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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 star anise; 1 cinnamon stick; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups bean sprouts; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving; Sliced jalapeños, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup combines tender chicken with aromatic spices for a comforting meal any day of the week.

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-28T16:22:04.758Z

Inspired by the traditional Vietnamese Pho, this simplified version allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of the dish with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, making it perfect for busy days.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices create a comforting and flavorful broth
Tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
Perfectly paired with fresh herbs and lime for added freshness

      

The Comfort of Pho-Style Soup

Pho is a beloved Vietnamese dish known for its rich, aromatic broth, tender meat, and fresh herbs. This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup captures the essence of traditional pho, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors in a simplified, hands-off approach. By using a slow cooker, you can let the ingredients meld together, creating a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant version.

The combination of spices, including star anise and cinnamon, not only enhances the soup's aroma but also adds warmth and complexity to each spoonful. You'll find that this soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that warms the soul, making it perfect for cozy nights in or serving to guests who appreciate hearty, homemade comfort food.

Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference

One of the standout features of this pho-style soup is the fresh ingredients that elevate its taste. The use of boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures that the meat remains juicy and tender after hours of slow cooking. Coupled with an abundance of garlic and ginger, this recipe is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients.

To truly capture the spirit of pho, don’t skip the garnishes. Fresh cilantro, bean sprouts, and lime wedges add brightness to the broth, while sliced jalapeños provide the perfect kick for spice lovers. These fresh toppings not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also contribute layers of flavor, making each bowl a delightful experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pho-Style Soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner for your family, hosting a gathering, or looking for a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe fits the bill. You can even prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Moreover, this dish is a great option for meal prep. Prepare a large batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for later. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat and freshen it up with your favorite garnishes for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
8 cups chicken broth
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, minced
2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups bean sprouts
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Sliced jalapeños, for serving

Feel free to add any additional toppings you enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In the slow cooker, add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, onion, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, brown sugar, star anise, cinnamon stick, and season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Soup

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

Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the soup. Discard the onion, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the soup hot, topped with bean sprouts, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Chicken Pho-Style Soup!

Tips for the Best Pho-Style Soup

To ensure your soup is bursting with flavor, consider using high-quality chicken broth. Homemade broth can make a world of difference, but if you're short on time, opt for a low-sodium store-bought version. This allows you to control the saltiness of your soup while still enjoying a rich flavor profile.

Another tip is to let the chicken cook undisturbed for the full six hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a broth that's rich and satisfying. If time allows, try cooking it overnight and waking up to a delightful aroma that fills your home.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the soup without the garnishes. When reheating, allow the soup to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

When ready to serve reheated soup, remember to refresh it with fresh herbs and lime for the best flavor. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a vibrant touch to your bowl, making it feel like a fresh meal once again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.