5 Easy Chicken Broth Recipes You'll Love

Discover the Magic of Homemade Chicken Broth

Homemade chicken broth is the cornerstone of many beloved dishes, adding depth, warmth, and nutrition to everything from soups to sauces. Not only does making your own broth allow for a healthier, customizable flavor profile, but it's also an excellent way to use kitchen scraps, reducing waste and enhancing sustainability in your culinary practice.

The Classic Chicken Broth

The traditional method of making chicken broth involves slow simmering ingredients for hours, but here’s a simplified version:

• 1 whole chicken or 2-3 pounds of chicken parts (bones, necks, wings, etc.)
• Water to cover
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig of thyme or parsley (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Peppercorns or ground pepper

Method:

1. In a large pot, add the chicken, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Cover with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Simmer gently for 2-4 hours, skimming any foam that rises to the top.
4. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer.
5. Refrigerate overnight for the fat to congeal, or skim off the fat immediately if you prefer.
6. Your classic chicken broth is ready to use!

💡 Note: Freezing broth in ice cube trays makes it easy to portion out for small recipes!

Instant Pot Bone Broth

If time is of the essence, the Instant Pot can make your life easier while still delivering a rich, flavorful broth:

• 2-3 pounds chicken bones
• 8 cups of water
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (helps draw out minerals)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional herbs like parsley or thyme

Method:

1. Place all ingredients in the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 2 hours.
3. Let the pressure release naturally or quick-release if needed.
4. Strain the broth, then store or use immediately.

⏲ Note: Remember to follow the Instant Pot guidelines for pressure cooking!

Vegetarian Chicken-Like Broth

Not everyone consumes meat, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the comforting nature of “chicken” broth:

• 1 leek, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric (for a slight chicken-like color)
• 10 cups water
• Nutritional yeast for umami flavor (optional)
• Salt and herbs to taste

Method:

1. Sauté onions and leeks until soft.
2. Add remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, then simmer for about 30-45 minutes.
3. Strain the broth to use in any recipe calling for chicken broth.

The addition of turmeric not only provides a lovely color but also boasts anti-inflammatory benefits!

Thai-Inspired Chicken Broth

Spice up your regular broth with flavors inspired by Southeast Asia:

• 1 chicken carcass or 2-3 pounds of chicken bones
• 8 cups of water
• 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
• 2 kaffir lime leaves or zest of one lime
• 1 inch piece of galangal or ginger, sliced
• 1 onion, roughly chopped
• 2 Thai chilies, whole or halved for heat
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• Salt to taste
• Fish sauce, to taste (optional)

Method:

1. Combine all ingredients in a pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 1-2 hours.
3. Strain the broth, discarding solids, and serve or store.

🔥 Note: Adjust the chili heat according to your spice tolerance!

Mediterranean Chicken Broth

Infuse your broth with the aromatic essence of the Mediterranean:

• 1 whole chicken or 2-3 pounds of chicken parts
• Water to cover
• 1 onion, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 1 fennel bulb, quartered
• 1-2 sprigs of rosemary
• 2-3 springs of thyme
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzle (optional)

Method:

1. Roast chicken and vegetables briefly in the oven to enhance flavors.
2. Add everything to a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer for 1-2 hours, strain, and season to taste.

Serving suggestions: Use this broth as a base for risotto, or simply enjoy it with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of herbs, and a fresh squeeze of lemon.

A Final Word

From the simplicity of the classic method to the exotic flavors of Thai and Mediterranean-inspired broths, homemade chicken broth offers an array of possibilities. It’s more than just a base for soups; it’s a way to nourish your body and soul, customize your dishes to your liking, and embrace the joy of homemade cooking.

Can I freeze chicken broth?

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Yes, chicken broth freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

How long can I store chicken broth in the refrigerator?

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Broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to cool it down quickly and keep it in an airtight container.

What are the health benefits of homemade chicken broth?

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Homemade chicken broth contains gelatin, which supports joint health, and amino acids like proline and glycine which are great for skin, digestion, and immune function.