Chicken Sopas

Introduction

Chicken Sopas is a hearty and comforting Filipino soup, perfect for any occasion, especially during cooler weather. It features tender chicken, vegetables, and pasta in a creamy, flavorful broth. This dish is a staple in Filipino households, known for its nourishing qualities and comforting flavors.

I first made Chicken Sopas when I was craving something warm and filling, and it quickly became a family favorite. The aroma of simmering chicken and vegetables filled the kitchen, and the first spoonful immediately brought comfort. What I love most about Chicken Sopas is how versatile it is. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it easy to prepare and perfect for any meal.

What’s great about this dish is that it’s simple to make yet full of rich flavors. With the combination of tender chicken, soft pasta, and a creamy broth, it’s the kind of meal that warms you up and leaves you feeling satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy dinner, Chicken Sopas is sure to hit the spot!

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Cold weather meals
• Comfort food lovers
• Meal prep
• Special occasions

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sopas

Here’s why Chicken Sopas will become your new favorite:

• Rich and Creamy Broth: The creamy, savory broth made with chicken, vegetables, and milk creates a comforting and indulgent base.
• Tender Chicken: The chicken is slow-cooked to perfection, making it juicy and flavorful.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the vegetables, this soup is both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: You can adjust the vegetables and seasonings to your liking, making this dish flexible and versatile.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for quick meals throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken Sopas:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thigh, boneless and skinless
• 6 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce or 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Chicken provides lean protein and adds depth of flavor to the broth. You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, whichever you prefer.
• Elbow Macaroni: The small pasta soaks up the creamy broth, adding texture and making the soup more filling.
• Evaporated Milk: Evaporated milk gives the soup its signature creamy texture without being overly rich.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and corn add sweetness, crunch, and nutrients to balance the savory flavors of the soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Chicken Sopas:

Prepare the Soup Base:

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, combine the chicken breasts or thighs with the chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside. Keep the broth in the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add butter over medium heat. Once melted, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and corn to the pot. Stir to combine, then let the vegetables cook for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
4. Add the Pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni (or your choice of small pasta) and bay leaf. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through.

Make the Soup:

5. Add the Chicken and Broth: Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing it with the vegetables and pasta. Add the evaporated milk and bring the soup back to a simmer. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
6. Season the Soup: Add salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in fish sauce or soy sauce for extra umami flavor. Remove the bay leaf.

Serve:

7. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot.

How to Serve Chicken Sopas

Chicken Sopas is a hearty meal that can be served in various ways:

• As a Main Course: Serve a big bowl of this soup as a filling main course, especially during colder months.
• With Bread: Pair the soup with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
• For Lunch: This soup makes a great lunch option, especially if you prepare it ahead of time.
• On Special Occasions: Serve this comforting dish during holidays or family gatherings as a satisfying, crowd-pleasing soup.

Additional Tips for Chicken Sopas

Here are some tips to ensure your Chicken Sopas are perfect every time:

• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth for a richer, deeper flavor in the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be tender but not mushy.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or potatoes to suit your taste.
• Make it Creamier: For an even creamier soup, add a bit of heavy cream along with or instead of the evaporated milk.
• For Extra Flavor: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end adds a nice touch of brightness to the soup.

Recipe Variations for Chicken Sopas

Here are 10 variations you can try for Chicken Sopas:

• Spicy Chicken Sopas: Add chopped chili peppers or a teaspoon of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Chicken and Potato Sopas: Add cubed potatoes along with the other vegetables for a heartier soup.
• Chicken Sopas with Bacon: Crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it over the soup before serving for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Chicken and Mushroom Sopas: Add sliced mushrooms along with the other vegetables for an earthy twist.
• Coconut Chicken Sopas: Replace the evaporated milk with coconut milk for a rich, tropical flavor.
• Herb-Infused Chicken Sopas: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for a more aromatic, herby soup.
• Vegan Chicken Sopas: Use plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh instead of chicken, and substitute vegetable broth for a vegan version.
• Chicken Sopas with Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
• Creamy Tomato Chicken Sopas: Add a can of crushed tomatoes to the broth for a tangy, creamy twist.
• Chicken and Corn Sopas: Increase the corn ratio for a sweet, savory, and hearty version.

Freezing and Storage for Chicken Sopas

• Freezing: Chicken Sopas freezes well for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra broth or milk if the soup has thickened.

Special Equipment for Chicken Sopas

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Chicken Sopas easier:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large pot is essential for cooking the chicken and making the soup base.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife helps with chopping vegetables and shredding the chicken easily.
• Wooden Spoon or Ladle: Use a wooden spoon to stir the soup and a ladle to serve it.
• Strainer (optional): If using homemade chicken broth, a strainer helps remove any leftover bones or impurities from the broth.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure the correct amounts of ingredients with accurate measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken Sopas

1. Can I use other types of chicken?
   Yes, you can use chicken thighs or even a whole chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make this soup without pasta?
   Yes, you can omit the pasta for a low-carb version and add more vegetables instead.
4. What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
   You can use regular milk, heavy cream, or coconut milk for a different texture and flavor.
5. Can I freeze Chicken Sopas?
   Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.

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Conclusion

Chicken Sopas is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender chicken, creamy broth, and hearty vegetables in one satisfying bowl. This nourishing soup is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it to loved ones, Chicken Sopas is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

This recipe is as comforting to make as it is to enjoy, perfect for everything from casual family meals to cozy gatherings. Whether you’re serving it for a quiet dinner or sharing it with friends, Chicken Sopas will warm hearts and bellies alike.

I’d love to see how your Chicken Sopas turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!