1. Preparation

-Clean the chicken with salt.
-Rinse the pork bones, bring to a boil, then discard the water.
-Slice the white part of the green onions thinly; chop the green parts.
-Chop some cilantro and leave some whole.
-Slice lime leaves into thin strips (optional, based on preference).

2. Cooking

-Toast the star anise, cinnamon, black cardamom, and coriander seeds in a pan until fragrant.
-Char the shallots and ginger to bring out their aroma.
-Cut the onion into 6-8 wedges, then slice thinly for serving.
-Add water to a pot and simmer the pork bones. When the water boils, add the chicken and a bit of seasoning for flavor.
-Place all the toasted spices in a spice bag (or wrap in cheesecloth if you don't have a bag) and add to the broth.

When the water starts boiling, add the chicken to cook together.
Continue simmering the broth over medium heat. Once it boils, reduce to a low simmer.
-When the chicken is just cooked, remove it and let it cool.
*Note: To keep the broth clear, lower the heat when it boils, partially cover the pot, and skim off any foam.

Shred the chicken meat and set aside. Return the bones, head, neck, and feet to the pot to continue simmering the broth.
-Simmer the chicken broth on low heat for 30 minutes to 1 hour so the bones release their flavor and the aromatics infuse the broth. There will be a thin layer of chicken fat on top. If you prefer a richer broth, you can add extra chicken fat.

Season the broth with fish sauce, salt, and MSG to taste. Add a pinch of sugar to round out the flavor (use good-quality fish sauce if possible).
-Briefly dip the rice noodles in boiling water using a strainer, shake off excess water, and place in a bowl. Top with shredded chicken, green onions, cilantro, and sliced onion. Ladle the hot broth over the top and sprinkle with lime leaves for aroma. The broth should be simmering hot when served. Add lime, chili, and pepper to taste.

The most important part of making phở is the broth. A good chicken phở broth should be clear, sweet, and light. Use high-quality chicken with firm, flavorful meat. Choose rice noodles that are soft but not mushy or tough. All these elements together create an authentic bowl of chicken phở.