When the sun dips below the horizon and a chill fills the air, nothing brings warmth to my heart quite like a bowl of Creamy Pininyahang Manok. This Filipino classic is a culinary embrace, inviting you to savor tender pieces of chicken enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s beautifully brightened by sweet pineapple. The first time I experienced this dish, the aroma of garlic and vegetables sizzling on the stovetop instantly transported me to my childhood, surrounded by family during lively kitchen gatherings.
In just under 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and homemade. Perfect for casual weeknight dinners or festive family reunions, this delightful stew embodies the spirit of Filipino home cooking, celebrating flavors that meld together in perfect harmony. Prepare to make cozy memories as you relish each spoonful of this warm, satisfying dish that transforms ordinary chicken into something truly extraordinary.
Why is Creamy Pininyahang Manok a must-try?
Hearty Comfort: The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken, making every bite irresistibly comforting.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Tropical Twist: Pineapple adds a delightful sweetness, transforming a classic dish into a refreshing experience.
Family-Friendly: A dish everyone loves, ideal for gatherings, ensuring happy faces at the dinner table.
Homemade Goodness: Bring the warmth of Filipino cooking directly into your home with this heartwarming stew!
Creamy Pininyahang Manok Ingredients
For the Chicken Stew
• Chicken – 2 lbs. Cut into serving pieces; it’s the main protein, bringing substance to the dish.
• Pineapple chunks – 20 ounces; adds a sweet and tangy flavor that is essential for Creamy Pininyahang Manok.
• Potatoes – 2 medium, diced; provides bulk and heartiness, making the dish more filling.
• Carrots – 2 medium, cut into wedges; contributes sweetness and vibrant color to the stew.
• Red bell pepper – 1, sliced; adds a crunchy texture and a sweet flavor profile.
• Green bell pepper – 1, sliced; provides a slight bitter contrast and a fresh taste.
For the Creamy Sauce
• Carnation Everyday Creamer – 200 ml; creates the rich, velvety texture that’s a hallmark of this recipe; alternatives include all-purpose cream or evaporated milk.
• Tomatoes – 2 pieces, chopped; adds acidity and depth to the overall flavor of the sauce.
• Onion – 1 piece, thinly sliced; builds a flavorful base when sautéed with the other ingredients.
• Garlic – 2 tablespoons, minced; enhances aroma and enriches the taste, making each bite delicious.
Seasoning and Cooking Essentials
• Fish sauce – To taste; adds a depth of umami flavor that elevates the dish.
• Ground black pepper – To taste; provides a mild spice and rounds out the flavors.
• Cooking oil – 1 cup; necessary for frying and sautéing the vegetables until beautifully cooked.
How to Make Creamy Pininyahang Manok
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Heat oil: In a large pan, pour in the cooking oil and allow it to heat over medium heat. This will set the stage for your delicious golden-brown potatoes and carrots!
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Fry vegetables: Add the diced potatoes and carrot wedges, frying them until they’re beautifully browned and tender. Once done, set them aside on a plate to stay warm.
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Sauté aromatics: Lower the oil to about 3 tablespoons in the same pan. Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, and chopped tomatoes, sautéing until everything softens and releases its fragrant aroma.
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Brown the chicken: Toss in the chicken pieces, cooking them until lightly browned on all sides, which helps lock in their natural juices for maximum flavor.
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Add pineapple goodness: Pour in the pineapple juice and the pineapple chunks, covering the pan to let it simmer for 30 minutes. Feel free to add a splash of water if you want a saucier stew.
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Incorporate veggies: After 30 minutes, stir in the fried potatoes, carrot wedges, and sliced bell peppers. Let it simmer for an additional 3 minutes until the bell peppers are just tender.
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Season and enrich: Season the stew with fish sauce and ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the Carnation Everyday Creamer and simmer for 2 more minutes, creating that luscious, creamy texture.
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Serve: Gently transfer your Creamy Pininyahang Manok to a serving plate and enjoy it hot with a bowl of freshly steamed rice for the ultimate comfort dining experience!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamy Pininyahang Manok
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh pineapple for a vibrant flavor, but be mindful to adjust the sweetness to keep the balance in your Creamy Pininyahang Manok.
- Proper Browning: Ensure the chicken pieces are browned properly to enhance the depth of flavor; avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking.
- Creamer Substitutes: If using all-purpose cream or evaporated milk instead of Carnation Everyday Creamer, be prepared for slight changes in texture and richness.
- Adjusting Seasoning: Taste before serving; adding a bit more fish sauce or black pepper can elevate the umami depth of the dish beautifully.
