Vietnamese Chicken Pho Soup, known as Phở Gà, is a delightful dish beloved for its comforting qualities and flavorful broth. Each bowl brims with tender poached chicken, aromatic herbs, and soft rice noodles, creating a warm embrace for the senses. The foundation of this classic Vietnamese dish is its clear broth, simmered to perfection, providing a rich backdrop for the fresh ingredients that adorn it. The combination of ginger, green onions, and coriander seeds infuses the broth with an aromatic flair that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. From the moment the spices hit the heat, releasing their fragrance, to the final assembly of ingredients in a bowl, chicken pho encapsulates the art of balancing flavors. It’s perfect for any hour of the day, whether you’re seeking a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s highly customizable with garnishes that allow each diner to tailor their bowl to their liking. So grab your apron and prepare to dive into this delightful journey of flavors with our easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 cm piece of ginger, sliced and bruised
- 2 green onions (whites bruised, greens sliced)
- 15 g cilantro sprigs and leaves
- 1½ tsp coriander seeds
- 1 whole clove
- 840–1000 ml low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 180–225 g boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 150 g dried flat rice noodles
- 2–3 tsp fish sauce
- ½ tsp sugar or 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)
- Pepper to taste
- Bean sprouts, Thai basil, mint, cilantro leaves, lime wedges, and sliced chilies for garnish
Instructions
Begin your culinary adventure by toasting the coriander seeds and clove in a large pot over medium heat. Allow them to toast for about 1 to 2 minutes, just until they become fragrant. This step is crucial; the aromas that fill your kitchen will set the stage for the delicious broth to come.
Next, add the sliced ginger and the bruised white parts of the green onions to the pot. Sauté briefly for about 30 seconds, letting their flavors mingle. Now, it’s time to transform our fragrant base into a soup. Pour in the chicken broth and the cups of water. Throw in the cilantro sprigs, the chicken (either breast or thighs), and sprinkle in some sea salt.
Bring this delightful mixture to a rapid boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. It’s essential to poach the chicken gently; let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken once cooked and set it aside to cool. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Allow the broth to simmer for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. After this has elapsed, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the solids. This step ensures a clean and aromatic broth base.
While your broth simmers, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. They’ll soak up all the delicious broth later.
To finish the broth, season it with fish sauce, a pinch of sugar (or maple syrup for a sweeter touch), and freshly ground pepper to your liking. Don’t be shy! This is where you get to personalize the taste of your pho.
Now, it’s time to assemble your bowls. Divide the cooked noodles and shredded chicken among two bowls evenly. Finally, ladle the hot broth generously over the noodles and chicken, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The finishing touches are essential: garnish your soup with the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chilies.
Variations
The beauty of Vietnamese Chicken Pho lies in its versatility. Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste preferences. For a richer flavor profile, consider adding star anise or cardamom pods during the broth-making process. Both spices will enhance the aromatic qualities you expect from a traditional pho.
If you’re looking for a heartier dish, make the most of vegetables! You could add carrots, mushrooms, or bok choy to the broth while it simmers. This addition not only boosts the nutrition but also contributes to the overall texture and flavor complexity. For those who prefer a different protein, beef brisket or shrimp can be delicious alternatives. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
Furthermore, if you’re keen to experiment with garnishes, consider avocado slices or sliced radishes for a fresh crunch. Noodles can also be swapped with whole grain or spiralized vegetables for a gluten-free twist on the classic!
Cooking Notes
This dish is all about flowing with flavors, but there are a few tips to enhance your cooking efficiency. The prep time is quick, but ensure you have all ingredients ready before you start. This speeds up the cooking process and reduces stress!
When poaching chicken, ensure that the heat stays low to maintain tenderness. High heat can result in a rubbery texture. Using a meat thermometer can help; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Your choice of chicken can make a difference, too. Thighs are generally juicier and more forgiving to cook than breasts. Just remember, if you opt for chicken thighs, the cooking time may vary slightly.
Lastly, a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth is perfect for straining, ensuring your broth is perfectly clear. Keep an eye on seasoning; it’s easier to add more than to take away!
