Imagine the comforting aroma of homemade chicken broth wafting through your kitchen, inviting you to savor every warm sip. This "Easy Homemade Chicken Broth" recipe is not just a culinary staple; it's a heartwarming experience that transforms simple ingredients into a nourishing elixir. Whether you're battling a cold, crafting the perfect soup, or simply wanting to elevate your dishes, this broth is your secret weapon. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a rich, flavorful broth that will have your family begging for more. Ready to unlock the secrets of this timeless recipe? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 cups
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water
Instructions
- Remove the giblets from the whole chicken and rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water.
- Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot or Dutch oven, ensuring it fits comfortably.
- Add chopped carrots, celery stalks, quartered onion, and smashed garlic cloves around the chicken.
- Carefully add enough cold water to completely cover the chicken and vegetables, leaving about 1-2 inches of space at the top of the pot.
- Add the bay leaf and a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low, creating a slow simmer.
- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during the first 30 minutes of cooking.
- Partially cover the pot with a lid and let the broth simmer slowly for
- 5 to 4 hours, maintaining a very gentle bubble.
- Check occasionally and add more water if the liquid reduces significantly below the chicken.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the chicken and vegetables using a slotted spoon or strainer.
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth to remove any remaining solids.
- Let the broth cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. The fat will rise to the top and can be easily skimmed off once chilled.
- Store the broth in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best flavor, opt for a whole chicken rather than just bones. This will give your broth a richer taste and more nutrients.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow your broth to simmer gently for
- 5 to 4 hours. A slow simmer extracts maximum flavor from the chicken and vegetables, creating a deep, satisfying broth.
- Skim the Foam: During the first 30 minutes of cooking, be sure to skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface. This will result in a clearer, more appealing broth.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your broth before straining and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later in your dishes!
- Save the Chicken: After cooking, don’t discard the chicken! It can be shredded and used in salads, sandwiches, or soups, adding even more value to your broth-making endeavor.
- Store Properly: After straining, let the broth cool completely before refrigerating. Store it in airtight containers to keep it fresh for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months for future use.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley, or even a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist! Customize your broth to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
