Chicken bone broth is a time-honored dish loved for its rich, comforting flavor and numerous health benefits. This simple yet powerful broth is made by simmering chicken bones with vegetables and spices, extracting essential nutrients and collagen from the bones. Bone broth is known for its potential to support joint health, aid digestion, and boost the immune system. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it’s also incredibly versatile and can be used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces.
The origins of bone broth date back to ancient times, where it was valued for its restorative properties. It’s especially popular in various cultural cuisines, from traditional French consommé to the Korean dish, samgyetang. Today, bone broth is celebrated for its health benefits and comforting qualities.
Ingredients
To make your own chicken bone broth, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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2-3 lbs chicken bones (including carcasses, wings, or feet)
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2 medium carrots, chopped
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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1 medium onion, quartered (leave the skin on for extra nutrients)
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3-4 garlic cloves, smashed
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1-2 bay leaves
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1 tablespoon black peppercorns
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (helps extract nutrients from the bones)
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12 cups water (or enough to cover the bones and vegetables)
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Salt, to taste (you can adjust depending on preference)
Substitutions for dietary preferences:
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Vegetarian option: Use vegetable stock or replace chicken bones with roasted vegetables like onions, carrots, and mushrooms for a plant-based broth.
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Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
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Low-sodium: Skip or reduce the amount of salt, or choose low-sodium options for the added ingredients.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients:
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Rinse the chicken bones under cold water to remove any impurities. This step helps create a cleaner broth.
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Chop the vegetables and smash the garlic cloves for more flavor.
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Add to the Pot:
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In a large stockpot or slow cooker, add the chicken bones, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and apple cider vinegar.
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Pour in Water:
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Add water to the pot, ensuring the bones and vegetables are fully covered. For extra flavor, you can use filtered water.
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Bring to a Boil and Simmer:
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Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. For the best results, simmer for at least 6-12 hours. The longer you cook it, the richer and more flavorful the broth will be. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it to low and cook for 12-24 hours.
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Skim and Strain:
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During the cooking process, skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This will help create a clearer broth.
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After cooking, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into another pot or large bowl. Discard the bones and vegetables.
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Cool and Store:
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Allow the broth to cool to room temperature, then store it in jars or containers. Bone broth can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for several months.
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Pro Tip: If you want a gel-like consistency when chilled, ensure you’re using enough bones with connective tissue (like feet or joints), which provide collagen.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Extra Flavor: Roasting the chicken bones and vegetables in the oven at 400°F for 30 minutes before simmering can deepen the flavor of your broth.
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Using a Slow Cooker: A slow cooker is a great way to make bone broth as it can cook low and slow, extracting maximum nutrients with minimal attention.
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Skimming: Skimming the broth regularly will remove impurities and help maintain a cleaner broth, which is essential for flavor.
Variations and Customizations
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Herbs & Spices: Customize the broth by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. You can also add ginger, turmeric, or chili flakes for a unique flavor twist.
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Fusion: Try a Japanese-inspired bone broth by adding miso paste or soy sauce for a savory kick.
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Keto-Friendly: Bone broth is naturally low in carbs, making it a perfect addition to a keto or low-carb diet.
Serving Suggestions
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Garnishing: Serve your chicken bone broth in a bowl and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add a refreshing touch.
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Pairings: Pair the broth with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or enjoy it on its own as a soothing, nourishing drink. For an extra hearty meal, serve with noodles or rice.
Nutritional Information (per 1 cup)
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Calories: 35-50 kcal (depending on the richness of the broth)
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Protein: 7-9 g
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Carbohydrates: 2-3 g
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Fat: 1-2 g
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Sodium: 200-300 mg (varies depending on the salt added)
This is an estimate based on using chicken bones and water without added salt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long should I cook the chicken bones for broth?
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It’s best to cook the bones for at least 6-12 hours. If you can, cook for up to 24 hours to extract maximum nutrients.
2. Can I reuse the bones?
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You can reuse the bones for a second batch, but the broth will be weaker. For best results, use fresh bones for each batch.
3. How do I store bone broth?
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Store the broth in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for several months.
4. How can I use bone broth in recipes?
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Bone broth is versatile! Use it as a base for soups, risottos, stews, or simply enjoy it as a comforting drink.
Closing Thoughts
Chicken bone broth is more than just a tasty, nutrient-dense recipe. It’s a comforting tradition that nourishes both the body and soul. Whether you sip it alone or use it in other dishes, making your own broth is rewarding and easy. We encourage you to give it a try and share your results with us. Have fun experimenting with different flavors and variations to make the recipe your own!
