Pho Ga is a traditional Vietnamese chicken noodle soup known for its aromatic broth and tender chicken pieces. This comforting dish combines rice noodles with a flavorful broth infused with spices, herbs, and fresh vegetables, making it a popular choice for both breakfast and dinner in Vietnam.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 1 (8 ounce) package baby bella mushrooms, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups water
• 1 (6.75 ounce) package rice stick noodles (such as Maifun)
• 8 teaspoons chicken bouillon
• 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 1 lime, sliced into wedges
• Sriracha hot sauce, to taste

Directions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Sauté chopped yellow onion, baby bella mushrooms, and minced garlic until tender, approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Add 8 cups of water, rice stick noodles, and chicken bouillon to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
3. Incorporate shredded cooked chicken, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro into the soup. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Serve the soup hot, topping each bowl with bean sprouts, a squeeze of lime juice, and a dash of Sriracha hot sauce as desired.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 231 kcal
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 28mg
• Sodium: 149mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Vitamin C: 10mg
• Calcium: 40mg
• Iron: 1mg
• Potassium: 304mg

The History of Pho Ga

Pho has a long and fascinating history, with roots that date back to the early 20th century. While Pho Bo (beef pho) is believed to have originated from French colonial influence, Pho Ga was developed later as a more affordable and accessible version, especially for families who didn’t eat beef as frequently. During times of economic hardship, chicken was often more readily available than beef, and thus, Pho Ga became a common alternative. Over time, it grew in popularity, becoming a beloved dish across Vietnam. Today, Pho Ga can be found everywhere, from high-end restaurants to humble street vendors. Each region in Vietnam has its own variations, with northern Pho Ga being simpler and more traditional, while southern versions often include additional garnishes and seasonings.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Light yet flavorful broth: The broth is clear but deeply aromatic, thanks to the blend of herbs and spices used during simmering.
• Easy to customize: You can add extra herbs, chili, lime, or sauces to match your taste preferences.
• Nutritious and healthy: Pho Ga is packed with lean protein, essential vitamins, and minerals, making it a great meal choice for overall well-being.
• Comforting and warming: This dish is perfect for cold days or when you need a comforting meal.

The Health Benefits of Pho Ga

Pho Ga is more than just a delicious dish; it also offers several health benefits. The combination of nutrient-rich ingredients makes it a well-balanced meal that supports overall health.

• High in protein: The chicken in Pho Ga provides a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Packed with essential vitamins and minerals: The broth, made with bones and spices, contains important nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and collagen, which are great for joint and bone health.
• Aids digestion: Ginger and star anise, both commonly used in the broth, are known for their digestive benefits. They help soothe the stomach and support gut health.
• Boosts immunity: The combination of garlic, onions, and fresh herbs provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help strengthen the immune system.
• Low in calories but filling: Thanks to its balance of protein, broth, and noodles, Pho Ga is satisfying while still being relatively low in calories, making it a great meal for those watching their weight.

Best Occasions to Serve Pho Ga

Pho Ga is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are some great occasions for serving this comforting soup:

• Breakfast: In Vietnam, Pho Ga is often eaten in the morning as a nourishing start to the day.
• Cold or rainy days: A hot bowl of Pho Ga is the perfect way to warm up and feel cozy.
• When feeling under the weather: The soothing broth and nutrient-rich ingredients make it a go-to meal when recovering from illness.
• Casual family dinners: This dish is easy to prepare and loved by both kids and adults, making it an ideal family meal.
• Dinner parties: If you’re hosting a dinner and want to impress your guests with an authentic Vietnamese dish, Pho Ga is a fantastic choice.

Tips for Making the Best Pho Ga

1. Use high-quality chicken: The better the chicken, the richer the broth will be. Opt for free-range or organic chicken for the best flavor.
2. Roast your aromatics: Lightly charring the onions and ginger before adding them to the broth enhances their depth of flavor.
3. Skim the broth regularly: Removing excess fat and impurities while simmering ensures a clear, clean-tasting broth.
4. Cook the noodles separately: Cooking the noodles separately prevents them from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy.
5. Serve with fresh herbs and lime: Adding fresh cilantro, Thai basil, and a squeeze of lime just before serving elevates the flavors of the dish.

Popular Variations of Pho Ga

While the traditional recipe is beloved, there are several variations you can try:

• Spicy Pho Ga: Add extra chili peppers or chili paste to the broth for a spicy kick.
• Pho Ga with Egg: Some versions include a poached or soft-boiled egg for added richness.
• Pho Ga with Mushrooms: A vegetarian-friendly version where mushrooms replace chicken as the main ingredient.
• Northern vs. Southern Pho Ga: Northern-style Pho Ga is simpler with fewer garnishes, while the southern version often includes additional toppings like bean sprouts and hoisin sauce.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Pho Ga

To enhance the meal, you can serve Pho Ga with a variety of side dishes:

• Vietnamese Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, these rolls pair beautifully with the soup.
• Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch complements the broth’s rich flavors.
• Crispy Fried Shallots: Sprinkle some on top of the soup for added texture and depth.
• Vietnamese Iced Coffee: The sweet and strong coffee balances the lightness of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover broth and chicken separately from the noodles to prevent them from getting soggy. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The broth can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in an airtight container and thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the broth on the stove and add fresh noodles before serving. Avoid boiling too much to maintain the delicate flavors.

Conclusion

Pho Ga is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. From its fragrant broth to its tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles, this dish is both comforting and nourishing. Whether you’re new to Vietnamese cooking or a longtime fan, Pho Ga is a must-try recipe that brings warmth and flavor to any table.