Chicken Pastil Recipe
Chicken Pastil is a beloved Filipino dish that combines simple ingredients to create a savory and satisfying meal. Often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack, this flavorful recipe features shredded Chicken seasoned with soy and turmeric, giving it an earthy flavor. Wrapped in banana leaves and served with steamed rice or even human, it’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With a mix of boiled eggs and the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet notes, Chicken Pastil is the kind of meal that feels like home, no matter where you’re from. Whether you’re new to Filipino food or looking to explore more of the country’s vibrant dishes, Chicken Pastil is worth trying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for leftovers:
If you’ve ever had leftover rotisserie chicken in your fridge, you know it can be hard to decide what to do. Luckily, Chicken Pastil is the perfect solution. It takes your leftover Chicken and turns it into a whole new, flavorful dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe offers a delicious way to breathe new life into last night’s meal.
Easy one-pan meal:
If you love a meal with minimal cleanup, this one-pan recipe is just what you need. From sautéing garlic and onion to simmering the shredded Chicken in the soy sauce and other seasonings, everything comes together in one pan. This makes the preparation quick and straightforward, and the best part is there’s less to clean up afterward, leaving you with more time to relax.
Nutrient-packed:
Adding turmeric is not only a visual treat, adding vibrant color to the dish, but it also brings various health benefits. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and rich antioxidants, turmeric makes Chicken Pasta a tasty and nourishing meal. So, you can enjoy a flavorful dish while benefiting from its natural goodness.
Bursting with flavor:
One of the standout features of this recipe is how the tender chicken pairs so perfectly with the fragrant rice. The dish becomes irresistible with the savory soy sauce and a touch of vinegar, bringing out the Chicken’s depth of flavor. The balance of spices, the richness of the rice, and the turmeric make every bite a flavorful experience.
Family-friendly:
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just the family, Chicken Pastil is a dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s wholesome, nutrient-packed, and versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters. The savory Chicken and rice combination is familiar yet unique, and it’s a recipe that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. The best part is it’s a simple, one-pot meal that won’t take hours to make, so it’s perfect for busy evenings.
What is Pastel?
Pastil, also known as Patel, Patil, or Pater in Muslim Mindanao, is a delicious Filipino dish often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. This traditional dish originates from the Maguindanao people and is made with steamed rice topped with savory, shredded meat. The meat can be Chicken, beef, or cooked with onion, garlic, and soy sauce for a rich, spicy flavor. Pastil’s eco-friendly packaging makes it unique—it’s traditionally wrapped in banana leaves, giving it a distinct and portable presentation that adds an extra layer of flavor as it absorbs the aroma from the leaves.
The dish is also served with fried eggs and pickled vegetables, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Banana leaves enhance the taste and reflect the Muslim influence in the region, making it a perfect example of cultural heritage. Whether you enjoy it wrapped in banana leaves or served in a bowl, Pastil is a portable, flavorful delight perfect for those on the go. The best part is that it’s customizable, so you can adapt it based on what you have!
Ingredients:
- Rotisserie Chicken Breast shredded: Use tender, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken breast or boiled and sliced chicken breast for an easy, protein-packed base.
- Garlic: Adds a rich, aromatic depth of flavor that enhances the dish’s overall taste.
- Onion: Provides a savory sweetness and balance to the dish’s bold flavors.
- Turmeric powder: This ingredient infuses the dish with a warm, earthy flavor and vibrant yellow color while adding nutritional benefits.
- Vinegar: Adds a tangy, slightly acidic contrast to balance out the rich flavors.
- Soy sauce: Provides umami richness, adding depth and a savory note to the dish.
- Oyster sauce: Brings a sweet and salty richness that complements the other savory elements.
- Sugar: Balances the acidity and adds a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
- Bay leaves: Infuse the dish with a subtle, herbaceous aroma during cooking.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and fine-tune the overall flavor.
- Banana leaves for wrapping (optional): Traditional wrapping for Pastil that adds a hint of natural aroma and presentation appeal.
