Filipino Sopas
If there’s one dish that’s guaranteed to make Hammie smile, it’s Filipino Sopas—our take on chicken noodle soup! This hearty, flavorful chicken macaroni soup is a staple in our house and for good reason. It’s warm, filling, and the ultimate comfort food—perfect for any day, especially when you need something cozy and nourishing.
Sopas is also a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it a hit for parents and kids alike. Traditionally, it’s finished with evaporated milk for a creamy touch, but since Hammie has a dairy allergy, we skip it. And guess what? It’s still every bit as delicious!
Here’s my go-to recipe, packed with all the goodness Hammie loves:
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil)
1 pound chicken thighs (bone-in for more flavor, or boneless)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
6 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons fish sauce (adjust to taste)
2 cups elbow macaroni (we use goodles noodles curveball for healthy swap)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: 2 stalks celery, diced (though I typically leave this out)
Optional: 1 cup evaporated milk (for more traditional sopas, omit if dairy-free)
Instructions
Cook the chicken:
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This adds a deep, rich flavor to the soup.Sauté the aromatics:
Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant and softened, about 2–3 minutes.Add the veggies and broth:
Stir in the carrots (and celery, if using). Return the chicken to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.Shred the chicken:
Shred the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Discard the bones if you’re using bone-in thighs. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.Cook the macaroni:
Stir in the elbow macaroni and let it cook for about 8–10 minutes, or until tender and perfectly al dente.Season the soup:
Add the fish sauce and season with black pepper to taste. If you’re making the traditional version, stir in evaporated milk just before serving and let it heat through.Serve and enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. Hammie loves his just the way it is—warm, comforting, and full of flavor.
Why I Love Adding Goodle Noodles
Goodle noodles are such an easy swap that makes this already nourishing soup even healthier. They’re packed with extra protein, fiber, and nutrients, but the best part? Hammie doesn’t even notice the difference! It’s a win-win for everyone.
This soup is not just Hammie’s favorite—it’s a recipe I love making because it’s wholesome, comforting, and incredibly simple. Try it for yourself, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your home too!
xo,
mc
