Easy Chicken Pho

How To Make Chicken Pho

Making an authentic chicken pho recipe, also known as “pho ga,” is an incredibly complex process. To make our simplified chicken pho, you need just a few simple ingredients. With our guide, you’ll master how to make this warming meal, right in your kitchen. You can find the full recipe below.

Soak the Noodles

We save time (and a pan) by microwaving water for soaking the noodles. It’s important to soften the noodles before adding to the broth. If you skip this step, the noodles will absorb most of the cooking liquid and you won’t have any delicious broth to slurp!

Make the Broth

While the noodles soak, bring chicken broth, hoisin sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder to a boil, then stir in cooked chicken and just the whites of some green onions.

Add Noodles and Toppings

Remove from heat, add your soaked noodles and green onion greens. Then, all that’s left to do is add toppings to your heart’s desire. Check out our recommended toppings below.

Chicken Pho Toppings

When it comes to creating the best chicken pho recipe, selecting the perfect combination of toppings is essential. Arrange toppings in individual bowls, letting your guests customize their bowl to their tastes. For an interactive meal, set up a pho station with bowls, spoons, chopsticks, and all the toppings for a fun and engaging dining experience. Now, what toppings should you prepare?

Fresh Herbs: Herbs are what take a basic chicken pho to the best chicken pho recipe ever. They add a layer of freshness that enhances the overall flavor profile. Mint, cilantro, and basil leaves are a classic combo. For anise-laden, slightly peppery taste sensation, use Thai basil instead of regular basil.

Vegetables: These are ubiquitous in any authentic chicken pho recipe. Add them raw or lightly blanched for a delightful crunch. Try sliced greens, cabbage, or bamboo shoots.

Sliced Hot Peppers: If you love a little heat, sliced jalapeños or bird’s eye chilies are perfect. Add them based on your heat tolerance. For less heat, remove seeds before adding to your soup.

Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens the broth and brings all the flavors together.

Sauces: Hoisin sauce and sriracha are common pho additions. Stir some into your bowl, or place in a small dish for dipping your chicken or noodles separately.

How to Serve and Eat Pho

Eating chicken pho is an art form.  Here are steps to ensure you savor every bite.

Mix it up: Before you dive in, give the bowl a little mix to blend the flavors.

Add Condiments: Customize with sauces and toppings to your taste.

Sip the Broth: Don’t forget to savor the broth, which is often considered the heart of the pho. And it's totally okay to slurp the noodles; it enhances the flavors.

Dig In: What’s the traditional method for enjoying pho? Hold chopsticks in your dominant hand and a large spoon in the other hand. If that’s difficult for you or your family members, do what works for you. The whole point is to enjoy this delightfully flavorful comfort food, so if you need to involve a fork, go for it!

Pillsbury's Favorite Noodle Soup Recipes

After you’ve made our easy Chicken Pho recipe, try out some of our other noodle soup recipes.

Easy Chicken Noodle Soup for a 30-minute meal that’s perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner. Nothing beats the classic!

Vegetarian Noodle Soup puts frozen vegetables and pantry ingredients to work. Here’s a veggie-loaded soup that’s easy to make.

One-Pot Lasagna Soup uses lasagna noodles, canned Italian-style tomatoes, spicy Italian sausage, and ricotta, for a filling meal with only 15 minutes of prep! Great for if you want all of the delicious, layered flavors of lasagna without all the work.

And don’t forget to pair these comforting soups with Pillsbury crescents or French bread.