🇵🇭 Philippines · Food
Chicken Tinola
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
A comforting, ginger-rich chicken soup that is a staple of Filipino home cooking. It is perfect for chilly days and known for its medicinal, warming properties.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the onion, garlic, and sliced ginger until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- 2
Add 1kg chicken pieces to the pot and sear for 5 minutes until the skin turns lightly golden.
- 3
Pour in 400ml coconut milk and enough water to submerge the chicken, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- 4
Season with 1 tsp salt and cover, allowing it to cook for 25 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- 5
Add the sliced chilies into the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking to infuse a gentle heat.
- 6
Taste the broth and adjust seasoning if necessary, then remove from heat once the chicken is cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use coconut cream instead of milk?+
Yes, but it will result in a much richer, thicker soup.
Why is ginger essential?+
It provides the signature spicy, warming base that defines Tinola.
How do I know when it's done?+
The chicken should be tender enough to easily pull away from the bone.
Can I add vegetables?+
Traditionally, sayote or green papaya are often added for extra texture.
