Easy Chicken Broth Recipe

Discover the secret to a soul-warming, nutrient-packed chicken broth that will elevate your cooking and boost your health. This homemade chicken broth recipe is not just a simple soup base—it's a culinary tradition that brings comfort and incredible flavor to your kitchen. Whether you're a home cook looking to improve your dishes or someone seeking a nutritious, healing meal, this bone broth soup recipe is your perfect go-to.

Why Chicken Broth Recipe?

Chicken broth has been a staple in kitchens worldwide for generations. Rich in minerals, collagen, and essential nutrients, it's more than just a soup ingredient—it's a wellness elixir. During cold seasons or when you're feeling under the weather, a warm mug of homemade chicken broth can provide comfort and nourishment.

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Why Chicken Broth Recipe?
Ingredients
Equipment For Chicken Broth Recipe
Instructions
Hints and Tips
Dietary Benefits
Storage
Variations
FAQ
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Chicken Broth Recipe

Ingredients

3-4 pounds chicken bones (mix of wings, backs, and feet for best flavor)
2 large onions, quartered
3 carrots, rough chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Cold water to cover
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

For a low-sodium version, skip added salt
Vegetable alternatives: Use leeks or fennel for depth of flavor
Gluten-free: All ingredients are naturally gluten-free

Equipment For Chicken Broth Recipe

Large stockpot or slow cooker
Fine-mesh strainer
Large glass jars or containers for storage
Optional: Cheesecloth for extra-clear broth.

Instructions

Prepare the Bones

Roast chicken bones at 400°F for 30-45 minutes to enhance flavor
This step caramelizes the bones, creating a deeper, richer taste

Build the Broth Base

Place roasted bones in stockpot
Add chopped vegetables, herbs, and peppercorns
Pour in cold water until ingredients are fully covered
Add apple cider vinegar (helps extract nutrients from bones)

Slow Simmer

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to lowest heat
Simmer for 12-24 hours, skimming any foam that forms
Longer cooking time extracts more nutrients and flavor

Strain and Store

Remove from heat and let cool slightly
Strain through fine-mesh strainer
Discard solids
Store in airtight containers in refrigerator

Hints and Tips

For a clearer broth, strain through cheesecloth
Skim fat from top once cooled for a leaner broth
Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy use

Dietary Benefits

High in protein
Rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium
Supports gut health
Low-carb and keto-friendly
Naturally gluten-free

Storage

Refrigerate for up to 5 days
Freeze for up to 3 months
Store in glass or freezer-safe containers
Leave 1-inch space at top for expansion when freezing

Variations

Instant Pot method: Pressure cook for 2-3 hours
Vegetable broth variation: Replace chicken bones with mixed vegetables
Add turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits
Experiment with different herb combinations

FAQ

Is chicken broth just boiled chicken water?

No, chicken broth is more than just boiled chicken water. It's a flavorful liquid made by simmering chicken meat, bones, aromatics (onions, celery, carrots), and seasonings (herbs, salt, pepper) together. The slow cooking process extracts proteins, minerals, and flavors from all ingredients, creating a rich, nutritious base for soups and other dishes.

Are chicken stock and broth the same thing?

While similar, chicken stock and broth have distinct differences:
Stock is made primarily from bones, simmered longer (4-6 hours)
Broth is made from meat, simmered shorter (1-2 hours)
Stock is generally unseasoned; broth includes salt and seasonings
Stock has a richer mouthfeel due to gelatin from bones
Broth has a lighter, more meat-forward flavor

How do you make chicken broth taste better?

To enhance chicken broth flavor:
Add aromatics (onion, garlic, celery, carrots)
Include fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, bay leaves)
Roast bones/vegetables before simmering
Season properly with salt and pepper
Add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar
Simmer longer for deeper flavor
Strain well for clarity

What is the ratio of chicken to water for broth?

The ideal ratio for chicken broth is 3-4 pounds of chicken parts (meat and/or bones) to 4 quarts (16 cups) of water. This creates a well-balanced broth that's neither too weak nor too concentrated. Add vegetables at a ratio of roughly 1 pound aromatics per 4 quarts water. Adjust ratios based on desired strength.

How did your Chicken Broth Recipe turn out? Ready to savor something new? This recipe is sure to impress with its rich golden color, deep savory flavor, and aromatic blend of herbs and vegetables that creates the perfect foundation for countless dishes. If you're a fan of homemade basics and kitchen staples, be sure to try our Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Recipe next – another easy-to-make yet delicious treat!

Did you make this Chicken Broth Recipe? We'd love to hear about your experience! Leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Did you try any creative twists, like adding fresh ginger or lemongrass? Maybe you experimented with different herb combinations or roasted your vegetables first? Your feedback not only helps others but also contributes to our growing community of home cooks.

Don't forget to share a photo of your culinary creation! We love seeing that beautiful clear broth and those perfectly chopped aromatics. Everyone's broth has its own special touch, and we can't wait to see yours!

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Pairing

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Don’t miss our Chicken Casserole recipe! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with tender chicken and veggies—perfect for a family dinner.

Why Chicken Broth Recipe?