The Best Filipino Chicken Soup You’ll Ever Taste

Warm your soul with this Filipino Chicken Soup (inspired by the classic Tinola), a nourishing, aromatic broth brimming with tender chicken, ginger, leafy greens, and zesty flavors. Perfect for chilly days, recovery meals, or a taste of Filipino comfort, this dish is proof that hearty and healthy can coexist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Weight Watchers-Friendly: 2 SmartPoints® per serving (Blue Plan).
• Authentic Flavor, Lightened Up: Traditional Filipino warmth without the guilt.
• 30-Minute Meal: Quick enough for weeknights but special enough for gatherings.
• Immunity Boost: Ginger, garlic, and greens pack a nutrient punch.

Ingredients 

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups bok choy or spinach, chopped
• 1 cup green papaya or chayote squash, sliced (sub zucchini for lower points)
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, julienned
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tbsp fish sauce (patis), or low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp coconut vinegar (or rice vinegar)
• 1 tsp olive oil (or cooking spray)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Fresh chili peppers, lime wedges, or cilantro

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics:
Heat olive oil (or cooking spray) in a pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken:
Add chicken cubes and sear lightly for 3–4 minutes.

Simmer the Broth:
Pour in chicken broth, fish sauce, and vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.Add Veggies:
Stir in green papaya (or zucchini) and cook for 5 minutes. Add bok choy/spinach and simmer 2–3 more minutes.

Season & Serve:
Adjust with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chili, lime, or cilantro.

Nutrition & SmartPoints®

Per serving (1.5 cups):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 2g
• SmartPoints®: 2 (Blue Plan with cooking spray)

Points may vary slightly with substitutions.

Serving Suggestions

• With Cauliflower Rice: A zero-point base to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Pair with Lumpia: Serve with WW-friendly veggie spring rolls (+2 SmartPoints®).
• Fresh Crusty Bread: A small slice of sourdough for dipping (2 SmartPoints®).

Pro Tips

• Authentic Twist: Add moringa leaves (malunggay) or chili leaves if available.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu and use veggie broth (adjust points).
• Meal Prep: Double the batch and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Extra Heat: Stir in sliced bird’s eye chili (siling labuyo) for a spicy kick.
• Low-Sodium Hack: Use homemade broth and reduce fish sauce.

Why This Soup Supports Your Goals

• Lean Protein: Chicken breast keeps you full and supports muscle health.
• Ginger Power: Aids digestion and adds anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Low-Calorie Veggies: Bok choy and papaya add volume and nutrients for minimal points.

This Filipino Chicken Soup is a hug in a bowl—warming, nourishing, and brimming with the vibrant flavors of the Philippines. Whether you’re craving comfort, fighting a cold, or exploring global cuisines, this dish brings joy to your table without compromising your wellness journey. Kain na! (Let’s eat!)