Breakfast FoodChicken DishComfort Food

    Chicken Pho

    Phở Gà

    4.840k-90k VNDBest in the morning or at lunch, but widely available throughout the day in Hanoi
    Long Nguyễn Đức
    Overview

    Hanoi's lighter, fragrant chicken noodle soup

    A clear, aromatic Vietnamese noodle soup made with rice noodles, poached or shredded chicken, chicken broth, scallions, herbs, and ginger. In Hanoi, phở gà is often cleaner and lighter than beef pho, with a delicate broth and simple toppings that let the chicken flavor stand out.
    Gallery

    Photos

    What's in it

    • Rice noodles
    • Chicken broth
    • Poached chicken
    • Shredded chicken
    • Ginger
    • Scallions
    • Cilantro
    • Fish sauce
    • Lime
    When to eat

    Best moments to enjoy it

    BreakfastLunchDinner

    Best in the morning or at lunch, but widely available throughout the day in Hanoi

    The story

    Origin & history

    Pho developed in northern Vietnam in the early 20th century, and chicken pho became a popular variation because chicken was more accessible and quicker to prepare than beef. In Hanoi, phở gà is now a classic breakfast and all-day comfort dish, especially valued for its clean broth and simple, balanced flavors.

    At the stall

    How to order & pay

    Ordering

    For solo diners, order 'phở gà' and ask for 'ít bánh' if you want a smaller noodle portion, or 'thêm thịt' for extra chicken. Say 'không da' to skip chicken skin, and 'tái' is not used here because chicken should be fully cooked. If you want a cleaner bowl, ask for 'nước trong' (clear broth).

    Paying

    Small neighborhood stalls often prefer cash, so carry 20,000-100,000 VND notes. Many casual restaurants now accept QR payments and local e-wallets, but foreign cards are still less reliable at street-level vendors.

    Good to know

    Allergens, nutrition & health

    Allergens

    Contains chicken and fish sauce; may be served with soy sauce, chili sauce, or shared condiments that can contain sesame or gluten traces

    Nutrition & benefits

    Provides lean protein, hydration from broth, and a lighter meal option with herbs and ginger

    Health notes

    Choose a busy stall with fast turnover for the freshest broth and chicken. If you have a sensitive stomach, go easy on chili, vinegar garlic, and raw herbs, and drink the broth while it is hot.

    How to eat it

    Add lime, herbs, and a little chili to taste, then stir gently. Use chopsticks for the noodles and chicken, and a spoon for the broth. If the chicken is served on the side, mix it into the soup gradually so the broth stays clear and fragrant.

    Where to eat it

    Best spots in Hanoi

    • Huyền Hương Chicken Phở

      Phở Gà Huyền Hương

      4.7

      20 P. Báo Khánh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

      Hours
      6:00 AM–9:00 PM
      View on map

    • Pho Ha Hang Hom

      Phở Hà Hàng Hòm

      4.2

      15 P. Hàng Hòm, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam

      Hours
      6:00 AM–11:30 PM
      View on map
    From the Journal

    Stories about Hanoi