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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, quartered; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, sliced; 2 star anise; 1 cinnamon stick; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Rice noodles; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Green onions, sliced; Lime wedges; Bean sprouts; Sliced jalapeños

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the rich flavors of Vietnamese pho in a simple, comforting soup made in your slow cooker.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:34:16.170Z

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup brings the traditional flavors of Vietnamese pho right to your kitchen with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, aromatic broth that warms the soul
Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Customizable with your favorite toppings

      

The Essence of Pho

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese soup known for its fragrant broth, tender meats, and fresh herbs. This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup captures the essence of pho with minimal effort. By utilizing a slow cooker, you can develop deep flavors over time, resulting in a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

The combination of spices, including star anise and cinnamon, infuses the broth with an aromatic profile that is both savory and slightly sweet. These spices are essential to achieving that authentic pho flavor, making your kitchen smell delightful as it simmers.

Versatile Toppings

One of the best aspects of pho is the variety of toppings you can choose from. This recipe encourages personalization, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients to create a bowl that suits your taste. Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and lime wedges add brightness and zest, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Not only do the toppings add flavor, but they also introduce different textures to your soup. Crunchy bean sprouts and soft rice noodles create a delightful contrast, making each spoonful interesting and satisfying. Feel free to experiment with other toppings like Thai basil or hoisin sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Meal Prep and Storage

This slow cooker chicken pho-style soup is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors intensify as they meld, making it even more delicious on day two. Just be sure to keep the noodles separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent them from getting soggy.

If you want to store the soup for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion the soup into airtight containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion, quartered
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, sliced
2 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
2 tablespoons fish sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Rice noodles
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Green onions, sliced
Lime wedges
Bean sprouts
Sliced jalapeños

Prepare the ingredients and have them ready to go for an easy cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, onion, garlic, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, and fish sauce.

Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Prepare rice noodles according to package instructions. Serve the soup over the noodles and top with cilantro, green onions, lime wedges, bean sprouts, and jalapeños.

Enjoy your homemade chicken pho-style soup!

Nutritional Benefits

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle health and repair. Additionally, the broth is hydrating and filled with minerals that can support overall well-being.

The vegetables and herbs included in this recipe, such as onion, garlic, and ginger, offer their own health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while ginger can aid digestion and reduce inflammation. Together, they create a wholesome dish that nourishes both body and soul.

Tips for the Best Pho

For the richest flavor, consider roasting the onion and ginger before adding them to the slow cooker. This simple step enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the broth. Additionally, be mindful of the cooking time; check the chicken at the 6-hour mark to ensure it remains tender and juicy.

If you prefer a spicier broth, feel free to add more jalapeños or a dash of chili oil when serving. Remember, pho is all about personal preference, so adjust the seasoning and toppings to your liking. Enjoy the journey of creating your perfect bowl of pho!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute with beef or tofu for a different flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to add basil, mint, or even hoisin sauce for extra flavor.