Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe Philippines

Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is a classic dish served at family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Creamy, slightly sweet, and loaded with chicken, pasta, and colorful mix-ins, it’s a crowd favorite. This dish blends local flavors with Western influence, making it uniquely Filipino. If you’re looking for a rich, satisfying, and easy-to-make salad, this recipe is for you. Read on to learn how to make the perfect Chicken Macaroni Salad, just like how it’s enjoyed in the Philippines.

Introduction to Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe Philippines

Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is a beloved staple in many Filipino households, especially during holidays like Christmas, New Year, and family celebrations. Unlike the savory versions popular in Western cuisine, the Filipino version stands out with its creamy texture and sweet-savory flavor profile. It combines elbow macaroni with shredded chicken, mayonnaise, condensed milk, and a variety of colorful ingredients such as pineapple tidbits, carrots, raisins, and sometimes green peas or bell peppers.

This salad is usually served cold and often prepared in large batches, making it perfect for potlucks, parties, or as a make-ahead dish for busy weeks. The balance of flavors—tangy, sweet, creamy, and a touch of saltiness—makes it both comforting and festive.

What makes it truly special is its adaptability. Families have their own versions, often passed down through generations, with ingredients adjusted based on preference or availability. Whether you’re preparing it for a special event or just a comforting weekend meal, Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is always a heartwarming crowd-pleaser.

A Brief History: Origins of Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad has its roots in American cuisine, believed to have originated in the early 20th century as a simple cold pasta dish mixed with mayonnaise. It became popular for its convenience, affordability, and versatility—ideal for picnics and potlucks. Over time, the recipe evolved, with different cultures adapting it to their own tastes.

In the Philippines, macaroni salad arrived through American influence during the early 1900s, particularly during the American colonial period. As it became more common, Filipinos put their own spin on the dish. Ingredients like shredded chicken, sweetened condensed milk, pineapple tidbits, and raisins were added, transforming it into a uniquely Filipino creation.

The result is a sweeter, creamier, and more festive version of the original macaroni salad. It’s no longer just a side dish—it’s a celebration dish, often seen at birthdays, Christmas Noche Buena tables, and family gatherings. This Filipino-style chicken macaroni salad reflects the country’s love for rich, flavorful, and comforting food that brings people together.

Key Ingredients and Possible Substitutions

Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is known for its rich mix of ingredients that create a sweet, creamy, and savory flavor. While there are standard components, the recipe is flexible—perfect for using what you have on hand or tailoring to personal tastes. Below is a breakdown of the essential ingredients and suitable substitutions:

Main Ingredients:

Elbow Macaroni

This is the base of the salad. Its size and shape hold the dressing well.

• Substitute: Any short pasta like shell pasta or penne can work in a pinch.

Chicken Breast (boiled and shredded)

The primary protein source. Boiled or poached chicken ensures it stays tender.

• Substitute: Canned chicken (drained), rotisserie chicken, or even leftover turkey.

Mayonnaise

This makes the salad creamy and binds the ingredients together.

• Substitute: A mix of mayonnaise and plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Sweetened Condensed Milk

Adds a touch of sweetness that’s characteristic of the Filipino version.

• Substitute: Evaporated milk with a little sugar, or omit entirely if you prefer a less sweet version.

Pineapple Tidbits (drained)

Gives a fruity, tangy flavor and balances the richness.

• Substitute: Chopped apples, mango cubes, or omit if not preferred.

Raisins

Adds chewiness and natural sweetness.

• Substitute: Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or leave out if you’re not a fan.

Carrots (finely diced or grated)

Adds crunch, color, and a bit of earthiness.

• Substitute: Finely chopped red bell peppers or green peas.

Cheddar Cheese (cubed or shredded)

Adds a savory, salty bite that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.

• Substitute: Processed cheese cubes or mozzarella.

Onion (optional, finely chopped)

Adds a bit of sharpness to cut through the creaminess.

• Substitute: Spring onions for a milder taste, or omit entirely for a kid-friendly version.

Salt and Pepper to Taste

These enhance the overall flavor and bring balance.