- Hard-boiled eggs for serving (optional) are a classic accompaniment that adds extra protein and richness to the dish.
How to Cook Chicken Pastil
Cooking Chicken Pastil is easy and perfect for a delicious meal any day of the week. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making this savory dish.
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Sauté Aromatics:
Start by heating oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn soft and translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant.
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Cook the Chicken:
Next, add the shredded Chicken to the pan. Let it cook for a minute or two, allowing the Chicken to absorb the flavors of the aromatics. Be sure to mix everything well.
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Season the Chicken:
Add the key seasonings—soy sauce, turmeric, black pepper, and brown sugar. Stir to combine and ensure the Chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. The turmeric will give the dish its vibrant yellow color, and the soy sauce will bring out a rich, savory flavor.
- Add Water and Simmer:
Pour in some water to help create a sauce and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes. The Chicken will become tender during this time, and the flavors will meld together beautifully. If you’d like a little heat, add a chili pepper during this step, depending on your spice preference.
- Taste and Adjust:
Add salt and pepper to taste. This step is essential for bringing all the flavors together and adjusting the seasoning to your liking. If needed, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
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Wrapping in Banana Leaves:
It’s time to serve once everything is cooked and the flavors have come together! Traditionally, Chicken Paste is wrapped in banana leaves for a delicious, eco-friendly presentation. Take one banana leaf and place a portion of steamed rice on it. Top the rice with a generous amount of the seasoned shredded chicken mixture. Fold the banana leaf to form a parcel or pouch, securing it closed. The banana leaf will infuse the dish with a pleasant, aromatic flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy:
After wrapping, Chicken Pastil is ready to be enjoyed. You can serve it as-is or add a fried egg and pickled vegetables on the side for extra flavor and texture. This makes the meal even more satisfying, adding richness to the egg and a refreshing contrast from the vegetables.
What To Serve With Dish
- Steamed Rice: Pairs perfectly with Chicken Pastil, allowing the flavorful Chicken and turmeric seasoning to shine.
- Filipino Cucumber Salad (Ensaladang Pipino) is a refreshing side dish with sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and a touch of sugar for a tangy crunch.
- Ginisang Toge (Sautéed Bean Sprouts) is a light and healthy side dish with garlic and onions, which add a delicious, crunchy texture.
- Garlic Fried Rice (Sinangag) elevates the meal with an aromatic, savory twist that complements the bold flavors of the ChickPapayachara (Pickled PPapaya, a sweet and tangy Filipino side dish that cuts through the richness of the pastil with vibrant flavors.
- Tortang Talong (Eggplant Omelette): A hearty eggplant omelet that adds variety and complements the dish with its mild flavor and satisfying texture.
Variations
- Coconut Milk Chicken Pastil: Replace some water with coconut milk to give the dish a creamy and fragrant twist.
- Spicy Pastil: Add chopped peppers or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Pastil: Add diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and peas to the chicken mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Adobo Pastil: Remove turmeric powder to create a version with flavors closer to Adobo.
- Crispy Pastil: Add more avocado oil and cook until the liquid evaporates, resulting in a crispy texture.
- Protein Alternatives: Instead of Chicken, beef or boneless fish for a different protein base.
- Rice Options: Use short-grain or medium-grain rice, and mix in a little glutinous rice to help the rice maintain its shape.
- Wrapping Choices: While banana leaves are traditional for wrapping, you can use Pandan leaves as a substitute.
- Meal Flexibility: This dish is perfect for any meal, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Chicken Pastil: A Simple One-Pan Meal
Chicken Pasta is a wonderfully easy and convenient dish that requires only one pan. This means less hassle when it comes to cleanup and makes cooking quicker. A solid skillet or frying pan is all you need to sauté the ingredients and let the chicken simmer in its rich, flavorful sauce. Using just one pan, the flavors can combine and enhance each other, giving you a tasty, fuss-free meal.
