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Pho is a classic Vietnamese noodle soup known for its deeply aromatic broth, tender protein, and fresh toppings. While traditional pho can take hours to prepare, this Rotisserie Chicken Pho recipe simplifies the process using leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s part of my Rotisserie Chicken Meal Prep Series, designed to save time and effort while still delivering incredible flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy people, students, or anyone who wants a delicious and hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What is Rotisserie Chicken?

Rotisserie chicken is a pre-cooked whole chicken, slow-roasted on a rotisserie spit for tender, juicy meat. Found in most grocery stores, it’s a convenient option for quick meals. Its versatility makes it a great base for a variety of dishes, from salads to soups like pho.

Why Use Rotisserie Chicken in Meal Prep?

• Time-Saving: No cooking or seasoning required—it’s ready to use.
• Cost-Effective: One chicken can create multiple meals for the week.
• Flavorful: The seasoning from the rotisserie enhances your recipes.

Storing and Using Rotisserie Chicken

To make the most of your rotisserie chicken:

1. Refrigerate: Remove the meat from the bones and store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
2. Freeze: Portion out shredded chicken into containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Bones for Broth: Save the bones to make rich, flavorful broths like the one in this pho recipe.

What Makes Pho So Special?

Pho is celebrated for its flavorful broth infused with a unique blend of spices. While making traditional pho can take hours of simmering beef or chicken bones, this recipe cuts the time more than half by using rotisserie chicken.

Traditional Pho Spices

Pho broth owes its aroma to a mix of fragrant spices. These are often available as pre-packaged spice blends in Asian grocery stores, making the process even easier. The spice packets typically include a small spice bag for steeping, ensuring no stray seeds end up in your soup.

DIY Pho Spice Blend:
If you can’t find a pre-made packet, here’s what you’ll need:

• 5 star anise pods
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tsp whole cloves
• ½ tbsp coriander seeds
• 1 black cardamom pod
• ½ tbsp fennel seeds

Lightly toast these spices in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant to maximize their flavor.

Rotisserie Chicken Pho Recipe

This recipe turns leftover rotisserie chicken into a hearty, aromatic soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Pho Spice Blend

• 1 ready-made pho spice packet OR
• DIY blend listed above

For the Broth

• 1 large onion, halved
• 1 large piece of ginger, halved lengthwise
• 2 liters water
• 700-900g rotisserie chicken bones and fat
• 4-5 tbsp fish sauce
• 1-2 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1 tbsp sugar (or rock sugar if available)

Toppings

• Rice noodles (cook as per package instructions)
• Rotisserie chicken meat, shredded into bite-sized pieces
• Bean sprouts
• Fresh mint and/or coriander
• Pickled onions
• Red chillies, sliced
• Lemon or lime wedges
• Sriracha sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Aromatics and Spices

• Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Place onion halves (skin on) and ginger (cut side up) on a baking tray. Roast until the outer layer is charred.
• In a dry pan, toast the spices lightly over medium heat until fragrant. If using a spice bag, place the toasted spices inside and tie securely.

2. Make the Broth

• Add the rotisserie chicken bones and fat to 2 liters of water in a large pot. Heat gently over medium heat.
• Once the water begins to warm, add the roasted onion, ginger, toasted spices, fish sauce, bouillon cubes, and sugar.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 30-40 minutes.
• Taste and adjust the broth:
  • Too salty? Add more water.
  • Lacking depth? Add more fish sauce or another bouillon cube.
• Strain it well – double or triple times to ensure all solids are removed and you’re left with a smooth broth.

3. Prepare the Noodles

• Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

4. Assemble the Pho

• Divide the cooked noodles into serving bowls.
• Ladle the hot broth over the noodles, ensuring each bowl gets shredded chicken and aromatic spices.
• Add toppings: bean sprouts, fresh herbs, pickled onions, red chillies, and a squeeze of lemon or lime.
• Serve hot with sriracha sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Rotisserie Chicken Pho

1. Enhance the Broth Flavor: Simmer the broth for an additional 20-30 minutes for an even deeper taste.
2. Pho Spice Convenience: Using pre-made spice packets simplifies the process, but toasting whole spices fresh adds a robust aroma.
3. Toppings Matter: Fresh mint, coriander, and bean sprouts are essential for adding crunch and freshness to balance the rich broth.
4. Make Ahead: The broth can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for 3 days or frozen for 3 months.

Why Rotisserie Chicken Pho is a Game-Changer

This recipe redefines weeknight cooking by combining the convenience of rotisserie chicken with the authentic flavors of Vietnamese pho. It’s part of my Meal Prep, where I transform one rotisserie chicken into multiple meals like One Pot Rice & Enchiladas. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a flavorful bowl of pho that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.