- Veggie Options: Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables like snap peas or corn to enrich the Creamy Pininyahang Manok, enhancing both flavor and texture.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pininyahang Manok
Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Pininyahang Manok in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure the container is well-sealed.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through; add a splash of water or cream if it thickens too much.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Pininyahang Manok will quickly become your favorite time-saving meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in fish sauce and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, prepare your chopped vegetables (potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers) and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, ensure the vegetables are dry before storing to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the aromatics, add the marinated chicken and pineapple, and finish the stew by adding your prepped veggies. This way, you can enjoy a comforting dish with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Creamy Pininyahang Manok Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore these delightful twists on this comforting favorite!
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Pork Swap: Use pork instead of chicken for a richer, heartier flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with tofu for a plant-based version. Firm tofu absorbs the sauce beautifully, making it a satisfying alternative.
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Spice it Up: Add sliced chili peppers for a spicy kick! This will infuse the dish with a pleasant heat that enhances its tropical flavors.
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Fresh Veggies: Incorporate snap peas or corn for extra texture and sweetness that complements the creamy base wonderfully.
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Tropical Surprise: Mix in diced mango along with the pineapple for a double fruit punch that brightens the dish’s flavor profile.
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Coconut Cream: Swap out the cream with coconut cream for a richer, tropical taste. This pairs perfectly with the pineapple and adds depth to the sauce.
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Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving adds a refreshing brightness and enhances the overall flavor.
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Noodle Twist: Serve the creamy stew over cooked noodles or rice noodles for a fun twist, transforming it into a hearty noodle bowl!
What to Serve with Creamy Pininyahang Manok?
When you’re ready to delight your senses with this creamy, tropical chicken stew, consider these delicious pairings to build a truly memorable meal.
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Steamed White Rice: The perfect companion, rice soaks up the rich sauce, ensuring not a drop goes to waste.
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Garlic Fried Rice: For an extra layer of flavor, garlic fried rice adds a fragrant twist to your plate, enhancing the dish’s essence.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is ideal for mopping up the luscious sauce, making every bite a satisfying experience.
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Sautéed Green Beans: These crunchy veggies bring a fresh contrast in both texture and taste, balancing the creaminess of the dish perfectly.
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Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing provides a crisp contrast, invigorating your palate after each bite.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: End on a sweet note with a fruity medley, the fresh flavors echoing the pineapple in your stew while cleansing the palate.
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Iced Lemonade: Keep it cool with a zesty glass of iced lemonade, perfectly countering the richness while brightening your meal experience.
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Mango Float Dessert: This creamy dessert, layered with ripe mangoes and graham crackers, is a delightful way to round off your Filipino feast.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Bake or fry some sweet potato fries for a hint of sweetness, complementing the savory depth of the Pininyahang Manok.
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Hot Chocolate: For a cozy finish, a cup of rich hot chocolate makes for a comforting beverage that pairs beautifully with the tropical flavors of the dish.
Creamy Pininyahang Manok Recipe FAQs
What type of pineapple should I use for Creamy Pininyahang Manok?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple is the best option to bring a vibrant flavor to Creamy Pininyahang Manok. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple works well; just reduce the sweetness during cooking, as it’s often sweeter than fresh.
How should I store leftover Creamy Pininyahang Manok?
Very simply! To store leftover Creamy Pininyahang Manok, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re making this for meal prep, it’s a great dish that holds up well!
Can I freeze Creamy Pininyahang Manok?
Certainly! To freeze Creamy Pininyahang Manok, allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag (don’t forget to squeeze out excess air!) and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
What should I do if my Creamy Pininyahang Manok is too thick?
No worries! If your Creamy Pininyahang Manok ends up thicker than desired, simply stir in a splash of water or additional cream while reheating until you reach your preferred consistency. This will revive that luscious sauce!
Are there any dietary considerations for Creamy Pininyahang Manok?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about allergies, check for fish sauce, as it contains seafood. To make this dish more pet-friendly, simply exclude any seasoning that contains salt. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using low-fat cream or a non-dairy alternative while adjusting seasonings accordingly.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Creamy Pininyahang Manok?
Very easily! For a more robust flavor profile, consider adding sliced chili peppers during the sautéing process for a spicy kick. Additionally, you can experiment with spices like paprika or herbs such as thyme to introduce more depth and an aromatic flair to your dish.
Creamy Pininyahang Manok: Your New Favorite Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pan, pour in the cooking oil and allow it to heat over medium heat.
- Add the diced potatoes and carrot wedges, frying them until they’re beautifully browned and tender. Set aside.
- Lower the oil to about 3 tablespoons in the same pan. Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, and chopped tomatoes, sautéing until soft.
- Toss in the chicken pieces, cooking until lightly browned on all sides.
- Pour in the pineapple juice and chunks, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the fried potatoes, carrot wedges, and sliced bell peppers, simmer for an additional 3 minutes.
- Season with fish sauce and ground black pepper. Stir in Carnation Everyday Creamer and simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy hot with steamed rice.