Name: Chicken Pho Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1.5 cups celery; 0.5 cups onion; 2 teaspoons fresh garlic; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger; 1.5 cups carrots; 6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth; 3 tablespoons fish sauce; 2 stalks lemongrass; 6 pods star anise; 1 black peppercorns; 1 pound chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice; 0.5 lime; 1 teaspoon sriracha; mint (for garnish); Thai basil (for garnish); cilantro (for garnish); 5 ounces rice noodles

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When the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Chicken Pho Recipe to bring comfort and joy. I remember the first time I had this delightful Vietnamese soup; it was during a family gathering, sitting around a large table filled with laughter and love. The aroma wafting from the kitchen was intoxicating, drawing everyone into the dining room with eager anticipation. Each slurp of the rich broth, with the fresh herbs and tender chicken, felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. Now, I love sharing the experience of making Chicken Pho Recipe with my family, bringing us all together around the kitchen. It’s not just about the meal; it’s about the memories we create while cooking together. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a taste of home, this Chicken Pho Recipe is sure to warm your heart and soul!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
55 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Oven, Cutting Board, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Saucepan

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pho Recipe

It’s Comforting

The first reason I adore this Chicken Pho Recipe is its incredible comforting nature. When you take a sip of the warm broth, you can’t help but feel a sense of peace wash over you. It’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cold nights or when you’re feeling a little under the weather. The combination of spices and herbs creates a flavor that soothes the soul.

Rich in Flavor

This dish is bursting with flavor! From the aromatic star anise to the earthy tones of the chicken broth, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of tastes. You can customize it to your liking by adding more chili or fresh herbs, letting you create a personalized experience every time.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

Even if you’re short on time, this Chicken Pho Recipe can be prepared relatively quickly. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. The beauty is in the simplicity of the ingredients, allowing you to whip it up on a busy weeknight without sacrificing flavor.

Healthy Ingredients

Using healthy ingredients is another reason this recipe stands out. The fresh vegetables like celery and carrots, along with the lean chicken, provide a nutritious meal that satisfies without weighing you down. Plus, the addition of fresh herbs like mint and cilantro adds a burst of freshness that enhances both flavor and health benefits.

Great for Sharing

This Chicken Pho Recipe is perfect for gatherings. When serving, it encourages everyone to customize their bowls with fresh herbs and spices, making it an interactive and fun dining experience. There’s something special about sharing a meal that brings people together, and this soup facilitates just that.

Versatile

Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences or incorporate different proteins if you’d like. It’s not just limited to chicken; feel free to experiment with tofu or other proteins to make it your own. With a little creativity, the Chicken Pho Recipe can fit any occasion!

Ingredients for Chicken Pho Recipe

To create a remarkable Chicken Pho Recipe, the selection of ingredients is crucial. Each element plays a significant role in the final flavor profile. Fresh vegetables provide essential nutrients, while aromatic spices infuse depth and warmth. This blend of flavors is what makes the dish truly special.

1 tablespoon olive oil – This is used to sauté the vegetables, adding richness to the broth.
1 1/2 cups celery, sliced – Provides a crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
1/2 cup onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced – Adds warmth and a slight zing.
1 1/2 cups carrots, sliced – Offers a touch of sweetness and color.
6 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth – The base of the soup that carries all the flavors.
3 tablespoons fish sauce – Contributes saltiness and umami depth.
2 stalks lemongrass, each cut into three – Provides a citrusy aroma that enhances the dish.
6 star anise pods – Adds a sweet and licorice-like flavor profile.
Black peppercorns – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of spice.
1 pound chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat – The main protein, providing richness to the broth.
1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice – Infuses the chicken with aromatic flavors.
Juice of half a large lime – Brings brightness and balances the dish.
1 teaspoon sriracha or to taste – Adds heat and depth to the soup.
Finely sliced mint for garnish – Provides a fresh and fragrant finish.
Finely sliced Thai basil for garnish – Adds a unique flavor that is essential in pho.
Cilantro for garnish – Complements the dish beautifully with its freshness.
5 ounces rice noodles – The perfect vehicle for soaking up the flavorful broth.

Step by Step Guide for Chicken Pho Recipe

Making Chicken Pho Recipe is a delightful journey that will fill your kitchen with amazing aromas. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of soup that warms your heart. Let’s dive into the process!

