Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup

Name: Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, quartered; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 piece ginger, sliced; 2 star anise; 1 cinnamon stick; 1 tsp coriander seeds; Salt and pepper to taste; Rice noodles; Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro) for garnish; Lime wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup is a deliciously aromatic dish that brings the flavors of Vietnam to your kitchen effortlessly.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-28T16:22:08.355Z

This hearty soup is perfect for cold days, providing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that fill your kitchen with a delightful fragrance
Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Customizable toppings for a personalized touch

      

Aromatic Ingredients Make All the Difference

The heart of any great pho-style soup lies in its aromatic spices. In this recipe, star anise, cinnamon, and coriander seeds create a warm, inviting flavor profile that will transport you straight to Vietnam. As the soup simmers in the slow cooker, these spices release their essential oils, filling your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance that whets your appetite long before the meal is served.

The use of fresh ingredients such as ginger, garlic, and onion enhances the soup's depth of flavor. Together, they not only provide a wonderful base but also contribute to the health benefits associated with traditional pho. This combination of spices and aromatics ensures that every spoonful of soup is a delightful experience.

Customizable Toppings for a Personal Touch

One of the best aspects of this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup is the ability to customize it according to your taste preferences. The toppings you choose can add layers of flavor and texture, making each bowl uniquely yours. Fresh herbs like basil and cilantro provide a burst of freshness, while lime wedges add a tangy kick that balances the rich broth beautifully.

Feel free to experiment with additional toppings such as sliced jalapeños for heat, bean sprouts for crunch, or even a drizzle of hoisin or sriracha sauce to enhance the flavor profile. This flexibility allows you to create a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your family and friends.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This chicken pho-style soup is not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe to have plenty of leftovers for the week ahead. The flavors deepen and develop even more after a day in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for busy weekdays when you need a quick, nourishing meal.

Simply reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave, and freshen it up with a few more herbs and a squeeze of lime. This dish is not only satisfying but also makes for an excellent lunch option, ensuring you can enjoy a taste of Vietnam even on your busiest days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your soup:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, quartered
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 piece ginger, sliced
2 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
1 tsp coriander seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Rice noodles
Fresh herbs (basil, cilantro) for garnish
Lime wedges for serving

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

Place the chicken breast, chicken broth, onion, garlic, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, coriander seeds, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.

Cook the Soup

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the soup.

Prepare Rice Noodles

Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Serve the Soup

In bowls, add some rice noodles and ladle the soup over them. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken pho-style soup!

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Pho

To ensure the best flavor, consider using bone-in chicken instead of boneless. The bones add richness to the broth and enhance the overall taste of the soup. If you prefer a lighter option, skinless chicken breast works well too.

Don’t rush the cooking process. The slow cooker is designed to develop deep flavors over time, so allow the soup to simmer for the full duration recommended in the recipe. This patience will reward you with a deliciously rich broth.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, try adding different proteins such as shrimp or beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of noodles, such as udon or soba, for a twist on the traditional rice noodles.

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth. You can still follow the same spice and ingredient proportions, which will create a comforting and hearty soup that everyone can enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice noodles and broth.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can store the soup in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use tofu or any other protein of your choice for a vegetarian option.