Craving a heartwarming and flavorful meal that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this Filipino Chicken Macaroni Soup recipe! This comforting classic is a staple in Filipino homes, a perfect blend of savory chicken broth, tender chicken pieces, and perfectly cooked macaroni, all seasoned with a delightful mix of spices. It's the ultimate quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend lunch. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with this easy recipe!
Ingredients: You'll need these simple pantry staples
This recipe is designed to be easily adaptable to what you have on hand, so feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings you need.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper (optional, for a brighter flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions: Let's get cooking!
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Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup.
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Simmer the soup: Pour in the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
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Add macaroni and vegetables: Stir in the elbow macaroni, shredded carrots, and frozen peas. Continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked al dente and the vegetables are tender.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and optional white pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Bowl
- For a richer broth: Use homemade chicken broth for the most flavorful soup. You can easily make your own by simmering chicken bones and vegetables in water.
- Don't overcook the macaroni: Overcooked macaroni can become mushy. Cook it just until it's tender but still holds its shape.
- Adjust vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, corn, or green beans.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Delicious Variations to Explore
- Filipino Chicken Macaroni Soup with Sausage: Add some sliced chorizo or Italian sausage to the soup for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Chicken Macaroni Soup: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
This Filipino Chicken Macaroni Soup is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a simple recipe that's easy to follow, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. Enjoy this taste of the Philippines in the comfort of your own home!