Name: Rotisserie Chicken Pho
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 8 cups chicken stock or broth; 3 star anise; 1 cinnamon stick; 1 2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced; 1 onion, halved; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 12 ounces rice noodles (banh pho); 1 cup bean sprouts; 1 lime, cut into wedges; 1 jalapeño or Thai chili, sliced (optional); 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 small white onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, mint)

There are few things as soul-soothing as a steaming bowl of pho, especially when it’s packed with tender chicken, fresh herbs, and fragrant broth. This rotisserie chicken pho skips the time-consuming step of roasting and simmering bones for hours by starting with a store-bought rotisserie chicken, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight meal that still feels homemade and full of love.

The beauty of this recipe is how it turns convenience into comfort. With a few smart shortcuts and a pantry stocked with Asian staples like fish sauce, star anise, and rice noodles, you’ll have a nourishing meal on the table in under an hour. It’s fragrant, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Rotisserie Chicken Pho

This recipe is your weeknight savior. It takes everything you crave about traditional pho—the warm spices, the deeply savory broth, the freshness of herbs and lime—and simplifies the process without compromising flavor. Using rotisserie chicken speeds things up while still giving the dish a rich, meaty taste. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken in a totally new and exciting way.

What Kind of Noodles Should I Use for Pho?

Rice noodles are the traditional choice for pho, specifically flat rice noodles labeled as “banh pho.” They’re light, chewy, and hold the broth beautifully. If you can, use medium-width rice noodles for that perfect slurp. Always follow the package directions for cooking and rinse them well to prevent sticking. Avoid using vermicelli or thin noodles if you’re after a heartier texture.

Ingredients for the Rotisserie Chicken Pho

The key to an unforgettable pho is balancing aromatics, protein, and a rich broth. Here’s how each ingredient brings something special to the bowl.

Rotisserie chicken: The time-saver that brings flavorful, cooked meat to your bowl without extra steps.

Chicken stock or broth: Use a good-quality low-sodium stock to create a rich base. You can mix in a bit of water to adjust saltiness.

Star anise: This spice delivers that signature pho aroma and sweet, licorice-like warmth.

Cinnamon stick: Adds depth and a cozy spice undertone that complements the savory elements.

Fresh ginger: A slice of ginger infuses the broth with a sharp, cleansing zing.

Onion: Charred or caramelized, it deepens the broth’s flavor and color.

Fish sauce: Essential for a savory umami backbone. Add to taste, but don’t skip it.

Brown sugar: Just a touch balances the saltiness and rounds out the spices.

Rice noodles (banh pho): The chewy base of every good pho bowl.

Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, mint): Bring that bright, cooling contrast to the warm broth.

Bean sprouts and lime wedges: Crunch and tang make every bite more exciting.

Jalapeños or Thai chilies: Optional heat for those who like it spicy.

Green onions and white onion (thinly sliced): Fresh toppings to add texture and flavor at the end.

How To Make the Rotisserie Chicken Pho

Step 1: Create the Fragrant Broth

In a large pot, combine chicken stock, star anise, cinnamon stick, sliced ginger, and onion. Simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to allow the aromatics to infuse. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor.

Step 2: Season and Balance

Add fish sauce and brown sugar to the broth. Taste and adjust as needed—you want a balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic. Strain out the solids once the broth has reached your desired depth.

Step 3: Prep the Noodles

Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Rinse under cold water and set aside. They should be tender but still hold a slight bite.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Divide the noodles into serving bowls. Top with shredded rotisserie chicken and ladle over the hot broth. The steam will warm the chicken through.

Step 5: Add Freshness

Top each bowl with a handful of bean sprouts, sliced onions, green onions, herbs, and optional chilies. Finish with a squeeze of lime and enjoy.

Serving and Storing Rotisserie Chicken Pho

This pho serves 4 people generously, making it ideal for family dinner or a few days of cozy lunches. Serve it piping hot and let everyone add their preferred toppings at the table—it’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy the meal.

Leftovers can be stored by keeping the broth and toppings separate. The broth will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for longer. Store cooked noodles in a separate container with a bit of oil to keep them from sticking. Reheat the broth and assemble just before serving for the best texture.

What to Serve With Rotisserie Chicken Pho?

Fresh Spring Rolls

These light rolls filled with shrimp, rice noodles, and fresh herbs pair perfectly with pho.

Vietnamese Iced Coffee

Sweetened condensed milk meets strong coffee for a rich drink that balances the warmth of the soup.

Pickled Vegetables

A tangy side dish adds crunch and acidity to balance the broth.

Scallion Pancakes

Crispy, savory, and great for dipping—these are fun to tear and share.

Cucumber Salad

Light, fresh, and tossed in rice vinegar, it’s a refreshing contrast.

Garlic Soy Green Beans

These quick sautéed beans bring extra umami to the table.

Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls

For a twist of creamy crunch, these fusion egg rolls bring the heat【5†source】.

Easy Homemade Naan Bread

Not traditional, but ideal for soaking up any leftover broth and surprisingly complementary【5†source】.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this cozy chicken pho, check out more comforting bowls and brothy wonders like:

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for richness and spice.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta when you’re craving seafood comfort.
Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet with a tangy twist.
Creamy Mushroom Ravioli if you’re in the mood for a pasta soup hybrid.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments if you added extra spice or kept it mellow. Did you char your onions or keep it simple? This is the kind of pho that welcomes your personal touch.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting soups and bowls on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next bowl of comfort!

Conclusion

Rotisserie Chicken Pho delivers the soul of traditional pho in a fraction of the time. It’s a feel-good recipe that invites everyone to customize their own bowl, making it perfect for gatherings or solo cozy nights. With nourishing broth, satisfying noodles, and loads of fresh herbs, this is a weeknight winner you’ll turn to again and again.