Chicken pho (phở gà) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Vietnam Servings: Serves 4
Vietnam Servings: Serves 4Chicken Pho, known as Phở Gà in Vietnam, is a heartwarming noodle soup that has captured the palates of many. Originating from the northern part of Vietnam, this variant of pho is a lighter, yet equally delicious, counterpart to its more famous sibling, the beef pho (phở bò). It boasts a delicate and aromatic broth that balances the flavors of tender chicken, fragrant spices such as star anise and cinnamon, and fresh herbs. It’s traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast dish but has become a versatile comfort food at any time of day.
Ingredients
- chicken thighs – 1 lb / 450 g
- chicken broth – 8 cups / 1.9 L
- onion – 1 large, halved
- ginger – 3 inch piece, sliced
- star anise – 2 pieces
- cinnamon stick – 1 stick
- fish sauce – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
- white pepper – 1/2 tsp / 2 g
- rice noodles – 8 oz / 225 g
- spring onions – 2, chopped
- fresh cilantro – 1/2 cup / 8 g, chopped
- bean sprouts – 1 cup / 100 g
- lime – 1, cut into wedges
- fresh basil – 1/4 cup / 10 g
- chili peppers – 2, sliced
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken thighs, chicken broth, onion halves, sliced ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer for 20 minutes. Skim any foam or fat that rises to the surface.
- Remove the chicken and set aside. Strain the broth, discarding solids, and return it to the pot.
- Season the broth with fish sauce, salt, and white pepper.
- Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Shred the chicken meat and divide it among the serving bowls. Add cooked noodles as well.
- Pour the hot broth over the chicken and noodles in each bowl.
- Garnish with chopped spring onions, cilantro, bean sprouts, basil, lime wedges, and chili peppers.
Substitutions
- chicken thighs -> chicken breast
- rice noodles -> glass noodles
- fish sauce -> soy sauce
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Use homemade chicken broth for deeper flavor.
- Char the onion and ginger before adding to the broth for a smoky depth.
- Add a dash of sugar to balance and enhance flavors.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
