Chicken Macaroni Sopas: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as cozy and satisfying as a warm bowl of Chicken Macaroni Sopas. This classic Filipino-inspired soup combines tender chicken, hearty elbow macaroni, and a medley of vegetables in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or a simple weeknight meal, this dish is easy to prepare yet packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love.

Whether you’re new to making sopas or a seasoned home cook, this recipe will guide you step by step to create a delicious, restaurant-quality soup right in your own kitchen. From the first sauté of onions and garlic to the finishing touches of green onions or parsley, every step is designed to maximize flavor and texture.

Ingredients

This recipe serves 6 people.

• 1 lb chicken, diced (preferably chicken breast or thighs)
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Follow these steps to create a rich, comforting Chicken Macaroni Sopas.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrots and celery. If using fresh corn, cut it from the cob. Preparing your ingredients in advance ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil serves as the base for sautéing the aromatics and prevents the chicken from sticking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its fragrance. This step builds the foundational flavor of the soup.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides. Browning the chicken enhances the flavor and gives the soup a richer taste.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and corn. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly soften while blending their flavors with the chicken and aromatics.

Step 6: Add Broth and Milk

Pour in chicken broth and whole milk, then add the bay leaf. Stir to combine. The combination of broth and milk creates a creamy, comforting base that is characteristic of traditional sopas.

Step 7: Add the Macaroni

Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Season the Soup

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary to suit your preference.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley on top of each bowl. Serve hot for a comforting, flavorful experience that will warm both your stomach and your heart.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Macaroni Sopas

• Use quality chicken: Boneless chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breast, but either works well.
• Cook macaroni to al dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy after sitting in the soup.
• Adjust milk and broth ratios: For a creamier soup, add a little more milk; for a lighter version, add more broth.
• Vegetable variations: Feel free to add peas, green beans, or bell peppers to make the soup more colorful and nutrient-rich.
• Make ahead: The soup can be prepared a day in advance; just store it in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use leftover chicken for this soup?
Yes, cooked or leftover chicken works perfectly. Add it towards the end to prevent overcooking.

2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the whole milk with coconut milk or a plant-based milk of your choice.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Macaroni Sopas?
It’s best to freeze the soup without the macaroni, as pasta tends to get mushy when thawed. Cook the pasta fresh when reheating.

4. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! This soup is versatile. Broccoli, green beans, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition.

5. Can I make this spicy?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a subtle kick.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 10 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g

Chicken Macaroni Sopas is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience that blends creamy textures, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables into one satisfying bowl. This recipe is easy enough for weeknight dinners yet flavorful enough to impress guests. Whether served on a cold evening or packed for lunch, this soup is a timeless favorite for any occasion.

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