Chicken bone broth recipe — those three words bring back memories of the first winter I tried to make it myself. I remember standing in my small kitchen, the windows fogged up from the steam, as the rich aroma of simmering chicken bones filled the house. It wasn’t just about cooking; it was about creating something nourishing, something that felt like a hug in a cup.
Back then, I was tired of store-bought broth that tasted flat and watered down. I wanted to know: could I make the real thing at home? Could I create the kind of homemade chicken bone broth recipe my grandmother always talked about — one packed with collagen, flavor, and all those comforting health benefits?
In this guide, I’ll share the journey and the step-by-step process to help you make your own golden, rich, and healing chicken bone broth. Whether you want it for sipping, cooking, or just boosting your health, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why Chicken Bone Broth Is So Powerful
Bone broth has been a key part of traditional cooking for centuries. It’s full of nutrients that support your health. It helps with joint health and gut health, thanks to its special mix of compounds.
The Science Behind Bone Broth Benefits
Many people search for a chicken bone broth recipe because they’ve heard it’s packed with health benefits — and science agrees! Chicken bone broth contains collagen, gelatin, and amino acids, all known to support joint health, improve skin elasticity, and boost gut health.
Key health benefits of bone broth:
- Rich in collagen for joint and skin support
- Contains glutamine and glycine for gut healing
- Provides minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus
- May help reduce inflammation and support immune health
When you follow a good chicken bone broth recipe, you’re not just making soup — you’re crafting a nourishing, healing food that supports your body from the inside out.
Chicken Bone Broth in Traditional Cooking Around the World
The chicken bone broth recipe isn’t a modern invention. For centuries, cultures worldwide have simmered chicken bones into rich broths. In China, bone broth is part of traditional medicine, believed to boost energy. In Europe, chicken broth has long been used as a base for healing soups. Even in Latin America, chicken bone soups are passed down through generations as comfort food.
Examples from around the world:
- China: Used in medicinal soups and tonics
- France: The base of many classic sauces (fonds de volaille)
- Mexico: Used in chicken soups like caldo de pollo
- Jewish culture: Found in healing chicken soups, often called “Jewish penicillin”
No matter where you’re from, a chicken bone broth recipe connects you to a long, global tradition of using every part of the animal for nourishment.
Modern Uses for Bone Broth in Everyday Wellness
Today, the chicken bone broth recipe has made a huge comeback, especially in wellness circles. People sip bone broth as a nourishing drink, use it as a base for healthy soups, or even incorporate it into smoothies. Many athletes and health enthusiasts praise its high collagen content for post-workout recovery and joint support.
When you prepare your own chicken bone broth recipe at home, you get full control over the quality and flavor — making it one of the most versatile and nourishing foods in your kitchen.
Want to use your homemade broth in something special? Check out this flavorful Chicken Poblano Soup recipe that pairs beautifully with your broth.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Chicken Bone Broth Recipe
Best Chicken Parts: Feet, Necks, Carcasses, or Whole Bird?
The heart of every chicken bone broth recipe is, of course, the bones. But which parts work best?
Best chicken parts for rich, collagen-packed broth:
- Chicken feet → packed with collagen, boost gelatin
- Chicken necks → full of connective tissue, deepen flavor
- Carcasses or leftover bones → affordable, great for batch cooking
- Whole chicken → adds rich flavor plus meat for other recipes
| Part | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Chicken feet | High collagen, thick gelatin |
| Necks | Flavorful, add body to broth |
| Carcass | Uses leftovers, affordable |
| Whole chicken | Best flavor + extra meat |
For the best chicken bone broth recipe, mix a few types of bones to get the perfect balance of flavor, collagen, and nutrition.
Adding Vegetables, Herbs, and Vinegar for Maximum Flavor
A simple chicken bone broth recipe becomes exceptional when you layer in aromatics. Vegetables, herbs, and a splash of vinegar transform plain broth into something deeply flavorful.
Flavor boosters to add:
- Vegetables: onions, carrots, celery
- Herbs: bay leaves, thyme, parsley
- Spices: peppercorns, garlic, ginger
- Acid: a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals)
These ingredients not only boost taste but also add extra nutrients to your homemade bone broth.
