Chicken Tinola Recipe (Filipino Chicken Soup)

Introduction

Chicken Tinola is one of the Philippines’ most comforting and traditional dishes—simple, nourishing, and perfect for rainy days or cozy evenings. Made with tender chicken, fragrant ginger and lemongrass, green papaya, and fresh leafy greens, this light soup is known for its clean flavors and soothing warmth. Every bowl tastes like home, offering a mix of aroma, comfort, and nutrition that generations of Filipino families have loved.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 tbsp cooking oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 stalks lemongrass, lightly pounded and tied into a knot

• 1 piece ginger, peeled and thinly sliced

• 4–5 cups water (or chicken broth for richer flavor)

• 1 small green papaya or chayote, peeled and sliced

• 2 cups malunggay (moringa) leaves or substitute with spinach

• 1 tbsp fish sauce (or salt to taste)

• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics.
   Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and onion. Cook until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.

2. Add the chicken.
   Place the chicken pieces into the pot. Stir and cook for 3–5 minutes, allowing the meat to lightly brown and absorb the flavors.

3. Season.
   Pour in the fish sauce and mix well. Let it simmer for another minute.

4. Add water and lemongrass.
   Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. Add the lemongrass stalks. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.

5. Add the papaya or chayote.
   Add the sliced green papaya/chayote. Cook for 5–8 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.

6. Add the greens.
   Stir in the malunggay leaves. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes until wilted.

7. Taste and adjust.
   Add pepper and adjust salt or fish sauce as needed.

8. Serve warm.
   Enjoy with steamed rice for the full comfort-food experience.

Conclusion

Chicken Tinola is more than just a soup—it’s a warm, healing bowl filled with tradition and flavor. Whether you’re making it for your family, feeling under the weather, or craving something cozy, this comforting Filipino classic always delivers. Serve it hot, savor every spoonful, and let it bring warmth straight to your table.

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