Steaming bowls of pho have long been a beloved symbol of Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage, weaving together fragrant herbs, savory broths, and tender noodles into a soul-soothing tapestry of flavor. Among the many variations of this iconic noodle soup, the hearty chicken and veggie pho stands out as a vibrant, nourishing choice that perfectly balances tradition with wholesome simplicity. Bursting with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, this version not only warms the body but also celebrates the colorful bounty of Vietnamese kitchens. Join us as we delve into the story, ingredients, and readiness of Chicken & Veggie Pho-Vietnam’s flavorful noodle soup that promises comfort and delight in every spoonful.
Hearty Chicken & Veggie Pho invites you on a culinary journey steeped in tradition and bursting with vibrant flavors. This beloved Vietnamese noodle soup is a comforting bowl that balances the depth of an aromatic broth with tender chicken and fresh vegetables, making every spoonful a soulful experience.originating from northern Vietnam, pho has evolved yet remains a dish that honors its roots through its carefully crafted broth, choice of chicken cuts, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs and spices.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 25 minutes
- Cooking: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 hearty bowls
Difficulty Level
Medium – Ideal for home cooks eager to embrace authentic Vietnamese flavors with manageable steps.
Ingredients
- For the broth:
- 2 lbs chicken bones (backs, necks, and wings for rich gelatin)
- 1 whole chicken breast (bone-in, skin-on for tenderness and flavor)
- 1 large yellow onion, halved
- 1 4-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced lengthwise
- 4 star anise pods
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 cloves
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tbsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 12 cups cold water
- Vegetables & Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded Napa cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms, stems removed
- 1 cup bean sprouts, rinsed and drained
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 bunch fresh Thai basil
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
- 2 red chilies, sliced (optional for heat)
- rice noodles (pho noodles), 12 oz dried or fresh
Instructions
- Char the aromatics: Place the onion halves and ginger slices directly over an open flame or under the broiler. Turn occasionally until deeply charred, about 8 minutes, which will enhance the broth’s smoky depth.
- Prepare the broth base: Rinse chicken bones under cold water. In a large stockpot, add bones, charred onion and ginger, and 12 cups cold water. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to simmer. Skim impurities that rise to the surface every 15 minutes for the first hour to keep the broth pristine.
- Add spices: Toast star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, coriander seeds, and black peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat for 2 minutes until fragrant. Place spices in a cheesecloth or spice infuser and add to the simmering broth along with sea salt and fish sauce.
- Cook low and slow: Simmer broth gently for 2 hours, maintaining a low simmer to extract maximum flavor without cloudiness. About 30 minutes before the broth finishes, poach the whole chicken breast directly in the broth until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes. Remove and let cool.
- Strain and clarify: Remove bones, aromatics, and spice sachet using a slotted spoon.strain broth through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth into a clean pot. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Prepare noodles and vegetables: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions until tender but firm. Rinse under cold water and drain well. Blanch shredded Napa cabbage and mushrooms briefly in boiling water for 1 minute to soften slightly but retain crunch.
- Shred chicken: Remove skin and bone from cooled chicken breast, then shred the meat finely for delicate texture and easy eating in the soup.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide noodles between six bowls.Top with shredded chicken, blanched vegetables, bean sprouts, and green onions.
- Serve with herbs and garnishes: Ladle hot broth over the bowls, allowing the heat to gently wilt fresh Thai basil and cilantro.Offer lime wedges and sliced chilies on the side for each guest to customize.
Tips for success
- Using chicken bones with cartilage boosts collagen, creating that coveted silky broth mouthfeel.
- Skimming the broth rigorously keeps it clear and visually inviting – an essential aspect of customary pho.
- If pressed for time, prepare broth a day ahead; flavors deepen overnight, and fat can be removed easily once chilled.
- Don’t skip charring the onion and ginger – it adds a signature smoky note that defines authentic pho broth.
