Sweet, Savory, and Tropical: Discover the Delight of Pineapple Chicken Stew

Photo byMK Madhavi

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory, and Tropical Pineapple Chicken Stew brings that magic to life. It’s the perfect dish to transport your taste buds to a sun-soaked island, no matter where you are. With tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and the sweet tang of pineapple, this stew bursts with flavor in every bite. Whether you're cooking for your family or preparing meals for the week, this tropical stew will quickly become a household favorite.

Imagine a juicy piece of chicken simmered to perfection, coated in a rich pineapple glaze that’s just sweet enough to balance the savory notes of soy sauce and garlic. The trio of colorful bell peppers not only makes this dish visually appealing but also adds a refreshing crunch that complements the tender chicken. This recipe blends simplicity with a bold taste, offering a meal that’s both exciting and easy to prepare.

The real beauty of this dish lies in the slow-cooking method. By using a crockpot, you allow the chicken and vegetables to soak up the tropical flavors, creating a tender, juicy meal that’s loaded with goodness. It’s ideal for busy days when you want to come home to a meal that's ready to enjoy with minimal effort. You can also make some substitutions to suit your preferences. Swap out the chicken breasts for thighs, or even opt for tofu to make it vegetarian-friendly.

Recipe: Tropical Pineapple Chicken Stew
Ingredients:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a soy-free option)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them at the bottom of your crockpot.
2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), and minced garlic until the sugar dissolves.
3. Layer the Vegetables: Add the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers over the chicken. Then, top with the drained pineapple chunks.
4. Cook: Pour the pineapple sauce over the chicken and veggies. Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
5. Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl to form a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot to thicken the sauce.
6. Serve: Once the sauce has thickened, serve the stew over rice or with steamed veggies. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.

This Tropical Pineapple Chicken Stew brings together the sweetness of pineapple with the heartiness of chicken in a way that's both refreshing and comforting. It’s an excellent meal for any season, whether you’re longing for the warmth of summer or looking for a cozy dish to brighten up a winter day. The sauce is rich and flavorful, soaking into every bite of chicken and veggies, making it an irresistible addition to your recipe collection.

Pair it with a bowl of fluffy white rice, or even some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce. This is a dish that shines at family dinners, meal preps, or casual get-togethers. The vibrant colors and tropical flavors will make you feel like you’re enjoying a meal straight from the islands, no passport required!

1. Crockpot Chicken Stew Recipes
2. Pineapple-Based Chicken Dishes
3. Slow Cooker Chicken Recipes
4. Soy-Free Cooking Options
5. Tropical Chicken Dishes