There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Macaroni Chicken Sopas to bring comfort on a chilly day. This creamy, hearty Filipino soup is a staple in many households, offering a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and warmth that makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, craving a nostalgic dish from childhood, or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this sopas recipe delivers.
This dish is simple yet rich, with tender macaroni, shredded chicken, and a creamy broth that makes every spoonful both soothing and satisfying. Unlike many Western-style chicken noodle soups, Filipino sopas stands out because of its distinct creaminess, usually achieved with milk or evaporated milk. The addition of vegetables, a touch of fish sauce, and the savory depth of chicken broth make it an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why Macaroni Chicken Sopas is a Filipino Classic
Filipino cuisine is all about comfort, warmth, and family, and sopas is no exception. Many Filipinos grew up eating this dish, often prepared by their mothers or grandmothers, making it a nostalgic and sentimental meal. In Filipino culture, sopas is commonly served:
- On rainy days to warm the body and soul.
- As a remedy for colds and flu, thanks to its hearty broth and nutritious ingredients.
- During breakfast or merienda (afternoon snack) as a filling and satisfying option.
- For large family gatherings, where a big pot of sopas can feed a crowd.
Sopas is more than just a soup—it’s a dish that represents love, care, and home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients:
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 medium white or yellow, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Celery: 1 stalk, chopped
- Carrots: 1 cup (about 2 medium), diced
- Fish Sauce (Patis): 1 tablespoon
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 cup (8 ounces), dry
- Cooked Chicken: 1 cup (5.5 ounces), diced or shredded
- Chicken Stock: 2 (32-ounce) cartons
- Kosher Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
- Milk: 1/4 cup
Directions:
- Sauté the Base Ingredients:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, celery, and carrots.
- Sauté for about 3 minutes, until vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Stir in fish sauce to enhance the flavors.
- Build the Soup:
- Add dry macaroni and cooked chicken to the pot.
- Pour in chicken stock, stirring well.
- Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
- Season and Finish:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Turn off the heat and stir in milk for a creamy finish.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Ladle hot sopas into bowls and serve immediately.
- Pair with warm bread or enjoy on its own.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
What Makes Sopas Different from Other Chicken Soups?
Many countries have their own version of chicken noodle soup, but what sets Filipino sopas apart is its unique creamy broth. Here’s how it compares:
- Filipino Sopas: Uses milk or evaporated milk, adding a rich, creamy consistency that’s different from clear chicken soups.
- Western Chicken Noodle Soup: Usually has a clear broth with just chicken, noodles, and vegetables.
- Thai Tom Kha Gai: Also creamy but made with coconut milk and lemongrass, giving it a very different flavor profile.
- Italian Pasta e Fagioli: Uses beans for thickness rather than milk.
The combination of savory chicken broth, creamy milk, and tender pasta makes sopas an irresistible blend of flavors that feels both familiar and special.
Why This Sopas Recipe Works
This Macaroni Chicken Sopas recipe is designed to be easy, flavorful, and adaptable. Here’s why it stands out:
1. It’s a One-Pot Wonder
There’s nothing better than a recipe that requires minimal cleanup. Everything in this sopas—from sautéing aromatics to boiling the pasta and simmering the chicken—happens in a single pot.
2. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
The combination of savory broth, tender chicken, and sweet creamy milk gives sopas its signature comforting taste. The slight saltiness from fish sauce enhances the umami, making the soup even more flavorful.
3. It’s Highly Customizable
One of the best things about sopas is its versatility. You can tweak the ingredients based on your preferences. Some common variations include:
- Adding hotdogs or ham for extra protein.
- Using evaporated milk instead of fresh milk for a richer consistency.
- Adding boiled eggs on top for an extra layer of texture and protein.
- Mixing in cheese for a creamier, more indulgent version.
- Making it spicy with red pepper flakes or chili oil.
Tips for the Best Macaroni Chicken Sopas
To get the perfect bowl of sopas, keep these tips in mind:
1. Use High-Quality Chicken Stock
A good broth makes all the difference. If possible, use homemade chicken stock or a high-quality store-bought version. Low-sodium broth is best so you can control the salt levels.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Macaroni tends to absorb liquid and turn mushy if left in the broth too long. Cook it just until al dente and serve immediately for the best texture.
3. Sauté Your Aromatics Well
The base of onions, garlic, celery, and carrots creates a deep flavor. Sautéing these ingredients properly before adding the broth enhances the overall taste of the soup.
4. Add Milk at the End
Milk can curdle if boiled too long. To keep the soup smooth and creamy, stir in the milk after turning off the heat.
5. Adjust the Thickness
If you prefer a thicker sopas, use less broth or add a cornstarch slurry. If you like it thinner, simply add more broth.
What to Serve with Macaroni Chicken Sopas
Sopas is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with:
- Pandesal or Toasted Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Fried Lumpia (Spring Rolls): A crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the soup.
- Steamed Rice: Because rice is always a good idea in Filipino meals.
- A Hot Cup of Coffee or Tea: Complements the richness of the soup for a cozy meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use small shells, ditalini, or even rotini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I Make Sopas Without Chicken?
Absolutely. For a vegetarian version, use mushrooms or tofu as a protein substitute and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
3. How Long Does Sopas Last in the Fridge?
Sopas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or milk if it has thickened.
4. Can I Freeze Sopas?
Yes, but keep in mind that pasta tends to absorb liquid and may become mushy when reheated. To avoid this, freeze the broth and chicken separately, then add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
5. What Can I Substitute for Fish Sauce?
If you don’t have fish sauce, you can use soy sauce, oyster sauce, or simply extra salt for seasoning.
6. Can I Make Sopas in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the aromatics, then pressure cook the soup for 5 minutes, doing a quick release before stirring in the milk.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Filipino Comfort Food
Macaroni Chicken Sopas is more than just a soup—it’s a bowl of comfort, warmth, and nostalgia. Whether you’re enjoying it on a rainy day, cooking for loved ones, or introducing Filipino flavors to someone new, this dish never fails to satisfy.
With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s a must-have recipe for any home cook. Try making a batch today, and experience why this Filipino classic remains a favorite across generations.
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Macaroni Chicken Sopas Recipe | Easy Comfort Food
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Warm your soul with this creamy and comforting Macaroni Chicken Sopas! This Filipino classic combines tender macaroni, savory chicken, and a creamy broth to create the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s a rainy day or a family gathering, this recipe will bring joy to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium white or yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
- 1 tablespoon patis (fish sauce)
- 1 cup (8 ounces) dry pasta, like elbow macaroni
- 1 cup (5.5 ounces) diced or shredded cooked chicken
- 2 (32-ounce) cartons chicken stock
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Sauté the Base Ingredients:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots.
- Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the fish sauce to enhance the flavors.
- Build the Soup:
- Add the dry pasta and cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the chicken stock and stir well.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Season and Add Milk:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the milk for a creamy finish.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the hot sopas into individual bowls and serve immediately.
- Pair with warm bread or enjoy as is!
Notes
- Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. - Freezing Instructions:
Freeze cooled soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. - Vegetable Additions:
Feel free to add green beans, peas, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. - Pasta Caution:
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider cooking the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy upon reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Filipino