- For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken broth with simmered mushrooms, kombu seaweed, and charred vegetables; adjust garnishes accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Hearty Chicken & Veggie Pho in large, deep bowls to appreciate the steaming broth and aromas. Accompany with freshly chopped herbs – Thai basil and cilantro – and a side plate of lime wedges, bean sprouts, and sliced red chilies for guests to tailor each bite. Pair with light, crisp Vietnamese iced tea or a cold lager to complement the fragrant warmth of the soup.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
For further inspiration on Vietnamese noodle soups, check out our Vietnamese Beef Pho Recipe. deepen your understanding of the cultural history behind pho at Smithsonian Magazine.
Q&A
Q&A: Hearty Chicken & Veggie Pho – Vietnam’s Flavorful Noodle Soup
Q1: What exactly is Pho, and why is it so beloved in Vietnamese cuisine?
A1: Pho (pronounced “fuh”) is Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup that blends rich, aromatic broth with tender meat, fresh herbs, and rice noodles. It’s beloved for its harmonious balance of flavors-savory, sweet, and fragrant-all simmered into one soul-warming bowl. Pho embodies the culinary spirit of Vietnam: simplicity elevated by fresh ingredients and meticulous technique.
Q2: How does Chicken & veggie Pho differ from the traditional beef version?
A2: While traditional Pho frequently enough stars beef, Chicken & veggie Pho offers a lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative. Instead of beef bones, chicken carcasses create a clear, subtly sweet broth, enhanced by a medley of vibrant vegetables.This variation appeals to those seeking a wholesome, heartier vegetable boost, making it both comforting and nourishing.
Q3: What vegetables are typically included in Hearty Chicken & Veggie Pho?
A3: Common veggies include carrots, daikon radish, onions, and sometimes mushrooms or bok choy. These veggies not only deepen the broth’s flavor but add body and texture. Fresh garnishes like bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, and lime wedges bring brightness and contrast, completing the sensory experience.
Q4: What makes the broth in Chicken & Veggie Pho so flavorful?
A4: The broth’s magic lies in slow simmering chicken bones and an aromatic blend of spices-star anise, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and coriander seeds. The vegetables infuse natural sweetness while the spices contribute warmth and complexity. The patient cooking process breaks down collagen, giving the broth a luscious, silky mouthfeel that’s simply irresistible.
Q5: Is Hearty Chicken & Veggie Pho easy to make at home?
A5: Absolutely! While it does require time to extract deep flavors from bones and spices, the steps are straightforward. Preparing the broth takes the majority of the time, but once that’s simmering, assembling the noodles, chicken, veggies, and garnishes is a fun, hands-on experience. Plus, homemade pho fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas-a reward in itself.
Q6: how can I customize my bowl of Chicken & Veggie Pho?
A6: Pho is incredibly versatile. Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding fresh chili slices or chili sauce. Swap veggies based on seasonality or preference-zucchini, snap peas, or baby corn work wonderfully. For an extra protein punch, poach egg whites or add tofu. Don’t forget the fresh herbs and lime juice-they bring life and vibrancy to every spoonful.
Q7: Why is Pho considered a comfort food beyond just its taste?
A7: Pho is more than a dish; it’s a cultural ritual.It’s often shared during family gatherings and early mornings as a pick-me-up. The warm broth soothes the soul, the fragrant herbs awaken the senses, and the communal act of assembling the bowl fosters connection. This hearty chicken and veggie version continues that legacy-offering nourishment for both body and spirit.
Whether you’re new to Vietnamese cuisine or a seasoned pho lover, the Hearty Chicken & Veggie Pho promises an inviting gateway into the rich flavors and comforting traditions of Vietnam. Get ready to slurp, savor, and smile!
The Way Forward
As the steam rises from a bowl of hearty chicken and veggie pho, it carries with it not just the enticing aromas of Vietnam’s vibrant spices and fresh herbs, but a story steeped in tradition and comfort. This flavorful noodle soup is more than just a dish-it’s a warm embrace from a culture that celebrates balance, nourishment, and the simple joy of gathering around a shared meal. Whether you’re savoring pho at a bustling street stall in Hanoi or crafting your own pot at home, each spoonful invites you to experience a timeless culinary journey that warms both body and soul. So next time you crave a taste of Vietnam, let this hearty chicken and veggie pho guide you to a world where flavor and history intertwine in every savory sip.
