Mediterranean Diet Pho Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Noodle Soup)

Transform your comfort food game with this Mediterranean Diet Pho Ga, a vibrant and wholesome take on the classic Vietnamese chicken noodle soup. This recipe seamlessly blends the bold, aromatic spices of traditional pho—like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves—with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like heart-healthy olive oil and nutrient-packed fresh herbs. A light yet deeply flavorful chicken broth forms the soul of this dish, simmered with charred ginger and onion for authenticity. Tender shredded chicken, silky rice noodles, and a medley of fresh garnishes such as cilantro, basil, mint, and zesty lime make each bowl a feast for the senses. Ready in just over an hour and packed with clean, nutritious ingredients, this globally inspired fusion soup is perfect for anyone seeking comfort without compromising on health.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 whole medium onion
• 2 inches fresh ginger
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 pieces star anise
• 1 piece cinnamon stick
• 4 pieces whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 large carrot
• 8 ounces rice noodles
• 1 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 cup fresh basil
• 1 cup fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 whole lime
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 2 stalks green onions
• 1 whole red chili pepper

Directions

Step 1

Prepare the aromatics by cutting the onion in half and slicing the ginger into thin rounds.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and ginger, allowing them to char slightly for about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Step 3

Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4

Tie the star anise, cinnamon stick, cloves, and fennel seeds in a small cheesecloth bag or place in a spice strainer, then add to the simmering broth.

Step 5

Cut the carrot into large pieces and add to the pot.

Step 6

Place the chicken breasts into the broth and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 7

Remove the chicken and transfer to a bowl. When cool enough to handle, shred the chicken using two forks.

Step 8

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 9

Strain the broth to remove onion, ginger, and spices, then return it to the pot.

Step 10

Season the broth with fish sauce and a squeeze of lime juice, adjusting to taste.

Step 11

Divide the cooked noodles into four bowls. Top each with shredded chicken, fresh cilantro, basil, mint, bean sprouts, sliced green onions, and sliced chili pepper.

Step 12

Pour the hot broth over each bowl of noodles and garnishes. Serve immediately, with additional lime wedges on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3021.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1294.6

Total Fat 34.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.5g
Cholesterol 295.8mg	0%
Sodium 3979.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 112.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.8g	0%
Total Sugars 24.8g
Protein 139.5g	0%

Vitamin D 17.4IU	0%
Calcium 356.2mg	0%
Iron 14.0mg	0%
Potassium 2396.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 23.4%

Protein: 42.4%

Carbs: 34.2%