Easy Filipino Macaroni Sopas – A Lightened-Up Comfort in a Bowl

Filipino Macaroni Sopas is a creamy, hearty soup made with elbow macaroni, vegetables, tender chicken, and a splash of milk. It’s the kind of cozy, nourishing dish that warms you from the inside out. This lighter version maintains all the rich flavor and comforting texture of the original, while using smart ingredients to keep it balanced and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort in Every Spoonful: Creamy broth, soft pasta, and savory chicken make this the ultimate cozy meal.
Lighter and Balanced: Made with lean protein, skim milk, and plenty of vegetables.
One-Pot Wonder: Simple cleanup and easy cooking for busy days.
Family-Friendly: Kid-approved and perfect for leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 small carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1/2 cup cabbage, shredded
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup skim milk
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional: 1 tbsp grated cheese or a splash of evaporated milk for added richness

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add diced onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.

Cook the Chicken

• Add diced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until lightly browned and cooked through.

Simmer the Soup

• Pour in chicken broth, then add carrots and celery.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Stir in the macaroni and cook for 8–10 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Add Final Touches

• Stir in shredded cabbage and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.
• Pour in milk, season with salt and pepper, and stir to combine.
• If desired, add cheese or evaporated milk for extra creaminess.

Serve Warm

• Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with a piece of whole grain toast or on its own.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: 230 | Carbs: 24g | Fat: 6g | Protein: 19g | Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: For quicker prep, use leftover or rotisserie chicken.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in soup.
• Milk at the End: Adding milk last prevents curdling and keeps the broth creamy.
• Customize Your Veggies: Add peas, corn, or green beans for variety.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced Comfort Food: Rich and filling without feeling heavy.
• Cultural Favorite, Made Lighter: Keeps the authentic Filipino flavor with smart ingredient swaps.
• Easy to Make Ahead: Great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Full of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

This lightened-up Filipino Macaroni Sopas brings together everything you love in a bowl—warmth, flavor, and comfort—without sacrificing nutrition. Whether it’s a rainy-day remedy or a go-to weeknight dinner, this version of the beloved Filipino classic is one you’ll want to revisit again and again.