easy vietnamese recipe with chicken
The Best easy vietnamese recipe with chicken
Oh, you’re in for a treat with this simple Vietnamese chicken recipe—I’ve been making it since my kids were little, and it’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug in every bite. There’s something so comforting about the bright, zesty flavors of lime and chili that make every meal feel fresh, even on busy weeknights. My family loves it because it’s easy to customize—you can make it spicier if the kids like heat, or milder if you’re going for a gentler taste. It’s also packed with protein and veggies, so it’s great for keeping everyone full without feeling heavy. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re feeding a crowd for a family gathering or just whipping up a quick dinner after a long day. The herbs and aromatics in this dish are simple but powerful, and they make the chicken taste even more vibrant than store-bought takeout ever could. Plus, it’s got that perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy that makes it feel like a little vacation on your plate. My kids would eat it every day if I let them, and honestly? I wouldn’t mind either. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like home.

Easy Vietnamese Chicken Pho (Simplified)
A comforting, aromatic Vietnamese noodle soup with tender chicken, fragrant broth, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
🥘Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 1 stalk lemongrass (split and bruised)
- 4 cloves garlic (smashed)
- 1-inch ginger (sliced)
- 1 carrot (cut into chunks)
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 8 oz rice noodles (pho noodles)
- 1 tsp salt
- Fresh cilantro
- Thai basil leaves
- Green onions (sliced)
- Lime wedges
- Crushed peanuts
- Thinly sliced radish
- Chopped cucumber
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned (5 mins). Remove and set aside.
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2 In the same pot, add lemongrass, garlic, ginger, carrot, and onion. Sauté for 3 mins until fragrant.
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3 Pour in chicken broth, fish sauce, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 25 mins, adding chicken back in after 10 mins.
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4 While broth simmers, boil rice noodles according to package instructions (usually 8-10 mins). Drain and rinse with cold water.
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5 Divide noodles among bowls. Ladle hot broth over noodles. Top with chicken, cilantro, basil, green onions, lime, peanuts, radish, and cucumber.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Steamer basket
- Mixing bowls
- Serving bowls
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Vietnamese Chicken Pho (Simplified) Works
This simple Vietnamese chicken dish is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s quick to make and feels special without the fuss. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family dinner, the bright, tangy flavors of lime and chili make it easy to serve in big portions, so everyone leaves happy. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can prep ahead, adjust the heat, or even skip the rice if you’re short on time, so it never feels like a chore.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnamese Chicken Pho (Simplified)
What is the easiest Vietnamese recipe with chicken that I can make at home?
The easiest Vietnamese chicken recipe is Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls with Chicken). It’s simple, fresh, and requires minimal prep. You’ll need chicken strips, rice paper wrappers, herbs (mint, cilantro, Thai basil), vermicelli noodles, and a light sauce (peanut or fish sauce with lime and chili).
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How do I prepare the chicken for this recipe?
For Gỏi Cuốn, marinate chicken in a mix of soy sauce, a little sugar, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of chili (optional). Cut the chicken into thin strips and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can quickly pan-fry or grill the chicken for a quicker method.
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What ingredients do I need for a simple Vietnamese Chicken Pho?
A basic Pho Chicken requires: – Chicken bones (neck or thigh) for broth – Rice noodles (pho noodles) – Lime leaves, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom – Fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, Thai basil) – Soft-cooked chicken slices – Soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chili for seasoning
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Can I make a quick Vietnamese Chicken Stir-Fry (Gà Chua)?
Yes! Gà Chua is a simple and delicious stir-fry. Slice chicken into strips, stir-fry with garlic, ginger, and chili. Add bell peppers, tomatoes, and a sauce made from soy sauce, lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar. Serve over rice or noodles.
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What’s the simplest way to make Vietnamese Chicken Lettuce Cups?
Chả Giò (Vietnamese Chicken Lettuce Cups) are easy to make! Marinate chicken strips in soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Pan-fry until crispy, then serve in lettuce leaves with a dipping sauce (fish sauce, lime, chili, and sugar). No special ingredients needed!