Optional Add-ins:

• Green Bell Peppers: Adds color and crunch.
• Green Peas: For added texture and sweetness.
• Boiled Eggs (chopped): For extra richness and protein.

Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe

Making Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is simple and straightforward. With the right ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious, creamy salad ready to enjoy. Below is a complete, step-by-step recipe that serves 6 to 8 people.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup pineapple tidbits, drained
• ½ cup raisins
• ½ cup cheddar cheese, cubed
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced or grated
• ¼ cup green peas (optional)
• ¼ cup green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• ¼ small red onion, finely chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Macaroni:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let it cool completely.

Prepare the Chicken:

If not using pre-cooked chicken, boil chicken breast in water with a little salt. Once cooked through, let it cool and shred into small pieces.

Mix the Salad Base:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooled macaroni, pineapple tidbits, raisins, cheese cubes, carrots, and optional ingredients (green peas, bell pepper, onion).

Add Creamy Dressing:

Pour in the mayonnaise and sweetened condensed milk. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.

Season:

Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix again and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Chill Before Serving:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to set.

Tips for Best Results:

• Don’t overcook the pasta—it should be firm to avoid sogginess after mixing.
• Drain all canned ingredients thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
• Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor and texture.

Helpful Cooking Tips for Best Results

Creating the perfect Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is all about balance—flavor, texture, and freshness. Here are essential tips to help you get the best results every time:

Cook Pasta Al Dente

Avoid overcooking the macaroni. It should be firm yet tender (al dente) so it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the creamy dressing. After cooking, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.

Use Freshly Cooked and Cooled Chicken

Boil or poach chicken breast until tender, then shred or dice it finely. Let it cool completely before adding it to the salad to avoid warming the mayonnaise and curdling the dressing.

Drain Ingredients Thoroughly

Canned ingredients like pineapple tidbits and green peas should be well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery. Excess moisture will thin the dressing and ruin the texture.

Balance Sweetness and Creaminess

Filipino macaroni salad is naturally sweet, but the sweetness level can be adjusted to your preference. Start with less sweetened condensed milk and taste as you go. You can also reduce the raisins or pineapple if you prefer a less sweet profile.

Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 to 4 hours (or overnight) before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps the dressing thicken and cling to the ingredients better.

Mix Gently

Use a large spoon or spatula to fold the ingredients together slowly. This helps maintain the texture of the pasta and prevents breaking or mashing soft items like cheese and boiled carrots.

Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Once chilled, give the salad a final taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Cold dishes sometimes need a little more seasoning than warm ones.

Add Onions Last or Serve on the Side

If you’re using onions, consider adding them just before serving or offering them on the side. Onions can become overpowering over time, especially in a chilled salad.

Make in Advance

This dish is great for make-ahead prep. You can cook the pasta and chicken a day ahead and store them separately, then mix everything the next day.

Ingredient Variations for Different Occasions

One of the best things about Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is its flexibility. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or just a casual lunch, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit the occasion, your taste, or what you have on hand. Here are some popular variations and how to make them work for different events:

Holiday-Style Macaroni Salad (Christmas, New Year, Birthdays)

For festive occasions, Filipinos often make a richer, sweeter, and more colorful version of the salad.

Additions:

• Diced ham or sweetened cooked ham for added meatiness
• Sweet pickle relish for a tangy kick
• Chopped red and green bell peppers for holiday colors
• Extra cheese cubes for a creamy, salty bite
• Boiled eggs for extra richness and decoration on top

Tip: Serve in a decorative bowl or tray and garnish with parsley, sliced eggs, or cheese on top.

Father’s Day or Men’s Gathering Version

For a more savory and hearty twist, reduce the sweetness and focus on protein.

Modifications:

• Use less condensed milk or skip it altogether
• Add more chicken or chopped bacon
• Include hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• Use a blend of mayonnaise and sour cream or plain yogurt for a tangier, less sweet flavor

Tip: Serve with grilled dishes or barbecue for a satisfying meal.

Kid-Friendly Version

Make the salad more appealing to children by keeping it simple, creamy, and mildly sweet.

