Chicken Pochero: Tomato Chicken with Saba Bananas
Pochero is a Filipino stew in a savory tomato broth with plantains, cabbage and potatoes. The chicken version is lighter than the pork or beef one but keeps the sweet and salty character.
About Chicken Pochero
Chicken pochero is a Filipino stew in a savory tomato broth with saba bananas, potatoes, chickpeas and leafy vegetables. It is lighter than the pork or beef versions but keeps the sweet-and-salty character that defines pochero.
Pochero is a Filipino adaptation of Spanish puchero, a stew of meat and vegetables. This chicken version is lighter and quicker than the beef or pork ones, but it keeps the sweet-savory balance from saba bananas, tomato sauce and fish sauce. If you prefer the Visayan style with a clear broth, try the Ilonggo-style pork pochero.
Ingredient notes
- Saba bananas: a starchy, slightly sweet cooking banana that holds its shape in the stew.
- Tomato sauce: gives the broth its color and tang; use plain sauce.
- Chickpeas: add protein and body.
- Leafy greens: bok choy or cabbage added at the end for freshness.
Tips for the best Chicken Pochero
- Brown the chicken first for flavor.
- Add the bananas and potatoes together so they finish at the same time.
- Add the leafy greens at the end.
- Taste the broth before adding more fish sauce.
What to serve with Chicken Pochero
Serve with steamed rice and a dip of fish sauce with calamansi.
Variations and substitutions
- Pork pochero: for the Visayan style with a clear broth, see Ilonggo's Pork Pochero.
- Add chorizo: a few slices add smoky depth.
- More tomatoes: add fresh tomatoes for extra acidity.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. The bananas and potatoes soften on reheating. Freeze the broth and chicken without the vegetables for up to 2 months.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between pork and chicken pochero?
The cooking method is the same, but chicken cooks faster and gives a lighter broth.
Can I skip the saba bananas?
They are traditional, but you can use plantain or extra potato.
Is pochero the same as cocido?
They are related. Pochero is the Filipino adaptation of the Spanish stew, with local ingredients like saba bananas.
Can I use plantains?
Yes, firm plantains are a good substitute for saba.
