I’ve always had a soft spot for comforting rice meals with bold, rich flavors. Growing up around diverse Filipino dishes, I kept coming back to one unforgettable favorite—the chicken pastil recipe. After the first bite, I knew it was something special.
The vibrant yellow rice, seasoned with turmeric, paired perfectly with the tender, savory shredded chicken. It’s simple, but every element brings warmth and depth. I love how it’s wrapped in banana leaves—it adds a subtle aroma that makes it even better.
I make this dish when I need something familiar, filling, and deeply satisfying. As a food blogger and recipe expert, I always recommend it for anyone craving a taste of Mindanao’s flavorful cuisine in their own kitchen.
How To Prepare chicken pastil recipe?
Recipe Overview
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Course: Main Course
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Cuisine: Filipino (Maguindanaon)
- Yield: 6 servings
Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for boiling chicken)
- Frying pan or skillet
- Rice cooker or saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs or spatula
- Banana leaves or food containers for serving
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 350g chicken breast, boiled and shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red onion, minced 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons white or brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (optional
- 2 tablespoons margarine (optional
- ½ cup cooking oil
For the Rice:
- 2 cups rice3 cups water
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- For Garnish:
- Hard-boiled eggs, halved
- Sliced cucumberSliced tomatoes
- Banana leaves for wrapping (optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
- Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. In a pot or rice cooker, combine the rice, water, and turmeric powder.
- Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed the vibrant yellow hue from the turmeric.
2. Cook the Chicken
- In a large pot, boil the chicken breast with a pinch of salt until fully cooked.
- Once cooled, shred the chicken into fine pieces.
- In a frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the shredded chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and turmeric powder. Stir well and let it simmer until the liquid reduces and the chicken absorbs the flavors.
- For added richness, stir in margarine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Assemble the Pastil
- If using banana leaves, pass them over an open flame briefly to make them pliable.
- Place a portion of turmeric rice onto the center of the banana leaf or serving container.
- Top with a generous amount of the sautéed chicken.
- Garnish with slices of hard-boiled egg, cucumber, and tomato.
- Wrap the banana leaf securely or cover the container
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Chicken Pastil warm, accompanied by a side of fresh cucumber and tomato slices.
- Pair with a refreshing beverage like calamansi juice or iced tea.
- For an authentic experience, enjoy it wrapped in banana leaves, which imparts a subtle aroma to the dish.
Tips and Variations
- Rice Texture: Ensure the rice is fluffy and not overly sticky to complement the texture of the shredded chicken.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of black pepper or add chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with beef or tuna for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate. Best consumed within 2 days.
Health Benefits
- High Protein: Chicken provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Balanced Meal: Combining protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables
How To Store
To store leftover chicken pastil, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it. Just wrap the pastil in plastic wrap or foil before storing it in a freezer-safe container.
When ready to enjoy, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days!
Conclusion
I always find comfort in dishes like Chicken Pastil Recipe it’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with character. What I love most about this recipe is how it bridges simplicity and tradition.
With turmeric-infused rice and savory shredded chicken, it feels like a warm hug from Mindanao’s culinary roots. Whether I prepare it for a quick lunch, a potluck, or just because I’m craving something soulful, it never fails to satisfy.
So if you’re looking for something that’s rich in flavor, easy enough to prepare on a weeknight, and just a bit different from your usual chicken and rice combo, try this Chicken Pastil. I promise—it’s not just food, it’s a story on a plate.