Pho, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, is often perceived as a challenging dish to make at home. But fear not! This easy chicken pho recipe proves that a comforting and flavorful bowl of this fragrant soup can be achieved without hours of simmering and complex techniques. This recipe focuses on delivering authentic flavors with simplified steps, perfect for even the busiest weeknights.
What is Chicken Pho?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's briefly understand what makes chicken pho so special. It's more than just a soup; it's a culinary experience. The rich broth, infused with aromatic spices like star anise, cloves, and cinnamon, forms the foundation. Tender chicken, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime complete the symphony of flavors. This recipe emphasizes achieving that delicious depth of flavor while making the process as easy as possible.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Pho
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For the Broth:
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 4 cups water
- 2-inch piece of ginger, smashed
- 3 star anise
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 2 scallions, roughly chopped (white and light green parts only)
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce (adjust to taste)
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For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
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For Serving:
- 8 oz dried rice noodles (banh pho)
- Fresh herbs: cilantro, basil, Thai basil (if available)
- Bean sprouts
- Lime wedges
- Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional)
Easy Chicken Pho Recipe Instructions
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Prepare the Broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, water, ginger, star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, onion, and scallions. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the richer the broth becomes.
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Cook the Chicken: While the broth simmers, season the chicken with salt and pepper. You can either poach the chicken in the broth during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering or cook it separately. For separate cooking, boil or pan-fry until cooked through. Once cooked, shred or slice the chicken.
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Prepare the Noodles: Cook the rice noodles according to package directions. Rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
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Assemble Your Pho: Divide the cooked noodles among bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles. Add the shredded chicken. Garnish generously with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a lime wedge.
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Season to Taste: Add a dash of fish sauce if needed. Serve immediately with sriracha or chili garlic sauce on the side for those who prefer extra spice.
How Long Does Chicken Pho Last?
Properly stored, leftover chicken pho can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
Can I Make Chicken Pho in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! For a hands-off approach, combine all broth ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the chicken during the last hour of cooking.
What are the Best Rice Noodles for Pho?
Look for dried rice noodles specifically labeled as "banh pho" for the best results. These noodles are wider and flatter than other types of rice noodles, creating the ideal texture for pho.
Is Chicken Pho Healthy?
Yes, chicken pho can be a healthy and nutritious meal. It’s a good source of protein from the chicken and provides vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and herbs. However, the sodium content can be high depending on the broth used, so using low-sodium broth is recommended.
Conclusion
This easy chicken pho recipe provides a delicious and accessible gateway to experiencing the authentic flavors of this beloved Vietnamese soup. Enjoy the simple process and the rewarding taste of homemade pho! Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking; culinary creativity is encouraged!
