Easy Gluten-Free Chicken Pho – Authentic Vietnamese Soup Made at Home

❤️Recipe Summary

If you’ve ever craved a comforting, flavorful bowl of Vietnamese chicken pho but needed it gluten-free, this recipe is for you! This dish features tender shredded chicken, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a deeply aromatic broth simmered with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and ginger. It’s simple, healthy, and perfect for cozy nights or cold days.

Reader Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“This is hands down the best homemade pho I’ve ever made! So flavorful and totally gluten-free. Even my kids loved it!”

Ingredients For Gluten-Free Chicken Pho:

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a delicious bowl of gluten-free chicken pho:

• Chicken: Use a whole chicken or bone-in thighs for a rich, full-bodied broth.
• Rice Noodles: Naturally gluten-free and traditional in Vietnamese pho.
• Onion & Fresh Ginger: Char these slightly for depth and authentic flavor.
• Spices: Star anise, cloves, cinnamon stick, and coriander seeds create that signature pho aroma.
• Fish Sauce: Choose a certified gluten-free brand for authenticity.
• Salt & Sugar: Balance the savory and sweet flavors.
• Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, Thai basil, mint, and green onions add freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Essential for a bright, tangy finish.

A Note From My Kitchen

One thing I’ve learned while perfecting this gluten-free pho recipe is that patience makes all the difference. The secret is simmering the broth slowly — at least 60 to 90 minutes — so the flavors develop fully. Don’t rush it, and you’ll be rewarded with a deep, aromatic broth that rivals your favorite restaurant pho!

How to Make Gluten-Free Chicken Pho (Step-By-Step)

1. Roast the Aromatics: Place onion halves and ginger slices on a baking sheet. Roast or char them until slightly blackened to enhance flavor.
2. Prepare the Broth Base: In a large pot, add chicken, roasted aromatics, cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, coriander seeds, and 10 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
3. Simmer Slowly: Skim off any foam that rises. Let the broth simmer for about 1.5 hours until rich and fragrant.
4. Season: Add gluten-free fish sauce, salt, and a touch of sugar. Taste and adjust as needed.
5. Cook Rice Noodles: Prepare noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. Assemble the Bowls: Add cooked noodles and shredded chicken to bowls, ladle hot broth over them, and top with herbs and lime wedges.
7. Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately with chili sauce, hoisin (gluten-free), or fresh jalapeño slices for spice.

Topping Ideas for Chicken Pho:

You can customize your pho bowl however you like. Try these delicious ideas:

• Fresh Thai basil
• Cilantro and mint leaves
• Bean sprouts
• Sliced jalapeños
• Lime wedges
• Gluten-free hoisin or chili sauce

Slow Cooker Instructions:

Want to make this even easier? Use your slow cooker!

1. Add chicken, spices, onion, ginger, and water to your slow cooker.
2. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours.
3. Remove chicken, strain broth, shred chicken, and return it to the slow cooker.
4. Serve hot over rice noodles with your favorite toppings.

Storage and Freezing Tips:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover broth and chicken separately for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the broth (without noodles) in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat broth on the stovetop and prepare fresh noodles for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well, though bone-in pieces give a richer broth.

Q2: Is fish sauce gluten-free?
Not always! Make sure to check the label — brands like Red Boat are certified gluten-free.

Q3: Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely. Replace chicken with vegetable broth and add tofu or mushrooms for texture.

Q4: What kind of noodles should I use?
Rice stick noodles or vermicelli are naturally gluten-free and perfect for pho.

Love This Recipe

If you enjoyed this gluten-free pho, share it on Pinterest or tag @GlutenFreeKitchen on Instagram — we’d love to see your bowl!

Slow Simmered Gluten-Free Chicken Pho

Equipment

• Large soup pot or slow cooker
• Mesh strainer
• Tongs
• Bowls for serving

Ingredients 1x2x3x

• 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs)
• 1 large onion, halved
• 3-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 star anise pods
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 10 cups water
• 3 tbsp gluten-free fish sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 8 oz rice noodles
• Fresh cilantro, mint, and basil for topping
• Lime wedges

Instructions

1. Char onion and ginger in a pan or oven.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken, aromatics, and spices. Cover with water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer 90 minutes.
4. Remove chicken, strain broth, and shred chicken meat.
5. Season broth with fish sauce, salt, and sugar.
6. Cook noodles separately.
7. Assemble bowls: add noodles, chicken, and ladle broth over top. Garnish with herbs and lime.

Notes

For a deeper broth flavor, simmer the chicken bones for an additional hour. Add a splash of gluten-free soy sauce if you prefer a saltier taste.

SPECIAL NOTE

Always ensure all sauces (especially fish sauce and hoisin) are labeled gluten-free. Even a small amount of wheat can cause cross-contamination.

Nutrition

Calories: 290 | Protein: 26g | Carbs: 34g | Fat: 6g | Sodium: 780mg

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.