Easy Vietnamese Chicken Pho Recipe

Pho is a dish that holds a special place in the hearts of many around the world, and for good reason. This classic Vietnamese dish is known for its rich, aromatic broth, tender meat, and flavorful herbs and garnishes. While beef pho (pho bo) tends to get all the fame, the Vietnamese chicken pho recipe (pho ga) is a delicious and lighter alternative that’s equally comforting and satisfying.

In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most flavorful, quick, and easy Vietnamese chicken pho recipe at home. Get ready to enjoy this heartwarming dish that’s perfect for any time of the year!

What is Pho?

Pho is more than just a dish it’s a Vietnamese cultural symbol that has been enjoyed for centuries. Originating from the northern regions of Vietnam, pho has evolved into a beloved comfort food enjoyed across the world. The essence of pho lies in its broth, which is simmered for hours to develop deep, rich flavors. This broth is usually paired with either beef or chicken and served with fresh herbs, rice noodles, and various garnishes.

Pho’s History and Origins

Pho’s exact origins are debated, but most food historians believe that it first appeared in the early 20th century in Hanoi, Vietnam. Some suggest it was inspired by French-style pot-au-feu (a French stew), while others believe it’s a fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese culinary traditions. Regardless of its precise roots, pho has become a significant part of Vietnam’s food culture, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

• Beef Pho vs. Chicken Pho: While pho bo (beef pho) is the more famous version, chicken pho (pho ga) is a lighter and quicker alternative. It uses chicken stock instead of beef, and its broth is typically less fatty but still flavorful.

The Essential Elements of Pho

Pho has a simple yet complex flavor profile, with a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic notes. The key components of pho include:

1. Broth – The soul of pho, made by simmering bones and aromatics like onions, ginger, and spices.
2. Meat – Traditionally, pho is made with beef or chicken, but you can use other proteins like pork or tofu.
3. Rice Noodles – Pho noodles are flat, thin, and chewy.
4. Herbs and Garnishes – Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, bean sprouts, and lime wedges.

Why Choose Chicken Pho?

Healthier Option

Chicken pho is a great alternative to beef pho, especially if you’re looking for a lighter meal. Chicken, particularly the breast or thigh, is leaner than beef and provides a lower-fat option without sacrificing flavor.

• Calories: A bowl of chicken pho typically has fewer calories compared to beef pho.
• Lean Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, making it a healthier choice for those who are mindful of their fat intake.

Quick to Cook

Compared to beef pho, chicken pho is quicker to prepare because the chicken cooks faster than beef. You can have a steaming bowl of pho in less than an hour, which makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need something satisfying without the wait.

Delicate Flavor

Chicken pho broth tends to be lighter and more aromatic than beef pho, offering a more delicate and nuanced flavor profile. The chicken stock is infused with aromatic spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, giving it a subtle depth without overwhelming your taste buds.

The Key Ingredients for This Easy Chicken Pho Recipe

The success of any pho lies in the quality of ingredients used. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for this quick chicken pho recipe:

1. Chicken

• Whole chicken or chicken thighs are often used to provide a rich, flavorful stock. For a leaner option, you can use chicken breast, but thighs tend to give a richer flavor.
• Chicken broth: If you’re short on time, you can use good-quality store-bought chicken stock.

2. Pho Broth

• Store-bought stock: If you’re in a rush, opt for a high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth. Look for brands that use natural ingredients without added preservatives or artificial flavors.
• Homemade stock: For those who want a truly authentic taste, you can make a quick homemade pho broth by simmering chicken bones, onions, ginger, and aromatic spices.

3. Rice Noodles

• Pho requires flat rice noodles that are thin and chewy. You can find these noodles in most Asian grocery stores. The noodles should be cooked separately and added to the broth just before serving.

4. Aromatics & Spices

• Star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom are essential in creating the distinct, aromatic flavor of pho.
• Onions and ginger: These are charred and simmered to infuse the broth with deep, smoky flavors.

5. Herbs and Garnishes

• Basil, cilantro, lime wedges, and bean sprouts are must-have garnishes that give pho its fresh, vibrant flavor.
• Optional chili peppers and hoisin sauce for added heat and sweetness.

6. Fish Sauce & Sugar

• Fish sauce provides a deep umami flavor, while sugar adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements of the broth.

How to Make Easy Vietnamese Chicken Pho

Making pho at home doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a quick and easy Vietnamese chicken pho at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by preparing the broth, as it needs to simmer for a while to develop rich flavors.

1. Simmer the chicken: Place the chicken in a pot of water with onions, ginger, and aromatic spices. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
2. Skim the broth: During the simmering process, make sure to skim the impurities off the surface to keep the broth clear.
3. Season the broth: After 30 minutes, season the broth with fish sauce and a pinch of sugar. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the broth: Remove the chicken and strain the broth to ensure it’s clear and free of any solids.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles and Chicken

1. Cook the noodles: Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set them aside.
2. Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Pho

1. Place noodles in bowls: Divide the cooked noodles among serving bowls.
2. Add the chicken: Top the noodles with shredded chicken.
3. Pour the hot broth: Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and chicken.
4. Garnish: Add fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and bean sprouts. Serve with lime wedges and chili peppers on the side.

Can You Freeze This Easy Vietnamese Chicken Pho?

Yes, you can freeze parts of this easy Vietnamese chicken pho recipe for later use.

Freezing the Broth

You can freeze the pho broth for up to 3 months. Let the broth cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to use, simply thaw and reheat the broth, then assemble the pho as usual.

Freezing Noodles and Chicken

It’s not ideal to freeze noodles once they are cooked, as they may become mushy when reheated. However, you can freeze shredded chicken for up to 3 months. When reheating, just add the frozen chicken to the hot broth.

Reheating Pho

To reheat pho, bring the broth to a boil and cook the noodles separately. Once both are heated, assemble the pho with fresh garnishes and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Pho

Authenticity in Simplicity

The key to an amazing pho is balance. The best pho doesn’t require many ingredients, but it does require the right ones and the right cooking technique. Don’t overcomplicate the process to the basics and let the broth shine.

Customization

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit your taste. Add extra chili peppers for heat or hoisin sauce for sweetness. Pho is highly customizable, so make it your own.

Pho Pairings

Pho is often enjoyed with banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), egg rolls, or a refreshing Asian iced tea. These pairings complement pho’s lightness and add variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pho

1. Not simmering the broth long enough: A good pho broth requires at least 1 hour to develop full flavor.
2. Using low-quality stock: Always use the best chicken stock available for a richer, more flavorful broth.
3. Overcooking the noodles: Pho noodles should be cooked al dente to maintain their texture.
4. Skipping the garnishes: The garnishes are a crucial part of pho’s appeal. Don’t skimp on the herbs, lime, or chili!

FAQs

Can I use beef instead of chicken for pho?

Yes, you can use beef in place of chicken for a traditional pho bo. The broth and spices are the same, but the meat and cooking time will vary.

Can I make pho without fish sauce?

Fish sauce is a key ingredient for adding depth and umami to pho broth. If you can’t use fish sauce, try a soy sauce alternative for a similar savory flavor.

Can pho be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian pho by using vegetable broth and tofu or mushrooms in place of meat.

What’s the best way to store leftover pho?

Store leftover pho broth and chicken separately. Noodles should be stored in an airtight container and added fresh when reheating.

How do I keep pho from becoming soggy?

To prevent soggy noodles, cook them separately and only add them to the hot broth just before serving.