Chicken Tinola, also known as Tinolang Manok, is a simple yet flavorful Filipino dish. With few ingredients, it bursts with the taste of ginger, garlic, rich chicken broth, sweet sautéed onions, and savory green papaya or chayote squash.
As a child, I loved eating Chicken Tinola with rice, especially during the rainy season. It made me feel warm and active. The garlicky and gingery flavors are delightful. Despite its simple ingredients, Chicken Tinola is rich in vitamins and nutrients. In the Philippines, new mothers often receive this dish to regain energy. Its calcium and protein content can boost milk supply for breastfeeding.
Food can change our mood. Chicken Tinola made me realize how wonderful life is, as food can make us happy and feel at home, even when we’re far away.
This dish holds cultural significance in Filipino households. It’s often prepared for new mothers to help them regain strength. Its warming properties make it perfect for the rainy season, providing comfort and nourishment. Chicken Tinola embodies the essence of Filipino cuisine simple yet profound.
Savor each spoonful of Chicken Tinola and appreciate the flavors and the love that goes into making it. This dish is more than a meal; it’s a piece of Filipino heritage that brings families together. Try this Chicken Tinola recipe and share your experience!
Chicken Tinola: Hearty and Healthy Chicken Soup
6
servings15
minutes1
hour1
hour15
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients:
2 lb 2 Chicken legs
1 piece 1 Sayote (chayote), cut diagonally
7 cups 7 Water
1 cup 1 Malunggay leaves (moringa)
1 cup 1 Spinach
1/8 cup 1/8 Garlic, minced
1/4 cup 1/4 Onions, julienned
1/3 cup 1/3 Ginger, julienned
2 tbsp 2 Fish sauce
3 tbsp 3 Grapeseed oil
1 tbsp 1 Knorr chicken powder
1 tsp 1 Salt
1 tsp 1 Ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the flavor boosters: Heat a big pot and add the oil. Then, put in the ginger, onions, and garlic. Stir them until they smell really good and look soft. This helps make the soup super tasty!
- Add the chicken: Put the chicken legs in the pot and cook them for about 3 minutes. You’re looking for them to turn a little brown that means they’re starting to cook.
- Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour in the water, fish sauce, salt, pepper, and chicken powder. Stir gently to combine. Let the soup simmer over medium heat for at least 60 minutes the longer it simmers, the richer and tastier the chicken broth becomes. Extended cooking helps draw out deep flavors from the meat and aromatics, creating a heartwarming, delicious soup.
- Add the sayote: Drop in the sayote pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes until they’re soft. Sayote is kind of like potato but lighter and fresher!
- Add the leafy greens after cooking: Once the soup is done simmering, turn off the heat and gently stir in the malunggay and spinach. The residual warmth is enough to wilt them beautifully without overcooking. This keeps the leaves vibrant, tender, and packed with nutrients perfect for a healthy and colorful finish.
- Time to eat! Serve the soup in bowls and enjoy it with warm rice. It’s great on rainy days or when you want something cozy and yummy.
Equipment:
- Cooking Pot
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Recipe Video
Notes:
- Adjusting the Heat: Tailor the spice level to your liking by adjusting the ground black pepper. For added heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili can elevate the flavor.
- Flavor Options: Fish sauce adds depth and a classic savory profile, but if you prefer a milder taste, reduce the quantity or substitute with soy sauce for a softer finish.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve again, reheat gently until steaming hot to preserve flavor and texture.
- Best Served With: This soup is comforting on its own but pairs beautifully with warm steamed rice or a slice of crusty bread for a heartier meal. It’s also lovely with a side of pickled vegetables for balance.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Vitamin A: 60IU
- Vitamin C: 35mg
- Calcium: 80mg
- Iron: 2mg
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Give it a try and let me know how you like it! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you come up with. Happy cooking!
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