Crockpot Pho Ga (Chicken Pho)

Name: Crockpot Pho Ga (Chicken Pho)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs); 2 onions, halved; 1 piece of ginger (about 3 inches), sliced; 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 3 star anise; 1 cinnamon stick; 1 tablespoon coriander seeds; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; Salt to taste; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon sugar; Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, green onions) for garnish; Lime wedges for serving; Rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy a steaming bowl of Crockpot Pho Ga, a flavorful and aromatic Vietnamese chicken soup that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:30:55.332Z

Crockpot Pho Ga is a comforting dish that brings the warm flavors of Vietnam to your kitchen. With tender chicken, fresh herbs, and a richly spiced broth, this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic broth that develops flavor over time
Tender chicken that falls off the bone
Easy preparation with minimal hands-on time
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

      

The Heart of Pho: The Broth

A good bowl of pho starts with a rich, flavorful broth. In this recipe, we use a whole chicken, which provides a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. The slow cooking process allows the chicken and spices to release their essence, creating a broth that is both aromatic and comforting. The addition of spices like star anise and cinnamon brings a unique warmth, making this dish a perfect choice for any season.

The secret to a great pho broth is patience. Allowing it to simmer for several hours not only deepens the flavor but also allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. This process transforms simple ingredients into a soul-soothing liquid that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. When the broth is ready, you’ll be left with a fragrant base that elevates the entire dish.

Perfectly Shredded Chicken

Once the broth has finished cooking, the chicken will be tender and easy to shred. Removing the skin and bones is essential, as it allows you to enjoy the juicy meat without any unwanted textures. Shredded chicken not only adds protein to your meal but also absorbs the delicious broth, enhancing each bite with flavor. This step is critical to achieving that authentic pho experience.

Using a whole chicken is a budget-friendly option that also maximizes flavor. The bones contribute to the richness of the broth while the meat provides substance. After shredding, you can reserve any leftover chicken for other dishes throughout the week—making this recipe not only delicious but also practical.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation is key when serving pho. Start with a generous portion of cooked rice noodles in each bowl. The noodles serve as a hearty base, soaking up the savory broth. Ladling the steaming broth over the noodles creates an inviting dish that is sure to impress your family or guests. Don’t forget to top it off with the shredded chicken for a complete meal.

Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil and cilantro adds a burst of freshness that elevates the flavor profile. Lime wedges provide a tangy contrast, allowing everyone to customize their bowl. You can also include bean sprouts, sliced jalapeños, or hoisin sauce for those who enjoy a little kick. This flexibility makes pho not only delicious but also a fun dish to personalize.

Ingredients

For the Pho

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
2 onions, halved
1 piece of ginger (about 3 inches), sliced
4 cloves garlic, smashed
3 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
1 tablespoon coriander seeds
1 tablespoon fish sauce
Salt to taste
8 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon sugar
Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro, green onions) for garnish
Lime wedges for serving
Rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions

Gather all your ingredients to make this delicious Pho Ga.

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In your crockpot, combine the whole chicken, onions, ginger, garlic, star anise, cinnamon stick, coriander seeds, fish sauce, salt, chicken broth, and sugar. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.

Shred the Chicken

After 6 hours, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin.

Assemble the Pho

In bowls, place a portion of cooked rice noodles. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and top with shredded chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs and lime wedges.

Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Pho Ga!

Tips for the Best Pho

For the best results, use high-quality chicken and fresh herbs. Organic and free-range chickens will yield a richer broth and better flavor. Fresh herbs not only enhance the taste but also contribute to the dish’s vibrant colors, making it visually appealing. Additionally, consider making the broth a day ahead; letting it cool and refrigerate overnight will allow the flavors to develop even further.

To streamline the cooking process, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the onions and ginger the night before, and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve the pho, allowing you to focus on enjoying the meal with your loved ones.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Crockpot Pho Ga is an excellent dish for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the broth and noodles separately to maintain the texture of the noodles. When reheating, simply warm the broth on the stove and add the noodles just before serving to ensure they don’t become mushy.

If you want to keep your pho for longer, consider freezing the broth. It can be stored in airtight containers for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the broth overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove. You can then add freshly cooked noodles and toppings for a quick and comforting meal.

Variations on Pho

While this recipe focuses on Chicken Pho, you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes. For a beef version, substitute the chicken with beef bones or brisket, and adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices according to your preference, adding ingredients like cardamom or cloves for a unique twist.

Vegetarians can enjoy a delicious pho by using vegetable broth and replacing the chicken with tofu or mushrooms. This allows everyone to savor the rich flavors of pho, regardless of dietary preferences. The versatility of the dish is one of the reasons it remains a beloved staple in Vietnamese cuisine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but they may not be as flavorful as a whole chicken.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Ensure you use gluten-free fish sauce and check that your rice noodles are gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, the broth and chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What side dishes pair well with Pho Ga?

Spring rolls or a light salad are great accompaniments to Pho Ga.