As I stood in my kitchen, the unmistakable aroma of simmering spices danced in the air, pulling me into a comforting embrace that only a bowl of homemade Pho can offer. This Chicken Pho recipe is not only a delightful twist on traditional Vietnamese cuisine, but it also promises a quick and satisfying meal perfect for those busy weeknights or when you crave something soul-soothing. With just a handful of ingredients and the magic of rotisserie chicken, you can whip up a fragrant bowl of warmth that’s full of flavor in under an hour. Imagine diving into those tender noodles, fresh herbs, and a splash of lime juice that lift your spirits. Ready to take your taste buds on a delightful adventure? Let's get cooking!
What makes this Pho irresistible?
Warmth and Comfort: This homemade Pho envelops you in cozy flavors, perfect for chilly evenings or when you're feeling under the weather.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and using rotisserie chicken, it's a hassle-free dinner solution for busy lives.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of ginger, fish sauce, and star anise creates a robust broth that's inherently satisfying.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to skip or swap out ingredients, such as spices or garnishes, to match your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Serve it up at gatherings, and watch it disappear; this dish is always a hit with family and friends!
Healthful Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, this Pho not only warms the soul but nourishes the body too. Check out our guide on Asian noodle dishes for more delicious ideas!
Pho Ingredients
Dive into the delightful world of Pho with these essential ingredients for creating a soul-warming bowl!
For the Broth
• Chicken broth – A flavorful base that brings the essence of warmth.
• Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
• Fish sauce – Essential for depth, this enhances the umami flavor profile.
• Soy sauce – Contributes a rich, bold taste that complements the broth.
• Ginger – Fresh slices infuse the broth with a warm and spicy kick.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Star anise – Offers a unique licorice note; substitute with five-spice powder if needed.
For the Chicken
• Rotisserie chicken – A time-saver with tender, perfectly seasoned meat for that homemade touch.
For the Noodles
• Rice noodles – The heart of the dish; cook them just before serving for that authentic Pho experience.
For Garnishing
• Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint) – Brighten your bowl with aromatic herbs that elevate the flavors.
• Bean sprouts – Crunchy and fresh, they add a delightful texture.
• Jalapeños (optional) – For those who like it spicy, these bring a zesty kick!
• Lime wedges – Squeeze over your Pho for a burst of citrusy brightness.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect bowl of Pho that warms not just the belly but also the heart. Happy cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pho
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, combine 6 cups of chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, sliced ginger, onion, and star anise. Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, allowing those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Heat the Chicken
As the broth simmers, take your shredded rotisserie chicken and prepare to add it for added heartiness. In the last 10 minutes of simmering, incorporate the chicken into the pot, allowing it to heat through while soaking up the fragrant broth. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming, and enjoy the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
While the broth is simmering with the chicken, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will ensure they remain tender and springy as you prepare to serve your tasty Pho.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
With your broth and noodles ready, it’s time to put together your bowls of Pho. Start by placing a generous portion of the cooked rice noodles in each serving bowl. Using a ladle, carefully pour the hot broth and tender chicken over the noodles, ensuring that everyone gets a hearty helping of flavor and warmth.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
To add a fresh and vibrant touch, garnish each bowl with a handful of fresh herbs, such as basil, cilantro, and mint, along with a sprinkle of bean sprouts for crunch. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños on top. Serve the bowls with lime wedges on the side, perfect for squeezing over your Pho to enhance the flavors with a zesty kick.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious homemade Pho preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the broth and shred the rotisserie chicken up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating them separately in airtight containers. This allows the flavors to develop while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the broth over medium heat, add the shredded chicken to warm through in the last few minutes, and cook the rice noodles fresh as directed. By having the broth and chicken prepped ahead, you’ll have a comforting and flavorful meal on the table in minutes, making weeknight dinners effortless and satisfying!
Pho Variations & Substitutions
Looking to personalize your Pho experience? Dive into these fun and flavorful changes!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a safe and delicious twist. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions!
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and tofu for the chicken. This will create a fresh and hearty alternative that still warms the soul.
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Spicy Upgrade: Increase the heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the broth for a vibrant kick that will surely warm you up!
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Herb Variety: Experiment with different herbs like Thai basil or even cilantro for a distinct flavor blend that this dish is sure to love. The combination creates a delightful bouquet!
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Crunchy Add-ins: Toss in some roasted peanuts as a garnish for a satisfying crunch, elevating your Pho’s texture and taste. Who wouldn’t love that extra layer?
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Coconut Milk: For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of coconut milk toward the end of cooking. This adds a luscious richness that’s simply divine!
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Rice Alternatives: Swap rice noodles for zucchini noodles or rice paper for a low-carb twist. This maintains the essence of Pho while keeping it lighter.