This one-pan method makes Chicken Pasta ideal for busy weeknights when you don’t have much time or energy to clean up afterward. It is delicious, but it’s also incredibly convenient, saving time without sacrificing flavor. With just a handful of essential ingredients, Chicken Pasta becomes a reliable go-to for making simple yet satisfying meals during the week.
Storing Chicken Pastil for Future Meals
Handling Leftovers:
Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can easily be stored for future meals. However, if you have leftovers, it’s essential to handle them properly.
Refrigeration for Freshness:
- Due to its vinegar content, Chicken Pastil can stay at room temperature for a short time.
- For optimal freshness and safety, iit’sbest to refrigerate it as soon as possible.
- When stored in the refrigerator, it will last up to a week.
Freezing for Longer Storage:
If you want to keep it longer:
- Store leftovers in a freezer-safe container or resealable bags.
- Frozen Chicken Pastil will last up to 2-3 months.
Thawing and Enjoying Later:
- When ready to enjoy it again, shaw it out and enjoy it as a quick meal.
This simple storage method ensures your Chicken Pastil remains flavorful and safe to eat later.
Tips for Making Delicious Chicken Pastil
Mellowing the Vinegar:
One of the best tips for achieving the best flavor in Chicken Pasta is to simmer the vinegar with the other sauce ingredients for 15-20 minutes. This allows the sharpness to mellow out and the flavors to meld together, creating a more balanced taste.
Cooking Slowly for Flavor Development:
Slowly putting the ingredients in the cooker is essential as it helps develop a more complex and flavorful taste.
Using Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience:
A rotisserie chicken from the grocery store can save you time and effort when making Chicken Pastil, especially on busy weekdays.
Adjusting the Spice Level:
You can easily adjust the didish’spiciness by adding more or less chili pepper, depending on how hot you want it.
Serving Suggestions:
Once ready, serve your Chicken Pastil on:
- Steamed white rice
- Tortilla shells
- A salad
This makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 500 grams chicken breast (boiled and shredded)
- 2 medium onions (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- ¼ cup oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 dry bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- Banana leaves (for wrapping, optional)
- Hard-boiled eggs (for serving, optional)
- Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes (optional)
- Thai red chili (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Boiling and Shredding the Chicken
- Pour water into a large pot and add the chicken breast.
- Boil for 15 minutes or until the Chicken is cooked and soft.
- Drain the water and transfer the Chicken to a plate.
- Once cooled, shred the Chicken into small pieces using your hands or a fork. Set aside.
2. Cooking the Chicken (Kagikit)
- Heat a skillet pan over medium heat and add vegetable oil.
- Once hot, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the shredded Chicken and stir well.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and vinegar.
- Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, black pepper, and sugar. Mix everything to combine.
- Toss in the dry bay leaves and continue cooking for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Remove from heat.
3. Serving the Chicken Pastil
- Spread cooked white rice on a plate or a banana leaf and shape it into a rectangular form.
- Place a generous amount of shredded Chicken (Kagikit) on the rice.
- Alternatively, serve with hard-boiled eggs, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or Thai red chili for extra spice.
- If using banana leaves, wrap the rice and Chicken to form a parcel for a traditional look.
- Enjoy your Chicken Pastil while warm!
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier version, add green or red chilies while cooking.
- Banana leaves add aroma but are optional, especially if you plan to store leftovers.
- For a crispy texture, cook longer until the liquid evaporates and the Chicken turns slightly golden.
- Short-grain or medium-grain rice works best, but mixing with glutinous rice can help hold its shape better.
Nutrition
Nutrition Value (Per Full Recipe)
- Total Calories: 2,376 kcal
- Protein: 155 g
- Carbohydrates: 147.25 g
- Fat: 73.3 g
per serving
- Calories: 410kcal
- Carbohydrates: 78g
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Potassium: 1280mg
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Calcium: 290mg
- Iron: 3.8mg
Notes: Chicken Pastil recipe
This Chicken Pastil Recipe is a delicious, simple, and versatile dish that can be adjusted to fit your taste. Whether you like it spicy, creamy, or crispy, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. With easy storage options and flexible serving methods, this dish is perfect for busy weekdays or a hearty meal anytime.
