Chicken pho, a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, has become a beloved dish worldwide. Known for its aromatic broth, tender chicken, and hearty noodles, chicken pho can be a nutritious meal option. Still, if you want to understand more about the food you put in your body, we’ve got you covered.
A Quick Look at Chicken Pho Nutritional Facts
A typical serving of chicken pho contains about 350 to 450 calories. Its nutritional balance is heavily protein-based and complex carbohydrate-rich. It is relatively low in fat, making it a heart-healthy choice.
Additionally, thanks to its mix of fresh herbs and vegetables, it’s enriched with vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, and magnesium.
What is Chicken Pho?
Chicken pho, or pho ga, is a Vietnamese soup known for its clear broth, tender slices of chicken, and rice noodles, all flavored with various herbs and spices. The essence of chicken pho lies in its broth, traditionally made by simmering chicken bones for hours to extract a rich, savory flavor. This is seasoned with star anise, cinnamon, and ginger, creating a distinctive, comforting, and refreshing taste.
Nutritional Breakdown of Chicken Pho
- Calories: A standard bowl of chicken pho contains approximately 350 to 450 calories, making it a moderate option for calorie-conscious diners.
- Carbohydrates: With about 40 to 55 grams per serving, most carbs come from rice noodles, offering energy through complex carbohydrates.
- Proteins: Chicken pho shines in its protein content, providing around 20 to 30 grams per bowl. Lean chicken meat contributes to muscle repair and growth.
- Fats: This dish is relatively low in fat, with around 5 to 10 grams per serving, most of which are healthier unsaturated fats.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The broth and vegetable garnishes in chicken pho supply a variety of vitamins and minerals. Thanks to onions and herbs, vitamins A and C are present, while magnesium and calcium can be found in the broth.
| Nutrient | Average Amount |
| Calories | 350-450 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40-55 g |
| Proteins | 20-30 g |
| Fats | 5-10 g |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Varied |
Health Benefits of Chicken Pho
Beyond its basic nutritional value, chicken pho offers several health benefits, making it a worthy addition to any diet:
- Immune System Support: The chicken broth is rich in minerals that can support immune system function. At the same time, spices like ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Digestive Health: The broth in chicken pho helps hydrate and soothe the digestive tract, while the herbs can aid digestion and relieve stomach issues.
- Weight Management: Chicken pho, balanced with lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and low-fat content, can be a satisfying meal that fits well into weight management plans.
- Muscle Recovery: The high protein content from chicken makes this dish a great post-workout meal for muscle recovery and growth.
Comparing Chicken Pho with Other Soups
While chicken pho is a nutritious option, understanding how it compares to other popular soups can help you make informed dietary choices. Let’s compare its nutritional value with tomato soup and beef soup.
- Calories: Chicken pho generally has fewer calories than beef soup, which can be higher in fat and is comparable to tomato soup, depending on the recipes used.
- Carbohydrates: The rice noodles in chicken pho contribute to its carbohydrate content, which might be higher than that in tomato soup but similar to or less than in beef soup, especially if potatoes or other starchy vegetables are used.
- Proteins: Chicken pho typically offers a higher protein content than tomato soup and can be comparable to beef soup, making it an excellent choice for muscle repair and growth.
- Fats: Chicken pho is lower in fat than beef soup, which often contains higher fat cuts of meat. It’s also leaner than cream-based tomato soups.
| Soup Type | Calories | Carbohydrates | Proteins | Fats |
| Chicken Pho | 350-450 | 40-55g | 20-30g | 5-10g |
| Tomato Soup | 150-300 | 18-40g | 2-5g | 3-20g |
| Beef Soup | 200-500 | 20-60g | 20-30g | 10-15g |
How to Make Nutritious Chicken Pho at Home
Creating a healthier version of chicken pho at home allows you to control the ingredients and their quality, further boosting its nutritional value. Here’s how you can make a nutritious chicken photo art with a Good Broth: Simmer organic chicken bones with onions, ginger, and spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves to create a flavorful, nutrient-rich broth.
- Choose Lean Chicken: Opt for skinless chicken breasts to keep the fat content low while providing high-quality protein.
- Load Up on Veggies: Incorporate a variety of vegetables, such as bok choy, carrots, and mushrooms, to add vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Go Whole Grain: Use whole grain or brown rice noodles to increase the dish’s fiber content, contributing to better digestion and a feeling of fullness.
- Herb it Up: Don’t skimp on fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint. They add flavor without extra calories and offer numerous health benefits.
Final Thoughts on Chicken Pho Nutrition
Chicken pho is a nutrient-packed meal supporting a healthy lifestyle. With its balanced blend of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and various vitamins and minerals, chicken pho is a nutritious choice among traditional dishes.
If you’re in the Colorado area and interested in trying delicious foods like chicken pho, make sure to call us.We deliver meals in Windsor, Fort Collins, Thornton, and the rest of Northern Colorado. We now deliver bulk groceries to your door as well.
Still hungry for nutrition facts? Check out our other blogs:
- Learn more about uncooked rice.
- Get the scoop on pork tamales.
- Steak protein and calorie count.