taste)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of your bananas)
Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish

Optional Extras:

Cabbage or green beans for added greens
Bay leaf for extra depth
Black peppercorns for a subtle kick

Instructions

Here’s how I like to make chicken pochero, step by step. I promise it’s simple and fun:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat your pot with cooking oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken until it’s lightly golden on all sides. This step gives the stew a beautiful depth of flavor that’s worth every second. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and soft. Then toss in the chopped tomatoes. Stir and let the tomatoes break down, releasing their natural juices. At this point, your kitchen is already smelling amazing!

Step 3: Build the Broth

Return the chicken to the pot. Add chicken broth or water. Stir in the fish sauce and, if you like, a bay leaf. Bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20–30 minutes. This is where the chicken starts absorbing all the delicious flavors of the aromatics.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Chickpeas

Add potatoes, carrots, and chickpeas. These ingredients cook in the broth and soak up the savory goodness. Continue simmering until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.

Step 5: Sweeten It Up with Saba Bananas

Here comes my favorite part: adding the saba bananas. They add natural sweetness and a unique texture that makes this stew feel special. Gently stir them in and simmer for another 10 minutes.

Step 6: Finish with Chorizo

Lastly, toss in the sliced chorizo. Its smoky, slightly spicy flavor elevates the stew and adds a little flair. Let it heat through for a few minutes. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the chicken pochero into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or scallions, and serve it with steamed rice. Watch everyone’s faces light up—it’s pure joy in a bowl!

Tips for the Best Chicken Pochero

Chicken choice matters: I prefer bone-in pieces because they make the broth richer. But boneless works too if you want a lighter stew.
Balancing flavors: Taste as you go. The sweetness of bananas should complement, not overpower.
Cook low and slow: Let the stew simmer gently. It allows the flavors to marry perfectly.
Customize with veggies: Some like cabbage, green beans, or bell peppers. I often mix it up depending on what’s fresh in my kitchen.
Make it ahead: Chicken pochero tastes even better the next day. The flavors deepen overnight.

Why This Recipe Works

I love this recipe because it’s flexible and forgiving. Even if you swap out some vegetables or adjust the sweetness, it still comes out delicious. The combination of savory chicken, sweet bananas, and hearty vegetables is irresistible. Every bite tells a story, and it’s perfect for sharing.

Personal Story: My Family and Pochero

I still remember cooking my first pot of chicken pochero for my family. I was nervous, trying not to overcook the chicken or make it too sweet. When we all sat down at the table, my kids dug in, and my husband kept asking for seconds. That night, I realized that food isn’t just about taste—it’s about connection, memory, and love. Chicken pochero has that magic, and I’m grateful every time I cook it.

Variations to Try

Creamy Pochero: Some people like to add a bit of evaporated milk for a richer, creamier broth.
Spicy Pochero: Toss in a few chili slices for a kick of heat.
Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for shrimp or fish for a lighter version.

No matter the variation, the core essence of chicken pochero recipe remains the same: warmth, comfort, and a balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Pairing Ideas

I often serve this stew with:

Steamed white rice – the classic pairing.
Garlic fried rice – for an extra punch of flavor.
Fresh bread – perfect for soaking up the broth.
A light salad – balances the richness of the stew.

And for drinks? A simple iced tea or calamansi juice keeps things refreshing without competing with the flavors.

Storing and Reheating

Chicken pochero is fantastic as leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove so the chicken doesn’t dry out. If the broth thickens too much overnight, just add a splash of water or stock. The flavors get even more intense after a day, making it perfect for meal prep or family lunches.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one dish that captures comfort, family, and a bit of magic in the kitchen, it’s this chicken pochero recipe. It’s approachable enough for a weekday dinner yet special enough for celebrations. Cooking it is a joy, sharing it is a pleasure, and eating it…well, that’s an experience you’ll want to repeat.

From my kitchen to yours, I hope this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and happiness to your table. Cooking isn’t just about feeding people—it’s about creating memories, one pot at a time. And with chicken pochero, those memories are rich, sweet, and utterly delicious.

So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and dive in. Your family will thank you, your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll have a new favorite comfort dish to treasure.

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