Kid-approved tweaks:

• Use shredded cheese instead of cubes
• Skip onions and bell peppers for a milder taste
• Go heavier on the condensed milk and raisins
• Add mini pasta shapes for fun

Tip: Serve in small cups or bowls with a sprinkle of grated cheese on top.

Healthier or Lighter Version

Perfect for regular days or health-conscious eaters.

Health tweaks:

• Use low-fat or light mayonnaise
• Replace part of the mayo with Greek yogurt
• Add more veggies like celery, cucumber, or steamed broccoli
• Use whole wheat pasta
• Add less cheese and limit condensed milk

Tip: Serve with grilled lean meat or as a side to a light entrée.

Potluck or Party-Size Version

Need to feed a crowd? This salad scales well.

Adjustments:

• Double or triple the ingredients
• Use a mix of shredded chicken and diced ham for volume
• Add more budget-friendly fillers like carrots, peas, and macaroni
• Make the dressing ahead and mix in just before serving

Tip: Keep it chilled in a cooler or ice tray when serving outdoors.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways depending on the occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast, a casual family meal, or a party potluck, how you serve and pair it makes a big difference in enjoyment. Below are practical and delicious serving ideas to make the most of this creamy and flavorful salad.

Serve It Chilled

This salad is always best served cold. After mixing, refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to set. Chilling also enhances the creamy texture and prevents it from tasting overly rich.

• Serving Tip: Keep it in the fridge until just before serving, especially during warm weather, to avoid spoilage.

As a Side Dish

Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad makes a great side dish to many savory meals. It balances out dishes that are salty, spicy, or fried.

Perfect Pairings:

• Fried or grilled chicken
• Barbecue pork or chicken
• Embutido (Filipino meatloaf)
• Lechon or roasted meats
• Crispy fried lumpia

As a Standalone Light Meal

Because it contains protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, it can also serve as a light lunch or dinner.

Serving Ideas:

• Portion it into individual bowls or containers for lunchboxes
• Add a slice of bread or garlic toast on the side
• Serve with a small green salad to balance the richness

For Parties and Potlucks

This dish is a potluck favorite and holds up well on a buffet table.

Presentation Tips:

• Serve in a large, decorative bowl
• Garnish with grated cheese, sliced hard-boiled eggs, or parsley
• Use a chilled serving tray or place over ice to keep it fresh

Holiday or Special Occasion Plating

For festive gatherings, make the dish stand out with creative plating.

Festive Garnishes:

• Form into a ring mold with cheese or egg slices on top
• Use colorful vegetables (like bell peppers or pimiento) for visual appeal
• Add Christmas-themed toothpicks or food picks if serving at a party

As Part of a Filipino Fiesta Spread

Chicken macaroni salad is often part of the Noche Buena (Christmas Eve dinner) or birthday handaan (party) lineup.

Serve Alongside:

• Spaghetti or pancit
• Fried rice or arroz caldo
• Fruit salad or leche flan for dessert

Storage Tips: Shelf Life and Freezing

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality, flavor, and safety of your Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad. Since the dish contains perishable ingredients like mayonnaise, chicken, and dairy, following food-safe practices is important—especially in warm climates.

How Long Can Chicken Macaroni Salad Last?

In the Refrigerator:

When stored in an airtight container and kept consistently cold, chicken macaroni salad can last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture and taste, it’s recommended to consume it within 2 to 3 days.

At Room Temperature:

Do not leave the salad out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour in hot conditions). Bacteria can grow rapidly in dishes containing mayonnaise and chicken.

Best Practices for Refrigeration

Use airtight containers:

This prevents the salad from absorbing odors from other foods and helps retain moisture and creaminess.

Label and date:

Label your container with the storage date so you’ll know when it’s time to use or toss it.

Stir before serving:

After refrigeration, the dressing may separate slightly. Stir the salad well to restore its creamy consistency.

Can You Freeze Chicken Macaroni Salad?

Not recommended:

Freezing is generally not advised for this type of salad. Mayonnaise and dairy-based dressings tend to separate or become watery when thawed. The texture of the pasta and vegetables also suffers—turning mushy or grainy.

