If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the soothing warmth and incredible depth of flavor found in traditional Vietnamese pho, but without the hours of standing at the stove, then this Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe is exactly what you need. This beloved dish combines tender chicken, fragrant spices, and delicate rice noodles, all slowly simmered to perfection in your crockpot. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a bowl of comforting, aromatic pho that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly days or any time you crave a soul-soothing meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, simple ingredients is key to making your Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe truly shine. Each ingredient plays an important role in balancing the aromatic broth, tender chicken, and refreshing garnishes that together create an unforgettable taste experience.
- 1 1/2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These bring rich flavor to the broth as they slowly cook, making the soup hearty and savory.
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The foundation of your soup, providing a clean, comforting base without overpowering saltiness.
- 1 small onion (halved): Charred to bring out sweetness and add a smoky depth to the broth.
- 1 (3-inch) piece fresh ginger (halved lengthwise): Adds warmth and a gentle zing that lifts the broth beautifully.
- 2 star anise pods: Essential for that iconic pho aroma and subtle licorice notes.
- 1 cinnamon stick: Adds a cozy spice that rounds out the broth’s complex flavor profile.
- 4 whole cloves: Tiny but mighty, these add a fragrant punch that awakens your taste buds.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce: Brings authentic umami depth and a savory kick.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances out the savory and spicy notes with just a touch of sweetness.
- Salt to taste: Used sparingly to enhance, never overpower, the broth’s delicate flavors.
- 8 ounces rice noodles (banh pho or flat rice noodles): Classic, silky noodles that soak up the broth perfectly.
- 1 cup bean sprouts: Adds a crunchy freshness and lightness to your bowl.
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Brings a bright, herbal finish.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Offers a mild onion bite for extra zest.
- 1 lime (cut into wedges): A squeeze of lime brightens each spoonful and balances the richness.
- Fresh Thai basil leaves: Infuses a sweet, peppery aroma unique to pho.
- Sliced jalapeños (optional): For those who like a little heat with their comfort soup.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe
Step 1: Char the Onion and Ginger
Start by placing the halved onion and ginger under your broiler for 5–7 minutes, turning once until they’re perfectly charred. This step unlocks those deep, smoky flavors that form the backbone of an authentic pho broth, giving it that signature smokiness and subtle sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer the charred onion and ginger to your crockpot, then add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, fish sauce, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Don’t forget that fish sauce—it’s the secret sauce here that elevates the broth with the perfect umami balance.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking allows all those spices and aromatics to mingle and permeate the chicken and broth deeply, creating a rich, comforting flavor that you’ll want to savor with every spoonful.
Step 4: Prepare the Broth and Chicken
Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the chicken and strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the solids. Shred the chicken, removing the skin and bones, then return the meat to the broth so every bite is tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Cook the Rice Noodles
Cook your rice noodles following the package directions, then rinse with cool water to halt cooking and prevent stickiness. This step keeps the noodles perfectly tender, ready to soak up your delicious broth without turning mushy.
Step 6: Assemble the Pho Bowls
Divide the noodles among bowls, ladle the hot broth and chicken over the top, and get ready to adorn your soup with fresh garnishes. This is where your pho truly comes to life.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnishes make all the difference in a bowl of pho. Add a handful of crunchy bean sprouts, bright green chopped cilantro and green onions, a wedge of lime for that citrus pop, fresh Thai basil leaves for an aromatic kick, and sliced jalapeños if you love a little heat. These toppings add layers of freshness and texture that perfectly complement the rich broth and tender chicken.
Side Dishes
This Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe shines as a satisfying main course, but pairing it with a side of crispy spring rolls or a simple cucumber salad can add delightful contrasts in flavor and crunch. These sides keep the meal light yet indulgently Vietnamese and create a balanced dining experience that will impress family and friends alike.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your pho in rustic stone bowls that keep the broth piping hot longer, or set up a pho bar so everyone can customize their bowl with garnishes just the way they like. You could also garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant presentation that’s sure to wow your guests visually as well as on the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your crockpot chicken pho leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles separate from the broth to prevent them from absorbing too much liquid and becoming overly soft. This way, your next meal tastes just as fresh and delicious as the first.
Freezing
If you want to keep this comforting dish on hand for longer, freeze the broth and shredded chicken (without noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove to retain maximum flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat the broth and chicken over medium heat until just steaming—avoid boiling to preserve delicate flavors. Warm the noodles separately in hot water, then combine everything in a bowl and add fresh garnishes for that essential pho freshness when serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer, but chicken thighs offer more flavor and a juicier texture thanks to their higher fat content. If using breasts, be mindful not to overcook, as they can dry out more easily.
Do I have to char the onion and ginger before adding them to the crockpot?
Charing the onion and ginger adds valuable smoky sweetness to the broth, which is a hallmark of traditional pho. While you can skip this step in a pinch, taking the time to broil them really makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
What type of rice noodles is best for pho?
Banh pho, a flat rice noodle, is the classic choice for pho. You want noodles that are thin to medium thickness to complement the broth without overpowering the bowl. Avoid overly thick noodles which can be too heavy for the delicate soup.
Can I make this Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe vegetarian?
While this recipe relies on chicken for its rich base, a vegetarian version can be made by substituting vegetable broth, omitting the chicken, and using tofu or mushrooms for protein. Adjust the seasonings accordingly, especially the fish sauce, which can be replaced with soy sauce or a vegetarian umami enhancer.
How spicy is this recipe?
The base Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe is mild and aromatic, perfect for any palate. You can customize the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or chili sauce at serving, so everyone can enjoy their perfect bowl of soup.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely magical about a bowl of pho that warms both the soul and the spirit, and this Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe brings that magic right into your home with minimal effort. Whether you’re new to pho or a longtime fan, this slow cooker version makes it easy to enjoy authentic flavors and cozy comfort. So go on—treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl of this fragrant, flavorful soup that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your meal rotation.
Print
Crockpot Chicken Pho Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Vietnamese
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot Chicken Pho is a comforting Vietnamese noodle soup made with tender slow-cooked chicken thighs simmered in a fragrant broth infused with star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and charred onion and ginger. Served with rice noodles and fresh herbs, this easy slow cooker recipe delivers authentic flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Broth and Chicken
- 1 1/2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 small onion, halved
- 1 (3-inch) piece fresh ginger, halved lengthwise
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt to taste
Noodles and Garnishes
- 8 ounces rice noodles (banh pho or flat rice noodles)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh Thai basil leaves
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
- Char the aromatics: Place the halved onion and ginger under the broiler for 5–7 minutes, turning once, until nicely charred. This step adds a deep smoky flavor to the broth.
- Cook in the crockpot: Add the charred onion and ginger to the crockpot along with the chicken thighs, chicken broth, star anise pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, fish sauce, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender and the broth is flavorful.
- Prepare the broth and chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the crockpot. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into a large bowl to discard solids. Shred the chicken meat, discarding the skin and bones, then return the shredded chicken to the broth.
- Cook the noodles: Prepare the rice noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked, rinse them under cool water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Assemble and serve: Divide the noodles among serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth and shredded chicken over the noodles. Garnish with bean sprouts, chopped cilantro, green onions, lime wedges, Thai basil leaves, and sliced jalapeños if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, sear the chicken thighs in a hot pan until browned before adding to the crockpot.
- You can use a mix of chicken thighs and drumsticks as a variation.
- Add a splash of hoisin sauce or sriracha at serving time for extra flavor and heat.