Use it as a base for classic dishes like chicken noodle soup. Need inspiration? Try this Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup recipe for a cozy, healthy meal.
Why Water Quality and Salt Matter
In any chicken bone broth recipe, water matters more than you think. After all, broth is mostly liquid!
Water tips:
- Use filtered water if possible to avoid off-flavors.
- Don’t overfill the pot; cover the bones but leave room for simmering.
- Add salt only at the end — simmering can concentrate saltiness.
High-quality water ensures your broth tastes clean and pure. And salting wisely lets you control the final seasoning without overpowering the delicate chicken flavor.
Tools and Equipment for Making Bone Broth at Home
To make a tasty and healthy chicken bone broth, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. The most crucial tool is either a pressure cooker (like an Instant Pot) or a slow cooker. These tools help in the long simmering needed to get all the good stuff from the bones.
If you like cooking on the stovetop, a big stock pot will do the job. No matter your cooking method, a fine-mesh strainer is key. It helps to separate the broth from the solids once the simmering is done.
- Pressure cooker (e.g., Instant Pot)
- Slow cooker
- Large stock pot
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Glass jars or freezer-safe containers for storage
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Stockpot | Simple, no special gear needed | Needs attention, longer time |
| Slow cooker | Safe, hands-off, deep flavor | Takes 12–24 hours |
| Pressure cooker | Fast (2–4 hours), saves energy | Needs pressure knowledge, equipment |
For your chicken bone broth recipe, choose the method that fits your schedule — they all deliver great results!
If you’re using leftover chicken meat from your broth, learn the perfect way to cook thin sliced chicken breasts for a delicious second meal!
Chicken Bone Broth Recipe (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Preparing the Chicken Bones and Ingredients
The success of your chicken bone broth recipe starts with good prep. Take a few minutes to get everything ready — it’s worth it!
Preparation steps:
- Rinse the bones: Clean chicken feet, necks, or carcasses under cool water.
- Optional roast: For deeper flavor, roast bones at 400°F (200°C) for 20–30 minutes.
- Chop aromatics: Roughly cut onions, carrots, and celery. No need to peel.
- Measure vinegar: Add 1–2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to help pull minerals from the bones.
Once prepped, you’re ready to assemble everything in your pot or cooker.
Cooking Instructions for Stovetop, Slow Cooker, and Instant Pot
Here’s how to make the perfect chicken bone broth recipe with any method:
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Stovetop | Combine ingredients in a large pot, cover with water, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook 12–24 hours. Skim foam occasionally. |
| Slow cooker | Add all ingredients, set on low, and cook 12–24 hours. No need to skim. |
| Pressure cooker | Add ingredients, fill with water to max line, cook on high pressure for 2–4 hours. Quick or natural release. |
Pro tip: Keep the lid slightly ajar on stovetop to allow gentle reduction and richer flavor.
How to Strain, Store, and Freeze Chicken Bone Broth
Once your broth is cooked, it’s time to finish and store it safely.
Straining:
- Pour broth through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean pot or bowl.
- Discard the solids (or compost them).
Storing:
- Refrigerate in glass jars for up to 5 days.
- Skim off solidified fat on top (optional).
Freezing:
- Freeze in airtight containers, silicone molds, or ice cube trays for up to 6 months.
- Label with the date!
With these steps, you’ll always have nourishing, homemade chicken bone broth ready to go.
Straining and Storage
Once you’re done cooking, strain the bone broth through a fine-mesh strainer. This step gets rid of any solids, leaving you with a clear, delicious chicken bone broth. Keep the broth in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for later. This way, you’ll always have a healthy and versatile ingredient ready to use.
Creative Ways to Use Your Bone Broth
Sipping Broth as a Nourishing Drink
One of the simplest ways to enjoy your chicken bone broth recipe is to sip it warm, like a nourishing tea. Many people drink bone broth for its comforting flavor and health benefits, especially on cold days or when recovering from illness.
How to sip bone broth:
- Warm a cup on the stove or microwave.
- Add a pinch of salt or fresh herbs for extra taste.
- Enjoy as a morning drink, afternoon snack, or soothing evening sip.
Sipping broth is one of the easiest ways to enjoy all the collagen and minerals you worked to extract in your homemade broth.