Alternative approach:

If you want to save time, consider freezing only the cooked chicken and boiled macaroni (stored separately). When ready to serve, thaw and mix in fresh ingredients and dressing for the best result.

Make-Ahead Tips

Prep ingredients in advance:

Boil pasta and cook chicken a day ahead. Store them separately and assemble the salad the next day.

Mix dressing just before chilling:

Combine all ingredients with the dressing at least a few hours before serving to let the flavors develop, but avoid making it too far in advance to preserve freshness.

Nutrition Information and Health Benefits

Filipino Chicken Macaroni Salad is rich, filling, and flavorful—but like many creamy dishes, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Understanding its nutritional profile can help you enjoy it as part of a balanced diet. Below is a general look at what’s in a standard serving, along with its potential health benefits and ways to make it lighter if needed.

Estimated Nutrition per 1-Cup Serving

(Note: Values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.)

• Calories: 300–400 kcal
• Protein: 12–15 grams
• Fat: 15–25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30–40 grams
• Sugars: 8–12 grams
• Fiber: 1–2 grams
• Sodium: 300–500 mg

Key Nutritional Components

Protein:

The shredded chicken provides a good amount of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.

Carbohydrates:

The elbow macaroni serves as the main source of energy-giving carbs. It’s filling and makes the salad satisfying as a full meal or side.

Fats:

Most of the fat content comes from mayonnaise and cheese, which contribute to its creamy richness. Some fats are necessary for absorbing nutrients, but portions should be controlled.

Vitamins and Minerals:

Ingredients like carrots, pineapple, and bell peppers contribute vitamin A, C, and antioxidants, while cheese and milk provide calcium.

Health Benefits (When Eaten in Moderation)

• Satisfying and high in protein: Keeps you full longer and reduces cravings.
• Good source of energy: Perfect for busy days or as part of a celebration meal.
• Family-friendly dish: Encourages kids to eat more diverse ingredients like carrots and raisins.

Tips to Make It Healthier

If you’re looking to lighten the dish without compromising flavor, consider these modifications:

Use low-fat mayonnaise or mix it with plain Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie, higher-protein dressing. Reduce or omit condensed milk to lower sugar content. Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and longer-lasting energy. Add more vegetables (like celery, cucumber, or bell peppers) to boost nutrients. Cut down on cheese or use a light version.

Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe Philippines

Discover a creamy and flavorful chicken macaroni salad recipe Philippines style — perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday meals. Easy to make with tender chicken, sweet relish, and mayonnaise!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ cups dry uncooked macaroni pasta I used Barilla
• 1 small can pineapple tidbits well drained
• ½ cup cheddar cheese cut in small cubes I used extra old cheddar
• 1 carrot finely diced
• 2 pcs chicken breasts cooked and flaked
• 1 apple cut in small cubes
• ½ cup raisins
• 1 ¼ – 1 ½ cups mayo use 1 ½ cups if you want it creamier
• 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup condensed milk

Method

 

1. To cook chicken breast : Place chicken in a pot and add enough water to cover it by half an inch (over the chicken). Add 1 teaspoon salt and 1 small onion (halved) and ½ teaspoon whole peppercorns. Bring to a boil then simmer on low for 30 minutes (if chicken is bone-in). Simmer for about 15 minutes if using boneless chicken. Remove the scum that rises to the top while it’s coming up to a boil. Make sure chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the liquid then flake using 2 forks. Set aside to cool. (Reserve chicken broth for another use)
2. Cook the pasta according to package direction. Add a teaspoon of salt to the cooking liquid. Drain and give it a quick rinse to stop the cooking. Transfer to a big bowl to completely cool.
3. Once cool, add the rest of the ingredients including the flaked chicken then gently (but thoroughly) mix to combine. It may look runny at first but once it’s refrigerated, the pasta will absorb most of the liquid. Transfer to a container with a tight-fitting lid (or cover tightly with plastic wrap). Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. I find it best to serve the next day so the flavors are well absorbed by the pasta. Serve cold.