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20 Minute Chicken Pho

20 Minute Chicken Pho
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This 20 Minute Chicken Pho recipe offers a quick, flavorful, and comforting take on the classic Vietnamese soup. Featuring tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and fresh vegetables in a richly spiced broth, it’s perfect for busy nights or anytime you crave a wholesome, satisfying meal without long preparation.

Ingredients

Protein

  • Chicken breast or thighs (thinly sliced) – 8 oz (about 225g)

Noodles

  • Rice noodles – 6 oz (about 170g)

Broth & Aromatics

  • Chicken broth – 6 cups (1.4 liters)
  • Fresh ginger (sliced) – 2-inch piece
  • Garlic cloves (whole) – 3
  • Star anise – 2 pods
  • Cloves – 3 whole
  • Fish sauce – 2 tablespoons

Fresh Herbs & Toppings

  • Cilantro (fresh) – 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Basil leaves (fresh) – 1/4 cup
  • Mint leaves (fresh) – 1/4 cup
  • Lime wedges – 4
  • Bean sprouts – 1 cup
  • Chili peppers or Sriracha (optional) – to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Broth: Start by bringing the chicken broth to a gentle boil in a large pot. Add the sliced ginger, whole garlic cloves, star anise, and cloves. Let these aromatics steep in the hot broth for 10 minutes to develop a rich, fragrant base.
  2. Cook the Chicken: While the broth simmers, thinly slice your chicken breasts or thighs. Add the chicken pieces directly into the simmering broth and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  3. Prepare the Noodles: In a separate pot or bowl, soak or cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions until they’re just tender. Drain and set aside to avoid overcooking.
  4. Assemble Your Pho Bowls: Divide the cooked noodles evenly into serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth and cooked chicken over the noodles, ensuring some aromatic spices come along for flavor.
  5. Add Fresh Toppings: Top your pho with fresh cilantro, basil, mint, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili slices or Sriracha if desired. Serve immediately while steaming hot for the best experience.

Notes

  • Use thinly sliced chicken to ensure it cooks quickly and remains tender in the broth.
  • Lightly toast star anise and cloves before boiling to intensify their flavor.
  • Soak noodles just until tender to avoid mushy texture once added to hot broth.
  • Use fresh herbs generously to enhance brightness and authenticity.
  • Add fish sauce at the end of cooking and adjust to taste for balanced saltiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Pho, Vietnamese Soup, Quick Pho Recipe, 20 Minute Pho, Chicken Noodle Soup, Gluten Free Soup

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/20-minute-chicken-pho/