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Herb Infusion: Infuse the broth with fresh lemongrass for an aromatic brightness that elevates your Pho to a whole new aromatic level!
Explore these variations to make your homemade Pho truly yours. For more inspiration, check out our guide on Asian noodle dishes and see what other delicious ideas are waiting for you!
Expert Tips for the Best Pho
• Broth Balance: Ensure you balance the flavors by adjusting sugar and fish sauce; too much fish sauce can overpower the broth’s natural sweetness.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs right before serving to maintain their vibrant flavor; wilted herbs can detract from the overall dish experience.
• Noodle Timing: Cook rice noodles separately and just before serving; adding them too early can lead to mushy noodles in your Pho.
• Storage Savvy: If storing leftovers, keep the broth and noodles separate; this way, your noodles will stay firm and the broth tasty.
• Spice Sensibility: Add jalapeños or extra spices gradually; it's easier to enhance flavor than to correct an overly spicy Pho.
What to Serve with Pho (Chicken)
A warm bowl of Pho can be the star of any meal, but what can you pair with it to create a delightful dining experience?
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These delicious bites offer a satisfying crunch and fresh vegetable filling, complementing the flavors of the Pho beautifully.
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Herbed Rice: Offering a light, fragrant side, herbed rice enhances the meal while soaking up the broth's rich flavors, making each bite a burst of goodness.
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Peanut Sauce Dipping Vegetables: Fresh veggies paired with creamy peanut sauce provide a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, aromatic Pho.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky delights create a delightful doughy texture to dip into the fragrant broth, adding an unexpected twist to your meal.
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Cold Thai Salad: A zesty, vinegary Thai salad adds a refreshing crunch that balances the warmth of the Pho with its bright, vibrant flavors.
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Iced Vietnamese Coffee: This sweet and strong beverage is the perfect counterpart to your Pho, cutting through the richness and reviving your palate with each sip.
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Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado adds a unique texture and richness that balances the spice of the Pho, creating a creamy, satisfying finish to the meal.
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Coconut Tapioca Pudding: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert, which pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the Pho for a satisfying finish.
How to Store and Freeze Pho
Fridge: Store leftover Pho in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the broth and noodles separate to maintain texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the broth in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Noodles should be kept in a separate bag.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the broth in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stove. Cook noodles fresh for the best texture, adding them just before serving.
Leftovers: Enhance leftover Pho by adding fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime before enjoying.
Pho (Chicken) Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken broth is best for Pho?
Absolutely! A high-quality chicken broth enhances the flavor immensely. Look for brands that are low-sodium to control the salt levels in your dish. If you're feeling adventurous, homemade broth is always a great option—you can simmer leftover bones and veggies to create a rich, flavorful base.
How should I store leftover Pho?
Very good question! Store your leftovers in an airtight container, keeping the broth and noodles separate to maintain the texture. The broth can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, while the noodles will stay fresh for just as long. If you’re not planning to eat it right away, consider adding the noodles to your broth only when you're ready to serve.
Can I freeze Pho?
Yes, you can! For optimal results, freeze the broth in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure the broth is completely cooled before sealing it. For the noodles, keep them in a separate bag to avoid mushiness. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw the broth overnight in the fridge, and cook the noodles fresh right before serving.
What if my broth tastes too salty?
Don't worry, it happens! If your broth is too salty, you can add a small potato or carrot while it simmers; both will absorb some saltiness. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, then remove the vegetable before serving. Alternatively, increase the volume of your broth by adding additional water, but keep in mind that you may need to adjust the other seasonings afterward.
Can I use other proteins in my Pho?
Absolutely! While this recipe highlights chicken, you can use various proteins like beef, shrimp, or tofu. For beef, thinly sliced sirloin works beautifully; just add it directly to the hot broth to cook through. With shrimp or tofu, follow similar steps to add them towards the end of cooking for tender, flavorful results.
Is Pho safe for my pet to eat?
While the ingredients in Pho are generally safe for pets, it's best to avoid giving your furry friend any seasoned broth or noodles high in sodium. If you want to share a taste, consider offering plain chicken or rice without any spices as a special treat!
Delicious Homemade Pho Recipe That Warms the Soul
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
For the Broth
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 inch ginger, sliced
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 2 pieces star anise
For the Chicken
- 1 large rotisserie chicken, shredded
For the Noodles
- 8 ounces rice noodles
For Garnishing
- 1 cup fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 each jalapeños (optional), sliced
- 2 pieces lime wedges
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth, sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, sliced ginger, onion, and star anise. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30-40 minutes.
- In the last 10 minutes of simmering, add shredded rotisserie chicken to the broth and let it heat through.
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions (6-8 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Place cooked rice noodles in each serving bowl, then pour hot broth and chicken over the noodles.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, jalapeños, and lime wedges.
