Creamy Pininyahang Manok is a Filipino dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce with creamy milk, carrots, and bell peppers. It's a flavorful, comforting meal that's perfect with steamed rice.
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pan, skin-side down, and sear until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same pan, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Pour in the pineapple juice from the can and stir, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits.
Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan. Add the pineapple chunks and mix them well with the chicken.
Add the sliced carrots and bell peppers to the pan. Stir to combine.
Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Pour in the evaporated milk (or coconut milk) and gently stir. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If you want some heat, add chopped green chili at this point.
Serve hot over steamed rice, allowing the rice to soak up the creamy, flavorful sauce.
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Notes
Pineapple: Fresh or canned pineapple can be used. Fresh pineapple provides a more natural sweetness, while canned pineapple adds a subtle tang from the syrup.
Creaminess: Use evaporated milk, coconut milk, or cream depending on your preference. Evaporated milk gives a rich but light texture, while coconut milk adds a more tropical flavor.
Protein: While chicken is traditional, you can substitute with pork or shrimp for a different take on the dish.
Serving suggestion: Best served hot with steamed white rice to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
Keyword Chicken with pineapple and vegetables, Creamy chicken with pineapple, Filipino pineapple chicken, Pininyahang Manok