Name: Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken broth; 1-inch piece ginger, sliced; 1 garlic clove, smashed; 1 star anise (optional); 1 tbsp fish sauce; 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or sliced); 4 oz rice noodles; Bean sprouts; Basil leaves; Lime wedges; Chili slices; Cilantro sprigs

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If you are craving the deep, comforting flavors of a traditional Vietnamese chicken pho but don’t have hours to spend simmering broth, this Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe has got you covered. Ready in under 30 minutes, this speedy but satisfying version captures all the warmth of the classic dish with tender chicken, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs that make each spoonful a hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want to transport your taste buds straight to Vietnam without stepping out of your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl with two clear layers: the bottom layer is white rice noodles that have a smooth and slightly glossy texture, and the top layer is light pink shredded chicken with a soft, fibrous look. Around the main bowl, there are smaller white bowls containing fresh green herbs, sliced green onions with a lime wedge, and additional white rice noodles on a white marbled surface. The colors are soft and natural with a clean, fresh appearance. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe is all about using simple, accessible ingredients that pack maximum flavor and freshness. Each element plays an important role — the broth forms the soul of the dish, the rice noodles bring the soft texture we love, while fresh herbs and spices layer in complexity and brightness.

Chicken broth (4 cups): The flavorful foundation that infuses the soup with deep, savory notes — opt for a good-quality store-bought or homemade broth.
Cooked chicken (1 cup, shredded or sliced): Using pre-cooked chicken like rotisserie makes this recipe ridiculously quick without sacrificing taste.
Fish sauce (1 tbsp): Adds that quintessential umami and tang that defines Vietnamese pho.
Ginger (1-inch piece, sliced): Provides a warm spice that lifts the broth beautifully.
Garlic (1 clove, smashed): Brings savory depth and aroma.
Star anise (1 whole, optional): A classic pho spice that adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
Rice noodles (4 oz): Soft and tender noodles are essential in creating that comforting mouthfeel pho is known for.
Bean sprouts, basil, lime, chili, cilantro: Fresh garnishes that add brightness, texture, and a pop of vibrant color.

How to Make Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by simmering your chicken broth along with sliced ginger, smashed garlic, fish sauce, and the optional star anise for about 10 minutes. This short simmer allows the aromatics to infuse the broth with rich, layered flavors without a long wait.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles and Heat the Chicken

Add the rice noodles and shredded chicken directly into the simmering broth. Let them cook together gently for 3 to 4 minutes. This not only softens the noodles perfectly but also warms the chicken just right, creating a comforting bowl.

Step 3: Remove Aromatics and Serve

Before serving, fish out the ginger, garlic, and star anise so every spoonful is smooth and pleasant to eat. Ladle the hot broth, noodles, and chicken into bowls, leaving space for your fresh garnishes to shine.

How to Serve Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with clear broth and long, light yellow noodles forming the base layer. Thin slices of pale pink meat rest on top of the noodles, with green herbs like cilantro and jalapeño slices scattered among them. There are thin slices of radish adding a faint pink color on one side, and a few fresh lime wedges placed beside the bowl. A pair of wooden chopsticks and a silver spoon are positioned inside the bowl, with a woman's hand reaching in from the right side. The overall look is fresh and colorful with a clear view of all layers. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes are what take this Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe to the next level. Toss in crisp bean sprouts for crunch, bright basil leaves for an herbaceous kick, zesty lime wedges to squeeze over the top, spicy sliced chili for heat, and fragrant cilantro to tie it all together. These finishing touches make the dish come alive.

Side Dishes

This soup stands beautifully on its own but pairing it with simple Vietnamese-style sides like fresh spring rolls or a light cucumber salad can make your meal feel extra special. The freshness and textures complement each other perfectly, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve this pho in large clear bowls so the colorful garnishes peek through the aromatic broth. Offering small bowls with extra lime wedges, herbs, and hoisin or sriracha sauces on the side invites guests to customize their bowls exactly how they like it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover broth and chicken separately from the noodles to prevent them from getting soggy. Keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days so you can enjoy a nearly instant meal again very soon.

Freezing

You can freeze the broth and chicken together for up to 2 months. Just thaw fully in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently. It’s handy to have this handy base for future bowls of Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe.

Reheating

When ready to eat, reheat the broth mixture on the stovetop until steaming. Add fresh rice noodles and garnishes at serving time for the best texture and flavor — noodles get mushy if reheated for too long.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer, add thinly sliced raw chicken breast or thighs directly into the simmering broth with the noodles. It will cook quickly and absorb all those fragrant flavors.

Is star anise necessary in this recipe?

Star anise adds authenticity and a subtle sweetness, but it’s optional. The pho still tastes delicious without it, making the recipe flexible for your pantry staples.

What type of rice noodles work best?

Look for medium-width dried rice noodles labeled for pho or vermicelli. They rehydrate quickly and have the ideal texture for this soup.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. Use tofu or mushrooms as your protein for a satisfying alternative.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover pho?

Reheat the broth gently on the stove until hot but not boiling. Add fresh noodles and garnishes right before serving to keep textures fresh and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

This Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe is the perfect answer to those moments when you want rich, authentic pho flavors without waiting hours. It’s a bowl full of comfort, freshness, and warmth that fits effortlessly into busy lives. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly you can bring this classic Vietnamese delight to your table, and how often it will become a favorite go-to meal!

Almost Instant Chicken Pho Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need