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Philippines · Food

Chicken Piaparan

45 min
490 kcal
6 servings

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Chicken Piaparan🇵🇭Lokalpedia · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

13 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Chicken Piaparan. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Stew404 recipes from 26 countriesSee all 13 matches

A vibrant Maranao delicacy from the Southern Philippines, featuring chicken cooked in a rich, golden turmeric-infused coconut sauce. This dish is celebrated for its unique nuttiness derived from toasted grated coconut.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Chicken Piaparan from another cuisine is Ayam Masak Lemak Cili Api (Malaysia): the two share 75% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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Adapt this recipe:
6 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    Toast 80 g of grated coconut in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown, then set aside.

  • 2

    In a large wok, sauté the chopped onion, sliced ginger, and garlic in a little oil until fragrant.

  • 3

    Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes until the outside turns opaque.

  • 4

    Stir in the turmeric powder and salt, ensuring every piece of chicken is evenly coated.

  • 5

    Pour in the coconut milk and add the chili pods, bringing the mixture to a slow simmer.

  • 6

    Add the toasted grated coconut to the pot to thicken the sauce and add deep, toasted flavor.

  • 7

    Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, checking occasionally so the coconut milk doesn't separate.

  • 8

    Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is creamy, serve immediately over steaming jasmine rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Piaparan?

Chicken Piaparan is a traditional Maranao dish from the Philippines consisting of chicken simmered in coconut milk, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and chili. It is typically served as a main course for lunch or dinner alongside steamed rice.

Can I use store-bought toasted coconut?

For best results, toast your own fresh grated coconut in a dry pan until it releases a nutty aroma.

How spicy should this be?

Traditional Piaparan has a mild heat. If you prefer it spicier, you can bruise the chili pods before adding them.

What if I can't find Maranao coconut?

Standard full-fat coconut milk or fresh grated coconut works well, just ensure you toast it correctly.

Can I substitute the chicken?

Yes, Piaparan is often made with fish or even beef in various regions, following the same base recipe.

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