Serving Suggestions
Serving your Vietnamese Chicken Pho should be an art in itself. Start by placing the noodles and shredded chicken in an eye-catching bowl. Next, ladle the steaming broth generously over the top, allowing the aroma to envelop each bowl. Finish by artfully arranging your garnishes in a vibrant display.
Pair this soup with a refreshing side salad, perhaps drizzled with lime juice, or a plate of spring rolls to complete the meal. Don’t forget a warm baguette to soak up any leftover broth—a perfect way to enjoy every last drop!
Tips
- Make your pho a day ahead for deeper flavors; just re-heat before serving.
- Don’t skip the garnishes; they brighten and add freshness.
- Taste as you go; adjust the seasoning to meet your preference.
- Feel free to make a larger batch; pho stores well in the fridge for a few days.
- Vegetarian broth can be used to create a vegetarian pho!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 430
Protein: 40g
Sodium: 550mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this Pho vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth, and skip the chicken or use tofu instead to create a delicious vegetarian pho.
2. How do I store Pho leftovers?
Store the broth and noodles separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.
3. Can I freeze Pho?
Yes, you can freeze the broth without the noodles. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then add fresh noodles.
4. What’s the best way to reheat Pho?
Reheat the broth separately and add freshly cooked noodles when serving for the best texture and flavor.
5. How do I make Pho gluten-free?
Ensure that fish sauce and noodles are labeled gluten-free and use gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute for added depth in flavor.
Conclusion
Vietnamese Chicken Pho Soup (Phở Gà) isn’t just a dish; it’s a warm embrace that captivates your taste buds and spirit. With its stunning flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion or casual weeknight dinner. This soup embodies comfort food at its finest, reminding us of home and the joys of sharing a meal with loved ones.
As you prepare this delightful dish, express your own creativity through variations and personal touches. Encourage your friends and family to join you in this culinary venture; the memories made over a bowl of pho will be cherished for years to come. Don’t forget to share your experience below, leave a comment, and share this recipe with those you love. Happy cooking and savoring the joyful warmth of homemade Pho!
Print
Delicious Vietnamese Chicken Pho Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Vietnamese Chicken Pho Soup, known as Phở Gà, is a delightful dish beloved for its comforting qualities and flavorful broth.
Ingredients
- 3 cm piece of ginger, sliced and bruised
- 2 green onions (whites bruised, greens sliced)
- 15 g cilantro sprigs and leaves
- 1½ tsp coriander seeds
- 1 whole clove
- 840–1000 ml low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 180–225 g boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 150 g dried flat rice noodles
- 2–3 tsp fish sauce
- ½ tsp sugar or 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)
- Pepper to taste
- Bean sprouts, Thai basil, mint, cilantro leaves, lime wedges, and sliced chilies for garnish
Instructions
- Begin your culinary adventure by toasting the coriander seeds and clove in a large pot over medium heat. Allow them to toast for about 1 to 2 minutes, just until they become fragrant. This step is crucial; the aromas that fill your kitchen will set the stage for the delicious broth to come.
- Next, add the sliced ginger and the bruised white parts of the green onions to the pot. Sauté briefly for about 30 seconds, letting their flavors mingle. Now, it’s time to transform our fragrant base into a soup. Pour in the chicken broth and the cups of water. Throw in the cilantro sprigs, the chicken (either breast or thighs), and sprinkle in some sea salt.
- Bring this delightful mixture to a rapid boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. It’s essential to poach the chicken gently; let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken once cooked and set it aside to cool. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Allow the broth to simmer for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. After this has elapsed, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the solids. This step ensures a clean and aromatic broth base.
- While your broth simmers, prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. They’ll soak up all the delicious broth later.
- To finish the broth, season it with fish sauce, a pinch of sugar (or maple syrup for a sweeter touch), and freshly ground pepper to your liking. Don’t be shy! This is where you get to personalize the taste of your pho.
- Now, it’s time to assemble your bowls. Divide the cooked noodles and shredded chicken among two bowls evenly. Finally, ladle the hot broth generously over the noodles and chicken, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The finishing touches are essential: garnish your soup with the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chilies.
Notes
This dish is all about flowing with flavors, but there are a few tips to enhance your cooking efficiency. The prep time is quick, but ensure you have all ingredients ready before you start. This speeds up the cooking process and reduces stress!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Protein: 40 g