Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup

Name: Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs); 8 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced; 2 star anise; 1 cinnamon stick; Salt to taste; 200g glass noodles; 2 green onions, chopped; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving; Chili slices, for serving

Highlighted under: Global Culinary Recipe Ideas

A comforting bowl of Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup, perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-09T23:11:20.288Z

This Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is a beloved dish known for its flavor and comfort. The glass noodles, made from mung bean starch, soak up the rich chicken broth, making each bite a delight. Perfect for rainy days or when you're feeling under the weather.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic broth infused with fresh herbs and spices
Tender chicken that falls off the bone
Glass noodles that add a unique texture

      

The Essence of Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and aromatic herbs. At the heart of many dishes lies the perfect broth, which serves as a foundation for countless recipes. This Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup captures the essence of this culinary tradition, offering a comforting blend of spices and herbs that awaken the senses.

What sets this dish apart is the use of glass noodles, which provide a delightful texture that complements the tender chicken and fragrant broth. This soup is not only nourishing but also embodies the spirit of sharing and togetherness, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Health Benefits of Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has long been celebrated for its health benefits, particularly in promoting wellness during cold and flu season. The warm broth is soothing for the throat and can help to alleviate congestion. Additionally, the nutrients from the chicken and herbs contribute to overall health, making this soup a go-to comfort food.

The inclusion of fresh ingredients like ginger and garlic not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the soup's nutritional profile. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while garlic can support the immune system. Together, they create a nourishing bowl that warms both the body and soul.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the best aspects of this Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize it to your taste by adding vegetables like bok choy, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture. You can also adjust the level of spice by including more chili slices or using a variety of peppers.

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute the chicken with tofu or a medley of mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead. This adaptability makes it easy to cater to different dietary preferences while still enjoying the heartwarming flavors of this beloved Vietnamese dish.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
8 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
2 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
Salt to taste

For the Noodles and Garnish

200g glass noodles
2 green onions, chopped
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Chili slices, for serving

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, combine the whole chicken, chicken broth, water, onion, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Cook the Noodles

While the broth is simmering, soak the glass noodles in hot water for about 15 minutes or until softened. Drain and set aside.

Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin.

Assemble the Soup

Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Taste the broth and add salt as needed. To serve, place a portion of glass noodles in a bowl, ladle the hot broth and chicken over the noodles, and garnish with green onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and chili slices.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover soup, storing it properly ensures that you can enjoy it later. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for longer preservation.

When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help restore the soup's consistency, as the noodles may absorb some of the liquid. Gently heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, but avoid boiling to maintain the texture of the noodles.

Serving Suggestions

This Vietnamese Chicken Glass Noodle Soup is delightful on its own, but serving it with fresh sides can elevate the experience. Consider pairing it with a refreshing side salad or spring rolls for a complete meal that showcases the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, add crispy fried shallots on top of your soup just before serving. They provide an extra layer of texture and flavor that complements the broth beautifully, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well and will provide a richer flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup is great on its own, but you can also serve it with spring rolls or a side salad.