Pho Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Soup)

  • Prep Time
    15 mins
  • Cook Time
    1,5 hrs

Pho Ga is a classic Vietnamese chicken noodle soup known for its aromatic, flavorful broth infused with charred ginger and onion, spices, and tender chicken. It’s served with rice noodles and fresh toppings for a vibrant, satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

For the Broth

Chicken thigh (bone-in, skin-on)

Water

Ginger, charred (about 0,5 cm or 0,25 in thick)

Yellow onion (charred)

Cinnamon stick

Star anise

Clove

Coriander seeds

Fennel seeds

Fish sauce

Sugar

Salt, to taste

For the Noodles and Toppings:

Dried flat rice noodles

Fresh herbs: cilantro, Thai basil, and mint

Shredded cooked chicken (from the broth)

Bean sprouts

Lime wedge

Thinly sliced green onions

Thinly sliced white onion

Fresh chili slices (optional)

Hoisin sauce and Sriracha (optional)

Nutrition

Per serving

  • Daily Value*
  • Calories
    380 kcal
  • Protein
    30 g
  • Carbohydrates
    40 g
  • Fat
    12 g
  • Sodium
    850 mg
  • Fiber
    2 g
  • Sugar
    2 g

    Instructions

    Step1

    Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ginger slice and onion, charring them until the surface is blackened and fragrant. Set aside.

    Step2

    In a separate dry skillet over medium heat, toast the cinnamon stick, star anise, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and cloves until they are aromatic (about 1–2 minutes). Stir occasionally to avoid burning.

    Step3

    In a medium-sized pot, combine the chicken, water, charred ginger, and onion. Add the toasted spices to a spice strainer or cheesecloth pouch and secure tightly. Place the strainer or pouch into the pot with the chicken and aromatics.

    Step4

    Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 1 hour. During this time, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface to ensure a clear broth.

    Step5

    After simmering, remove the chicken. Shred the meat and discard the skin and bones. Strain the broth to remove solids, then season with fish sauce, sugar, and salt to taste.

    Step6

    Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Place cooked noodles into a bowl. Add shredded chicken on top. Pour the hot broth over the noodles and chicken.

    Step7

    Add fresh herbs, bean sprouts, green and white onions, and chili slices. Serve with lime wedges and condiments like hoisin sauce or Sriracha on the side.

    Tips and Substitutions

    • Use a whole chicken or swap for beef slices (Pho Bo) for variety.
    • The broth can be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days.
    • Use store-bought chicken stock and enhance with spices and aromatics for a faster preparation.

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