This Quick and Simple Chicken Afritada is a slow cooker lifesaver for busy days! Lean chicken simmers in a light tomato sauce with potatoes, carrots, and peas—perfect for a healthy breakfast. Prep it fast, let it cook overnight, and wake up to a warm, flavorful Filipino-inspired morning boost!
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Quick Prep: Chop veggies the night before to save even more time.
- Lighten Up: Skip heavy thickeners—keep the sauce brothy for a breakfast vibe.
- Low Heat: Cook on low overnight for tender chicken without overcooking.
- Portion Control: Use smaller veggie cuts for faster flavor melding in less time.
- Morning Finish: Stir in peas at the end—they cook quick and stay bright.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, you’re going to adore this Quick and Simple Chicken Afritada—it’s a busy-day breakfast dream come true! You’ll love how this slow cooker gem turns a handful of ingredients into a warm, nourishing meal that’s ready when you roll out of bed, perfect for those hectic mornings when you barely have time to breathe. The lean chicken breast cooks to tender perfection in a light, tangy tomato sauce, mingling with wholesome veggies like potatoes, carrots, and peas—giving you a healthy, flavorful start without the guilt.
It’s a Filipino classic made simple and breakfast-friendly, with all the prep done in a flash before you let the crockpot work its overnight magic. Imagine waking up to that savory aroma, knowing a hearty, satisfying meal is waiting—no rush, no fuss, just pure comfort to fuel your day. It’s ideal for busy folks who crave something homemade and healthy, and it’s so easy you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner—this recipe’s a morning game-changer!
Quick and Simple Chicken Afritada for Busy Days
Simple chicken in tomato sauce with veggies, slow-cooked—healthy breakfast ease!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 cup baby potatoes, halved (or 1 large potato, cubed)
- 1 large carrot, thinly sliced
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low-sodium, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon each)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: cooked rice, toast, or a fried egg for serving
Instructions
- Hey there, let’s whip up a Quick and Simple Chicken Afritada that’ll save your busy mornings! Grab your slow cooker and, if you’ve got a skillet and a spare minute, heat that olive oil over medium-high and sear the chicken pieces—just 1-2 minutes per side for a golden touch. It’s optional, but it adds a little morning magic! Once done, toss the chicken into your crockpot.
- Now, pile in the chopped onion, minced garlic, halved baby potatoes, and thinly sliced carrot—they’re about to turn into a quick veggie party. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, then add a splash of soy sauce if you’re using it, plus salt and pepper—give it a quick stir to coat everything in that tangy, savory goodness.
- It’s already looking like a breakfast win! Pop the lid on, set it to low for 6 hours (perfect for overnight), or high for 3 if you’re starting early, and let it simmer away—no fuss, no rush.
- When it’s ready—probably when your alarm’s buzzing—the chicken should be tender and the veggies just right. Stir in the frozen peas—they’ll warm up in a flash—and give it a taste; tweak the salt or pepper if it needs a little love.
- Ladle it into bowls, sprinkle some fresh parsley or green onions on top for that bright pop, and serve it up—maybe with a fried egg, a scoop of rice, or even toast for that breakfast vibe. Grab a spoon and dig in—this is slow-cooked simplicity that’s healthy, hearty, and ready when you are!
Notes
- Prep the night before—dump it in and wake up to breakfast!
- Add peas at the end—keeps them green and snappy.
- Great for meal prep—portion it out for grab-and-go mornings!
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per ServingCalories 268Total Fat 7gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 95mgSodium 316mgCarbohydrates 22gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 28g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Chicken Breast: Lean and quick-cooking, perfect for a light breakfast—thighs add richer flavor if you prefer.
- Tomato Sauce: Low-sodium canned keeps it simple and healthy—fresh tomatoes need more prep but work.
- Potatoes: Baby potatoes or small cubes cook fast—red or Yukon Gold hold their shape.
- Carrots: Thin slices add sweetness and nutrition—pre-cut saves time.
- Peas: Frozen peas bring a pop of green—add late for freshness.
- Garlic and Onion: Fresh minced garlic and chopped onion build flavor—powdered versions are quick subs.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium keeps it light and breakfast-appropriate—water works in a pinch.
- Olive Oil: A splash for sautéing (optional)—keeps it healthy and flavorful.
Variations and Substitutions
This Afritada loves a tweak for busy mornings! Swap chicken breast for turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken to skip cooking it fresh—saves even more time. No tomato sauce? Use diced tomatoes or a splash of salsa for a quick twist. Trade potatoes for sweet potatoes or skip them for cauliflower to lighten it up. Swap peas for green beans, spinach, or corn—whatever’s in your freezer. Want a kick? Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika. Gluten-free? It’s naturally there—just check your broth. Vegetarian? Try tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken—they’ll soak up the sauce nicely. Serve over a scrambled egg, quinoa, or toast instead of rice for a breakfast spin—this dish bends to your schedule and taste!
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days—perfect for meal prep!
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth, or microwave in short bursts.
Dish Gallery
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