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    Home / Roundups

    10 Filipino Favorites That Fit Weeknight Cooking

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Jul 12, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

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    I love making Filipino food at home, but I don't always have the time for long prep or complicated steps. These recipes keep things simple without losing the flavors I grew up with. If you're looking for weeknight meals that are doable and still feel like home, this list is a good place to start.

    A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.Pin
    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Filipino Chicken Adobo

    Two pieces of braised meat in a dark, rich sauce, seasoned with whole peppercorns and a bay leaf, in a pan.Pin
    Filipino Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This classic dish comes together with pantry staples and doesn't need much hands-on time. The chicken turns out flavorful and tender, and the sauce pairs well with plain rice. It's easy to prep and simmers on its own, which is helpful on a busy evening. Leftovers hold up well too, making it worth the effort. It's a great example of how Filipino meals can be practical for weeknight cooking.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Chicken Adobo

    Pancit Bihon Guisado

    A fork lifting a portion of chicken and noodles from a bowl of stir-fry.Pin
    Pancit Bihon Guisado. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These stir-fried noodles are loaded with vegetables and protein, and they cook fast in one pan. You can stretch it to feed a group or keep leftovers for lunch the next day. It's a balanced meal that doesn't take much time or planning. The ingredients are flexible, so it works with whatever you have on hand. It's one of those Filipino dishes that fits easily into a regular dinner routine.
    Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon Guisado

    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    A plate of freshly cooked Filipino banana turon lumpia spring rolls.Pin
    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These crispy rolls use just a few ingredients and cook quickly, especially in the air fryer. They work well as an after-dinner treat or a midday snack. You can prep a batch in advance and cook it as needed. They're easy enough to pull off without much cleanup. This is a sweet option that makes Filipino flavors doable on a weeknight.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    Filipino Spaghetti

    A bowl of spaghetti topped with a rich meat sauce placed on a red and white checkered tablecloth.Pin
    Filipino Spaghetti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This pasta dish is sweet, rich, and packed with familiar ingredients that come together quickly. It's a fun option that's popular with kids and grown-ups alike. You don't need a long prep list or much time to get it on the table. It's great for making ahead or reheating later in the week. Meals like this show how Filipino cooking can be part of any busy night.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Spaghetti

    Air Fryer Lumpia

    Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.Pin
    Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These crisp spring rolls are easy to prep and cook fast without needing a pot of oil. They freeze well too, which makes future meals even easier. The filling is flexible and works well with leftovers. They're great as an appetizer or a light main with rice. This is the kind of Filipino snack that's simple enough to make during the week.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

    A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.Pin
    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These pork belly bites come out crisp without deep frying, making cleanup much easier. The air fryer keeps the outside crunchy and the inside tender. They work well for a quick dinner or a heavier snack with rice. You can season them simply and still get big flavor. It's one of those Filipino favorites that doesn't need a weekend to make.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

    Filipino Leche Flan

    Leche flan caramel creme brulee on a plate with a spoon.Pin
    Filipino Leche Flan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This custard dessert uses just a few ingredients and sets in the fridge while you take care of other things. It's smooth, sweet, and easy to portion out for later. You can make it a day ahead, which helps during a busy week. It holds up well in the fridge and makes a nice finish to a simple meal. It shows that Filipino desserts don't have to be saved for special occasions.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Leche Flan

    Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

    Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side.Pin
    Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    This pressure cooker version saves time without losing flavor. The chicken cooks quickly and still turns out tender and well-seasoned. It's a good fit for weeknights when you want something warm without watching the stove. You can make a big batch and use the leftovers later in the week. It's an easy way to enjoy Filipino comfort food even on your busiest days.
    Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

    Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad

    A glass bowl filled with a creamy fruit salad, featuring colorful fruits and marshmallows, placed on a blue cloth.Pin
    Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This cold dessert salad comes together quickly with pantry staples and fruit. It's best served chilled, which means you can make it ahead and keep it in the fridge. It's a good option when you want something sweet but don't have time for baking. It's often seen during holidays, but it's simple enough for any weeknight. Dishes like this show how Filipino favorites can be both convenient and familiar.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Macaroni Fruit Salad

    Chicken Feet Adobo

    Chicken adobo feet one white plate with cilantro garnish.Pin
    Chicken Feet Adobo. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

    This dish uses a part of the chicken that's often overlooked and turns it into something rich and flavorful. It doesn't take long to cook and goes well with rice. The ingredients are simple and don't need anything fancy. It's a smart way to try something traditional without spending all day on it. Meals like this keep Filipino flavors part of regular home cooking.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Feet Adobo

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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