Chicken Macaroni Soup Filipino Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s hearty and satisfying, Chicken Macaroni Soup (or Sopas in Filipino) is the perfect answer. It’s a popular dish in the Philippines, loved for its creamy texture, rich flavor, and easy-to-make ingredients. Whether served during cool weather or as a comforting meal after a long day, Sopas brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table.

This Filipino-style chicken soup is a fusion of tender chicken, hearty macaroni pasta, vegetables, and a milky broth that ties everything together. It’s incredibly versatile too! You can make it your own by tweaking the ingredients or adding your personal twist.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the recipe for Chicken Macaroni Soup, explore the ingredients, share expert tips, and even throw in some variations to keep the recipe fresh each time. Let’s get started!

Chicken Macaroni Soup Filipino Recipe

Chicken Macaroni Soup, or Sopas, is a delightful, creamy dish that blends the familiar comfort of chicken noodle soup with the unique flavors of Filipino cuisine. Here’s everything you need to make your own delicious bowl at home.

Ingredients Needed

For a perfectly balanced and flavorful Chicken Macaroni Soup, you’ll need:

• Chicken – 2 bone-in chicken thighs (or breasts), preferably with skin to add flavor
• Macaroni pasta – 1 cup, elbow macaroni is the classic choice
• Carrots – 1 medium-sized, diced
• Celery – 2 stalks, chopped (adds a subtle, aromatic flavor)
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced (for that aromatic kick)
• Corn kernels – 1/2 cup, fresh or frozen
• Evaporated milk – 1 can (12 oz), for creaminess and richness
• Chicken broth – 4 cups (or water and chicken bouillon cubes if you don’t have broth)
• Butter – 2 tbsp (optional, but adds a smooth texture)
• Bay leaves – 1-2 leaves, for an earthy, savory flavor
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• Olive oil or vegetable oil – 1 tbsp for sautéing
• Fresh parsley or spring onions – for garnish (optional but adds color and freshness)

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare The Chicken

   • In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs (or breasts) and brown them on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
   • Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside. Let it rest, then shred it into small, bite-sized pieces. Set this aside for later.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
   • Add the carrots, celery, and bay leaves. Stir them around for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.

3. Simmer The Broth

   • Pour in the chicken broth (or water with bouillon), making sure to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add The Pasta

   • Add the macaroni pasta and corn kernels into the soup. Let it simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and fully cooked. You can adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more broth or water as needed.

5. Mix In The Chicken And Milk

   • Once the pasta is done, return the shredded chicken to the pot. Pour in the evaporated milk, stirring to combine.
   • Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Finish And Serve

   • Stir in the butter for a silky finish (optional), and remove the bay leaves.
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or spring onions.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in Chicken Macaroni Soup contributes to the overall depth and flavor of the dish. Here’s a closer look at some of the key ingredients:

• Chicken – The chicken is the star of the soup, adding protein, richness, and a savory taste. Bone-in thighs are especially preferred as they release more flavor into the broth than chicken breasts. You can also use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Macaroni – The pasta provides the “comfort” factor. Elbow macaroni works best as it holds the broth and has a great texture when cooked in soup.
• Evaporated Milk – This is what gives Sopas its signature creaminess. Evaporated milk adds richness without being as heavy as cream, making it perfect for a cozy soup.
• Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Corn) – The vegetables not only add color and nutrition but also balance out the richness of the milk. The sweetness of the corn and the slight bitterness of celery are essential for depth of flavor.
• Bay Leaves – These small leaves pack a punch in terms of flavor. They’re often used in Filipino cooking to bring a savory, aromatic layer to the broth.

Expert Tips

To make your Chicken Macaroni Soup even better, consider these expert tips:

• Chicken Flavor – Use bone-in chicken pieces to maximize the flavor of the broth. If you’re short on time, you can opt for rotisserie chicken, which already has a deep, roasted flavor.
• Broth Quality – For a richer soup, use homemade chicken broth or stock. If you’re using store-bought, opt for low-sodium versions so you can control the seasoning.
• Pasta Don’t Overcook – Keep an eye on the pasta! Overcooked macaroni can become mushy and absorb too much of the broth. Stir occasionally and taste test for perfect al dente texture.
• Season Gradually – Always taste and season in stages. Add salt and pepper in small amounts to ensure the soup’s flavor builds evenly without being too salty.

Recipe Variations

If you want to mix things up and put your own spin on this classic dish, here are a few variations to try:

• Add more vegetables – Try adding green beans, peas, or potatoes to make the soup even more hearty and packed with nutrients.
• Swap the protein – While chicken is the go-to, you can use other proteins like pork (for a more savory soup) or even beef for a richer, more robust flavor.
• Make it spicy – Add a little heat by tossing in chopped fresh chili or a teaspoon of chili flakes. This will give your soup a zesty twist.
• Use coconut milk – For a richer, tropical version, swap the evaporated milk for coconut milk. This will give the soup a sweet, creamy taste that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
• Add herbs – Fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano can add an aromatic touch that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Final Words

Chicken Macaroni Soup is one of those dishes that brings people together. It’s comforting, filling, and versatile, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to a cozy bowl, Sopas is a crowd-pleaser every time.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – yet, every bite is packed with layers of flavor. You can easily adjust the ingredients and make this recipe your own. The next time you’re in the mood for something that feels like a hug in a bowl, look no further than Chicken Macaroni Soup.