Using Bone Broth in Soups, Stews, and Sauces
Your chicken bone broth recipe is the perfect base for a wide range of dishes. It adds deep flavor and nutrition to soups, stews, and even sauces.
Great uses for bone broth:
- Chicken noodle soup or vegetable soup
- Hearty stews with beef, lamb, or chicken
- Creamy sauces or gravies for extra depth
- Braising meats or vegetables for tender results
Whenever a recipe calls for stock or water, swap in bone broth for a richer, more nourishing dish.
Cooking Grains, Vegetables, or Beans in Bone Broth
Take everyday meals to the next level by using chicken bone broth to cook grains, beans, or veggies. It’s a smart way to boost flavor without adding extra salt or fat.
Try it with:
- Rice, quinoa, or farro
- Lentils, chickpeas, or white beans
- Steamed or sautéed vegetables
Simply replace water with your homemade chicken bone broth recipe in your cooking. You’ll instantly make these simple foods more flavorful and nutrient-packed.
Want a tasty pairing? Serve your steaming cup of broth alongside a fresh Southwest Chicken Salad for a balanced, protein-packed meal.
FAQs :
How do you make chicken bone broth?
To make a great chicken bone broth recipe, simmer chicken bones (like feet, necks, or carcasses) with water, vegetables, herbs, and a splash of vinegar for 12–24 hours. You can use a stovetop, slow cooker, or pressure cooker. Strain, cool, and store. Homemade bone broth is richer and more flavorful than store-bought!
What not to put in bone broth?
Avoid adding cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli or cabbage) or overly salty ingredients to your chicken bone broth recipe. These can make the broth bitter or overly salty. Also skip delicate herbs early on — add them at the end if you want fresh herbal notes.
What are the best bones to use for chicken bone broth?
The best bones for a chicken bone broth recipe are collagen-rich parts like chicken feet, necks, wings, and carcasses. These parts release gelatin, which gives the broth body and a rich, silky texture. Using a mix of meaty and bony parts creates the best flavor.
Why do I feel weird after drinking bone broth?
Some people feel strange after drinking bone broth because it’s rich in amino acids like glutamine, which can affect digestion or trigger mild detox effects. If you’re new to drinking broth, start with small amounts and see how your body responds before increasing.
Conclusion
Making your own chicken bone broth is easy and great for your family’s health. It’s full of benefits, like helping your gut and boosting your immune system. You can use a pressure cooker or slow-cook it for better taste and nutrition.
Adding bone broth to your daily life can change things. It’s rich in minerals, amino acids, and collagen. These can make your bones stronger, skin healthier, and digestion better. Try homemade bone broth for a big health boost.
Starting a healthier life is as simple as making bone broth. This ingredient holds many benefits for your health. It’s good for your gut, joints, and overall well-being. Make bone broth a part of your diet for a healthier you.
Homemade Chicken Bone Broth Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken bones
- 2 carrots roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks roughly chopped
- 1 onion quartered
- 2 garlic cloves smashed
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 bay leaves
- 1 peppercorns
- Water (enough to cover bones)
- Salt (to taste, added at the end)
Instructions
- Prepare the bones: Rinse chicken bones under cool water. Optional: roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–30 minutes for richer flavor.
- Assemble ingredients: Place bones, vegetables, herbs, vinegar, and peppercorns in a large stockpot, slow cooker, or pressure cooker.
- Add water: Fill with filtered water, covering the bones by about 1–2 inches.
- Cook:Stovetop: Bring to boil, reduce to low simmer, cook 12–24 hours.Slow cooker: Set on low, cook 12–24 hours.Pressure cooker: High pressure for 2–4 hours, natural or quick release.
- Strain: Pour broth through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean pot or container. Discard solids
- Cool and store: Let cool. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months. Skim solidified fat on top (optional).
Notes
- For a richer, more gelatinous broth, use chicken feet and necks — they’re packed with collagen.
- Skim the fat after chilling if you want a clearer, lower-fat broth.
- Freeze broth in silicone ice cube trays for easy single-portion use in recipes.
- Add herbs like parsley or thyme only in the last hour to keep their flavor fresh.
- Always cool broth before freezing to avoid freezer damage and preserve flavor.
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