Chicken pho with rice noodles

Chicken pho with rice noodles is a comforting Vietnamese dish featuring tender chicken in a fragrant ginger broth served over soft rice noodles. This easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying meal any time.

25 Nov 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
6 chicken breasts
12 cups chicken broth
1 tsp ginger
16 oz rice noodles
1 tsp coriander leaves
2 cups onion

Ginger-infused chicken pho with rice noodles is a comforting and aromatic Vietnamese dish that combines tender chicken, fragrant spices, and soft rice noodles in a savory broth. It's perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with a homemade, restaurant-quality meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot and cook until they are golden brown on both sides, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. Ensure that the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the pot and let them cool slightly. Then, shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks.

2. Prepare the Broth:
- In the same pot, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the finely grated or minced ginger. Stir well to ensure the ginger is thoroughly mixed.
- Let the broth simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Cook the Rice Noodles:
- While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking the noodles in hot water for about 5-10 minutes until they are tender, then draining them.
- Once the noodles are cooked and drained, set them aside.

4. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the simmering broth.
- Add the thinly sliced onion to the pot as well.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the onions are soft and the chicken is heated through.

5. Serve:
- Divide the cooked rice noodles evenly into serving bowls.
- Ladle the hot broth, chicken, and onions over the noodles.
- Garnish each bowl with chopped coriander leaves.

6. Optional Enhancements:
- You may add additional toppings or garnishes as desired, such as bean sprouts, lime wedges, Thai basil, sliced chili peppers, or hoisin sauce for extra flavor.

Ginger-infused chicken pho with rice noodles offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Serve it hot and enjoy the refreshing, fragrant taste of this Vietnamese classic.

Chicken pho with rice noodles FAQ:

How long does it take to cook chicken for pho?

Cooking the chicken breasts typically takes about 5-7 minutes per side over medium heat until they are golden brown and cooked through. After this, they should be shredded for the soup.

What is the best way to store leftover chicken pho?

Leftover chicken pho can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the broth separately and add the noodles and chicken just before serving.

Can I use a different type of noodle instead of rice noodles?

Yes, you can substitute rice noodles with other types such as egg noodles or udon noodles. Keep in mind that cooking times and textures may vary.

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked for the pho?

The chicken should be golden brown on the outside and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be considered fully cooked and safe to eat.

What can I substitute for ginger if I don’t have any?

If you don't have ginger, you can use ground ginger as a substitute, using about half the amount. Alternatively, fresh garlic can add flavor, though it will change the taste profile slightly.

Tips:

- Use fresh ingredients: Since this dish relies on a few key components, using fresh chicken, high-quality broth, and freshly grated ginger will significantly enhance the flavor of your pho.

- Cook noodles separately: To prevent the rice noodles from becoming mushy, cook them separately and add them to the broth just before serving.

- Skim the broth: Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface while simmering the broth to ensure a clear and clean-tasting soup.

- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the levels of ginger, coriander, and other spices to suit your personal taste preferences. Add a touch of fish sauce or lime juice for a more authentic flavor.

- Garnish generously: Top your pho with fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint, along with bean sprouts, sliced chili, and lime wedges to add extra layers of flavor and texture.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 300kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 1.44g
Sugar 3.03g
Fat 8g

Chicken pho with rice noodles