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. As the oil shimmers, it’s ready for the next ingredients. You’ll want to cook the celery and onions until softened, which will take about three minutes. Keep an eye on them; the onions should turn translucent and sweeten up nicely.
Next, add in the garlic and ginger to the pot. You’ll want to cook these until fragrant, which should take about a minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. Make sure not to burn them; they should be golden and aromatic.
Then, toss in the carrots and cook for another two minutes. They should start to soften but retain a little crunch. The colors will become vibrant, making your dish visually appealing from the get-go.
Now, it’s time to add everything else except for the star anise and black peppercorns. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the fish sauce, lemongrass, and Chinese five-spice. These ingredients will create the delicious base of your broth, so mix well to combine.
For the star anise and black peppercorns, place the star anise pods in one tea ball and the black peppercorns in another. Add both to the pot. This method infuses the flavors without leaving any gritty bits in your soup.
Next, pat the chicken thighs dry, then rub them thoroughly with the Chinese five-spice. Adding the chicken at this stage will allow it to absorb all the delicious flavors while cooking in the broth.
Bring the pot to a boil on high heat for about three minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30 to 45 minutes. If time allows, aim for 45 minutes; this will deepen the flavors even more.
Meanwhile, prepare the rice noodles according to the package directions. This step is crucial because the noodles should be ready just as your soup is done, preventing any sogginess.
Once the chicken is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate. Stir in the lime juice and sriracha into the broth. The acidity from the lime will brighten your soup, making it even more delicious.
Shred the chicken with two forks until it’s in bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot along with the cooked rice noodles. Stir gently to combine everything together, allowing the noodles to soak up the flavors of the broth.
Finally, divide the soup between four bowls. Garnish with the fresh herbs: mint, Thai basil, and cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Pho Recipe while it’s hot, relishing every flavorful spoonful!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and spices to get the best flavor. Dried herbs won’t give you the same aromatic experience.
Control the Heat: Adjust the sriracha according to your spice preference. Start with a small amount, and you can always add more later.
Let It Simmer: The longer you let the broth simmer, the richer the flavor will be. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential!
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the herbs for garnishing. They add a lot of freshness and contrast to the warm broth.

Tips for Success

Getting the perfect Chicken Pho Recipe takes a few tips and tricks. Here are some to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time!

Storage: Store any leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together overnight!
Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the soup without the noodles. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to containers.
Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh lime wedges and additional herbs to allow guests to customize their bowls.
Experiment: Feel free to add different vegetables or proteins to the soup. Mushrooms, bok choy, or tofu can be delicious additions!
Cooking Method: If you have an Instant Pot, you can also make this recipe using that for a quicker version!
Make Ahead: Prepare the broth in advance, then just add the noodles and chicken when you’re ready to serve.

Serving This Chicken Pho Recipe

Serving your Chicken Pho Recipe can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dish:

Personalize Each Bowl: Set up a garnishing station with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili sauce, allowing everyone to customize their own bowl.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. It’s versatile enough for any occasion!
Pair with Sides: Consider serving alongside spring rolls or a light salad to complement the rich flavors of the pho.
Seasonal Variations: In colder months, serve it steaming hot, while in warmer months, you can serve a chilled version for a refreshing twist.
Leftover Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors develop even more!
Freezing Tips: If you decide to freeze it, do so without the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy upon reheating.

FAQ

The beauty of Chicken Pho Recipe lies in its rich, aromatic broth and the delicious combination of spices and fresh herbs. Each ingredient complements the others, creating a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and togetherness, often enjoyed in the company of family and friends.

Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of Chicken Pho Recipe, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use tofu or additional vegetables like mushrooms to provide protein. The spices and aromatics will still ensure a deliciously flavorful dish, making it a perfect option for vegetarian diets.

You can easily control the spice level in Chicken Pho Recipe by adjusting the amount of sriracha you add. Start with a small amount and taste the broth as you go. You can also offer sliced jalapeños or other hot peppers on the side, allowing everyone to customize their own bowl to their preferred heat level.

For the best flavor, garnish your Chicken Pho Recipe with fresh herbs such as mint, Thai basil, and cilantro. These herbs not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also add refreshing notes that balance the rich broth, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

Conclusion

The Chicken Pho Recipe is truly a standout dish that brings comfort and joy to every meal. Its blend of flavors and aromas creates a rich, satisfying experience that you and your loved ones will cherish. I encourage you to try making this dish at home; it’s not just a recipe but an opportunity to create wonderful memories around the dining table.