Easy Chicken Pho Soup Recipe

This Easy Chicken Pho Soup Recipe Will Warm Your Soul in 30 Minutes

There’s something magical about a steaming hot bowl of pho on a chilly evening. I still remember the first time I tasted pho ga (Vietnamese chicken pho) at a tiny family-run restaurant—it was love at first spoonful. The rich, fragrant broth, tender chicken, chewy noodles, and vibrant fresh toppings made every bite a perfect balance of flavors. But I used to think making pho at home would be complicated. Fast forward to today, and I’ve learned that you can create a pho soup recipe easy chicken style right in your own kitchen—without spending hours simmering stock.

This recipe is designed for busy home cooks who want authentic Vietnamese flavors but don’t have time for an all-day process. In just about 30 minutes, you can make a hearty, soul-warming bowl of chicken pho that feels restaurant-worthy. Even better, I’ll show you how to make it three ways: stovetop, crock pot, and Instant Pot—so you can choose what works best for your kitchen.

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What Is Chicken Pho (Pho Ga)?

Pho (pronounced “fuh”) is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. While many people are familiar with beef pho (pho bo), pho ga uses chicken instead of beef. It’s lighter, quicker, and perfect for weeknight dinners or quick family meals. The beauty of pho is in its balance: savory broth, tender protein, chewy noodles, and customizable toppings like herbs, lime, and chili.

Pho isn’t just food—it’s comfort in a bowl. It has the power to bring people together around the table, whether you serve it at a dinner party or as a cozy solo meal after a long day.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Pho Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, unlike traditional pho that can take hours.
• Delicious & Hearty: The chicken broth is packed with flavor, and the noodles make it filling.
• Authentic Yet Simple: Inspired by traditional Vietnamese cooking, simplified for home kitchens.
• Flexible Cooking Methods: Make it on the stovetop, or go hands-off with a crock pot or Instant Pot.
• Customizable: Keep it mild for the kids or make it a spicy pho with chili oil and sriracha.

Ingredients: Fresh & Flavorful

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious chicken pho at home:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast for leaner version)
• 6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups (480 ml) water
• 1 large onion, peeled and halved
• 3-inch (7.5 cm) piece of fresh ginger, sliced lengthwise
• 3 star anise pods
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 8 oz (225 g) rice noodles
• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• 2–3 red chilies, sliced (optional for spicy pho)
• Hoisin sauce and sriracha, for serving

How to Make Easy Chicken Pho Soup (Pho Ga)

Step 1: Toast Aromatics

In a dry skillet, lightly char the onion and ginger until fragrant and slightly blackened. This adds depth to the broth and gives it that authentic Vietnamese flavor.

Step 2: Build the Broth

In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, charred onion, ginger, star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken thighs and simmer for 10–12 minutes, until fully cooked. Remove, shred with a fork, and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Prepare the rice noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

In each bowl, place a portion of noodles, shredded chicken, and ladle hot broth over the top. Add fresh toppings: bean sprouts, cilantro, basil, mint, lime, and chili slices. Drizzle hoisin and sriracha if desired.

And just like that—you’ve made a hearty, delicious, authentic bowl of Vietnamese pho ga in about 30 minutes!

Crock Pot & Instant Pot Variations

Sometimes I like to let my kitchen appliances do the heavy lifting. If you’re the same, here’s how to adapt:

• Crock Pot Method: Add broth, aromatics, spices, and chicken to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Remove chicken, shred, and return to the broth. This method gives the best deep-flavored broth.
• Instant Pot Method: Add all ingredients, lock the lid, and cook on HIGH pressure for 15 minutes. Quick release. Remove chicken, shred, and return to the broth. Perfect when you want pho in a hurry!

Both methods make pho night even easier, especially if you’re juggling work, kids, or just craving comfort food without extra effort.

Flavor Boosts & Customizations

One thing I love about pho is how flexible it is. Here’s how to tailor it to your family’s taste:

• Spicy Pho: Add chili oil, sliced red chilies, or extra sriracha.
• Kid-Friendly: Keep it mild, skip the chilies, and let kids add toppings they like.
• Asian Twist: Swap rice noodles for egg noodles for a chewier texture.
• Seasonal Toppings: Try mushrooms in winter, fresh spring onions in spring.

Kitchen Essentials I Recommend (Amazon Finds)

When I first started making pho at home, I realized a few tools make the process so much smoother. Here are three of my favorite finds:

1. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker

If you want to make pho fast without babysitting the stove, an Instant Pot is a game changer. I use it not only for pho but also for soups, stews, and rice. It delivers a rich, flavorful broth in minutes.

Check the Instant Pot Duo on Amazon here

2. Oxo Good Grips 3-Piece Fine Mesh Strainer Set

A clear, aromatic broth is what makes pho truly shine. These fine mesh strainers help you remove spices and onion bits effortlessly, leaving you with a restaurant-quality base.

Get your OXO Mesh Strainer Set on Amazon here

3. Ceramic Pho Bowls with Chopsticks & Spoons Set

Serving pho in the right bowl makes the experience feel authentic. I invested in a set of oversized pho bowls with chopsticks and soup spoons, and it elevates every meal. They’re microwave and dishwasher safe, too!

Find these beautiful Pho Bowl Sets on Amazon here

Serving & Presentation Tips

The joy of pho is in the ritual. Here’s how I serve it at home:

1. Place noodles and chicken in each bowl.

2. Ladle steaming broth over the top.

3. Set out a toppings platter so everyone can build their own authentic Vietnamese pho: bean sprouts, lime wedges, herbs, and sauces.

It’s interactive, fun, and turns dinner into a shared experience.

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Pho

• Keep the broth clear: Skim off foam while simmering.
• Balance flavors: Adjust fish sauce, lime, and chili to taste.
• Shortcut tip: Use rotisserie chicken when you’re really pressed for time.
• Storage: Store broth and noodles separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze extra broth for future meals.

FAQs About Chicken Pho

Is pho soup healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with lean protein, herbs, and light broth, making it a wholesome, low-fat option.

Can I freeze pho broth?

Absolutely. Freeze broth in portions for quick weeknight meals. Just add fresh noodles and toppings later.

What noodles work best?

Thin rice noodles are traditional, but medium rice noodles also work well.

How do I make pho gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and double-check your fish sauce label. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Making pho soup recipe easy chicken at home doesn’t have to be intimidating. With fresh ingredients, a little spice, and the right method—whether stovetop, crock pot, or Instant Pot—you can whip up a bowl of authentic Vietnamese pho ga that’s both hearty and delicious.

For me, pho has become more than just dinner—it’s comfort, connection, and tradition all in one bowl. And once you try it, I think you’ll agree: it’s one of the best quick family meals you’ll ever make.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, heat up that pot, and treat yourself to a homemade pho night. Your soul (and your taste buds) will thank you.