Now you have the complete guide to Chicken Pastil, including ingredients, cooking instructions, variations, storage tips, and nutrition facts. Enjoy making this classic Filipino dish at home! 🍽️
Conclusion:
Chicken Pastil is a flavorful, easy-to-make Filipino dish that highlights savory, shredded Chicken, aromatic turmeric, and the unique aroma of banana leaves. Its one-pan cooking method makes it perfect for busy days, while its customizable ingredients allow endless variations. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast, snack, or main meal, Chicken Pastil offers comfort, convenience, and rich cultural heritage in every bite!
FAQs About Chicken Pastil
Q: What is Chicken Pastil?
Ans: Chicken Pastil is a traditional Filipino dish from Muslim Mindanao. It consists of steamed rice topped with shredded Chicken (Kagikit) cooked in soy sauce, vinegar, turmeric, and spices. The dish is often wrapped in banana leaves for added aroma and portability.
Q: What makes Chicken Pastil unique?
Ans: Chicken Pastil is distinct because of its banana leaf wrapping, which enhances its flavor and aroma. The dish has balanced, savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic turmeric notes, making it a flavorful and convenient meal.
Q: Can I use other meats instead of Chicken?
Ans: Yes! Traditional Pastil can also be made with beef or fish, offering a different but equally delicious dish version while keeping the same seasoning and cooking method.
Q: How can I make Chicken Pastil healthier?
Ans: You can make Chicken Pastil healthier by using brown rice instead of white rice, reducing the soy sauce and oil for a lower sodium and fat content, and adding vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Q: How long does Chicken Pastil last, and how should I store it?
Ans: Refrigerated Chicken pappas can Be Stored for up to 5 days, while frozen pappas can be stored for 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen Pappasts in the refrigerator overnight and steam or microwave them before serving.
Q: Can I make Chicken Pastil spicy?
Ans: Absolutely! Add Thai red chillchilipped peppers or chillchilies while cooking to give the dish an extra spicy kick.
Q: What are the best side dishes to serve with Chicken Pastil?
Ans: ChickPastatil pairs well with hard-boiled eggs, cucumber salPapayachara (picklpapaya)aya, sautéed bean sprouts, or garlic fried rice, adding more depth and balance to the meal.
Chicken Pastil
Equipment
- Large pan or skillet – For cooking the chicken and seasonings.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping ingredients.
- Mixing bowl – For preparing sauces and seasonings.
- Banana leaves (optional) – For traditional wrapping.
Ingredients
- 500 grams chicken breast boiled and shredded
- 2 medium onions chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- ¼ cup oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 dry bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- Banana leaves for wrapping, optional
- Hard-boiled eggs for serving, optional
- Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes optional
- Thai red chili optional, for heat
Instructions
- Boiling and Shredding the Chicken
- Pour water into a large pot and add the chicken breast.
- Boil for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked and soft.
- Drain the water and transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Once cooled, shred the chicken into small pieces using your hands or a fork. Set aside.
- Cooking the Chicken (Kagikit)
- Heat a skillet pan over medium heat and add vegetable oil.
- Once hot, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the shredded chicken and stir well.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and vinegar.
- Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, black pepper, and sugar. Mix everything to combine.
- Toss in the dry bay leaves and continue cooking for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Remove from heat.
- Serving the Chicken Pastil
- Spread cooked white rice on a plate or a banana leaf and shape it into a rectangular form.
- Place a generous amount of shredded chicken (Kagikit) on the rice.
- Alternatively, serve with hard-boiled eggs, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, or Thai red chili for extra spice.
- If using banana leaves, wrap the rice and chicken to form a parcel for a traditional look.
- Enjoy your Chicken Pastil while warm!
Notes
Customise with toppings like hard-boiled eggs, cucumbers, tomatoes, or chili.
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for 2-3 months.
Adjust sweetness and saltiness based on preference by modifying sugar and soy sauce.
