Easy way to cook Filipino Chicken Macaroni. If there’s one dish that brings back memories of rainy days and cozy afternoons, it’s Chicken Macaroni Sopas. This Filipino favorite is a warm, creamy, and hearty soup that’s perfect when the weather turns chilly — or honestly, anytime you’re craving comfort in a bowl!
This Blog will show you How to cook Filipino Chicken Macaroni.
🥣 What Is Sopas?
Sopas comes from the Spanish word sopa, which simply means “soup.” But like many things in the Philippines, we took that influence and made it uniquely our own. Filipino Chicken Macaroni Sopas is not just any ordinary soup—it’s a warm bowl of comfort that brings families together, especially on rainy days or chilly mornings.
In many Filipino households, sopas is a go-to meal for breakfast, merienda (afternoon snack), or even a light dinner. It’s common to see a big pot of it simmering on the stove when someone’s sick, during typhoons, or on cozy weekends at home. It’s especially popular with kids, thanks to its creamy broth, tender pasta, and delicious bits of chicken and vegetables. You’ll often find it in school lunchboxes or even sold at neighborhood karinderyas (eateries).
This dish combines shredded chicken, elbow macaroni, carrots, celery, and sometimes cabbage, all swimming in a savory, milky broth. It’s simple, humble, and yet incredibly heartwarming.
🧡 Why You’ll Love This Filipino Chicken Sopas Recipe
There are so many reasons why Chicken Macaroni Sopas is a beloved dish—and this recipe brings out all the best in it:
✅ Super Easy to Make
No fancy tools or techniques needed here. Just one big pot, a few ingredients, and some stirring—and you’re done! Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll be able to pull this off effortlessly.
✅ Pantry-Friendly Ingredients
Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen: elbow macaroni, chicken, milk, and a handful of basic veggies like onion, carrot, and celery.
✅ Feeds the Whole Family
One big batch goes a long way! It’s perfect for feeding your whole family, with plenty of leftovers to enjoy later.
✅ Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
You don’t need expensive ingredients to create a satisfying, flavorful meal. This is one of those dishes that’s friendly to both your wallet and your belly.
✅ Customizable to Your Taste
Not a fan of ham? Skip it. Want to add hotdogs, sausages, or cheese? Go for it. You can make this sopas your own by adjusting the ingredients to suit your cravings.
✅ Creamy, Hearty, and Absolutely Satisfying
The creamy broth (thanks to milk or evaporated milk) takes it to the next level. It feels indulgent and nourishing all at once—a true Filipino classic.
Ingredients
Method
- Make the Chicken Broth: Start by boiling a whole chicken (around 3–4 pounds) in a big pot of water. Let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes until it's nice and tender. This gives you a rich broth that's the soul of your sopas
- Shred the Chicken: Once it’s cool enough to handle, take the chicken out, remove the skin and bones, and shred the meat. Set it aside — you’ll add it back in soon.
- Sauté the Veggies: In another pot, melt some butter with a bit of oil. Toss in chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 3 minutes until everything smells amazing.
- Add Chicken and Ham: Now, add your shredded chicken and some chopped ham (about 1 cup). Let it cook together for a couple of minutes. The ham gives it a nice smoky flavor that really works with the creamy soup.
- Pour in the Broth: Add your homemade broth back into the pot, along with 2–3 extra cups of water if needed. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes so all the flavors come together.
- Add the Macaroni: Time for the carbs! Add 1 cup of elbow macaroni and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is soft. You can always add more water if it gets too thick.
- Make It Creamy: Finally, stir in 1 cup of milk (fresh or evaporated works great). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it gently boil once more — and you’re done!
🧠 Cooking Tips for Beginners
- Use bone-in chicken for more flavorful broth.
- Add cheese slices at the end for a cheesier version.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta — it will absorb more broth as it sits.
🍽 How to Serve Sopas
Serve it hot in a bowl, especially when it’s raining or cold outside. Want to level it up? Pair it with warm pandesal or toasted bread on the side. Perfect for merienda or even as a light dinner.
🌀 Variations You Can Try with Filipino Chicken Macaroni Sopas
- Use turkey, sausage, or chicken liver instead of regular chicken
- Add other veggies like bell peppers or green beans
- Use vegetable broth for a lighter taste
No matter how you tweak it, Sopas remains a classic comfort dish.
💡 Tips for Success
- Don’t skip sautéing the veggies — it brings out flavor.
- Add the milk at the end so it doesn’t curdle.
- Use elbow macaroni for the classic texture, but feel free to try shells or penne!
🎥 Watch the Recipe in Action
Want to see how Filipino Chicken Macaroni Sopas is made step-by-step?
Check out this amazing video from Panlasang Pinoy on YouTube!
All credit goes to Panlasang Pinoy for the video. We love their clear, simple instructions and delicious Filipino recipes!
Nutritional Info
- Calories: 350–400
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 30–35g
- Fat: 15–20g
- Fiber: 2–3g
Craving For More
Try these most loved recipes
- Chicken Afritada Recipe
- Crispy Garlic Fried Chicken Wings
- Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken
- Sticky Crispy Chicken (With Sweet & Spicy Sauce!)
💬 What Do You Think?
Have you tried making Filipino Chicken Macaroni Sopas at home?
We’d love to hear from you!
Did you grow up eating this during rainy days or school recess? Maybe you have your own version with a special twist—like adding cheese, hotdogs, or a secret spice?
Drop a comment below and tell us your favorite way to enjoy sopas.
👇 Share your memories, suggestions, or questions—we’re always reading!
