Quick & Easy Chicken Pho Soup Recipe | Weeknight Dinner

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready for a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug after a long day?

Nothing beats a steaming bowl of Quick & Easy Chicken Pho Soup when you want something soothing, flavorful, and still doable on a busy weeknight. Pho has deep roots in Vietnamese culinary tradition, known for its aromatic broth, delicate spices, and simple, honest ingredients. Traditionally, pho broth simmers for hours, filling the kitchen with irresistible aromas. But today, we’re honoring the spirit of tradition while adapting it for modern home cooks who want big flavor without spending all day at the stove.

This recipe is designed for real life: school nights, workdays, or anytime you crave comfort fast. By using smart shortcuts—like quality store-bought broth enhanced with classic pho spices—you can enjoy a deeply satisfying soup in under an hour. Tender chicken, silky rice noodles, and fresh herbs come together in a bowl that feels both nourishing and special. 🍜✨

Pho is more than just soup; it’s a ritual of slowing down, inhaling the fragrant steam, and customizing your bowl with lime, herbs, and spice just the way you like it. This quick version keeps that joy intact while making it approachable for everyone. Let’s bring a taste of tradition to your table tonight—simple, soulful, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients 🛒

For the Broth

• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 cups water
• 1 medium onion, halved
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
• 2 star anise pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cloves
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sugar (or rock sugar if available)

For the Soup

• 12 oz rice noodles
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thigh, thinly sliced
• Salt, to taste

Fresh Toppings (Customize Your Bowl!)

• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Thai basil leaves
• Bean sprouts
• Lime wedges
• Sliced green onions
• Thinly sliced jalapeño or chili
• Hoisin sauce or chili sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions 🥣

1. Char the aromatics (optional but recommended):
   In a dry pot or skillet, lightly char the onion and ginger until fragrant and slightly blackened. This adds depth to the broth.
2. Build the broth:
   Add chicken broth, water, charred onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon, and cloves to a large pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20–25 minutes.
3. Season:
   Stir in fish sauce and sugar. Taste and adjust with salt if needed. Strain out the solids for a clear, aromatic broth.
4. Prepare noodles:
   Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and divide into serving bowls.
5. Assemble:
   Top noodles with sliced chicken. Ladle hot broth over everything, letting the heat warm the chicken.
6. Finish & serve:
   Add fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and any sauces you love. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information 📊

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 30 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 45 minutes

⚡ Calories per serving: ~350
🍽️ Servings: 4

A balanced, nourishing meal with protein, comforting carbs, and fresh herbs—perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩‍🍳🍽️