Crockpot Pho Ga (chicken pho)

Name: Crockpot Pho Ga (chicken pho)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds); 1 onion, halved; 1 piece of ginger (2 inches), sliced; 6 cups of chicken broth; 2 star anise; 1 cinnamon stick; 3 cloves; 1 tablespoon of fish sauce; Salt to taste; Rice noodles; Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint); Lime wedges; Sliced jalapeños; Bean sprouts

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Crockpot Pho Ga is a comforting and aromatic chicken soup that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Let the flavors blend beautifully while you go about your day.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-23T01:51:42.271Z

Crockpot Pho Ga is not just a meal; it's an experience. As the broth simmers for hours, your home fills with the enticing aroma of spices and fresh herbs, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This easy recipe allows you to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dish without the need for complicated techniques. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, you'll love how simple it is to create a flavorful bowl of pho.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices create a fragrant broth that warms the soul
Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time
Healthy and comforting, perfect for any time of year

      

The Magic of Pho

Pho, a traditional Vietnamese soup, is known for its aromatic broth and a delightful blend of spices. The key to a perfect Pho Ga lies in the broth, which is simmered with a combination of chicken, herbs, and spices. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and comforting dish. Your kitchen will be filled with a warm, inviting aroma that beckons everyone to the table, making it an ideal meal for gatherings or cozy nights in.

In this recipe, we utilize a crockpot to simplify the cooking process. By allowing the ingredients to simmer slowly, you can go about your day while the magic happens. The result is a deeply flavorful broth that serves as the foundation for the entire dish. Plus, the use of a whole chicken not only enhances the flavor but also provides tender, juicy meat that elevates your Pho Ga to the next level.

Health Benefits of Pho

Crockpot Pho Ga is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. The broth is rich in collagen from the chicken, which supports joint health and skin elasticity. Moreover, the addition of fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint not only adds flavor but also provides antioxidants and vitamins that contribute to your overall well-being.

Rice noodles, a staple in Pho, are gluten-free and serve as a great source of carbohydrates. This makes Pho Ga a balanced meal that can be enjoyed by those following various dietary preferences. Whether you're seeking comfort food or a nourishing dish, this chicken pho checks all the boxes.

Customizing Your Pho

One of the best aspects of preparing Pho Ga is the opportunity to customize it to your liking. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your palate—add more chili for heat or extra herbs for freshness. You can also experiment with different toppings; try including sautéed mushrooms, bok choy, or even tofu for added texture and flavor.

Additionally, the side accompaniments like lime wedges, jalapeños, and bean sprouts allow each person to tailor their bowl to their taste. This interactive dining experience not only makes for a fun meal but also caters to diverse preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their perfect bowl of Pho.

Ingredients

For the Broth

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
1 onion, halved
1 piece of ginger (2 inches), sliced
6 cups of chicken broth
2 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
3 cloves
1 tablespoon of fish sauce
Salt to taste

For Serving

Rice noodles
Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, mint)
Lime wedges
Sliced jalapeños
Bean sprouts

Gather all your ingredients before you start for a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

Place the whole chicken, onion, ginger, chicken broth, star anise, cinnamon stick, and cloves into the crockpot. Add fish sauce and salt. Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours.

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked and tender, remove it from the broth. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Strain the Broth

Strain the broth to remove the solids, returning the liquid to the crockpot. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Cook the Noodles

Prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Divide the noodles into bowls.

Assemble the Pho

Pour the hot broth over the noodles, then top with shredded chicken and fresh herbs. Serve with lime wedges, jalapeños, and bean sprouts on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Crockpot Pho Ga with friends or family!

Tips for the Perfect Broth

To achieve the most flavorful broth, it's important to use high-quality chicken and fresh spices. Avoid pre-ground spices when possible, as whole spices tend to offer a more robust flavor. You can lightly toast them in a dry pan before adding them to the crockpot to intensify their aroma and taste.

For an even deeper flavor, consider adding a dash of soy sauce or hoisin sauce to the broth. This can enhance the umami profile and create a more complex taste, making your Pho Ga truly exceptional.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store the broth and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld even after cooking, making the leftovers just as delicious, if not better.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. Avoid boiling the broth to prevent it from losing its rich flavor. You can also prepare fresh noodles to accompany the reheated broth for a delightful meal that feels freshly made.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing your Crockpot Pho Ga with a side of spring rolls or a fresh salad. These light dishes complement the hearty soup and add a refreshing element to the meal.

Hosting a Pho night? Set up a DIY Pho bar where guests can customize their bowls with different herbs and spices. This makes for an interactive and enjoyable dining experience that everyone will remember!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the broth.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the broth?

Yes, the broth can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

→ What if I don't have all the spices?

You can substitute with a store-bought pho spice mix if you don't have all the individual spices.