Name: Homemade Chicken Broth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 3 to 5 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces ((or one large whole chicken)); 2 tablespoons oil; 1 large yellow onion ((roughly chopped)); 3 large carrots ((roughly chopped)); 3 ribs celery ((roughly chopped)); 1 medium leek ((roughly chopped)); 2 teaspoons kosher salt ((or sea salt, plus more to taste)); 3 to 4 cloves garlic ((chopped)); 1 teaspoon dried thyme ((see note)); 1 teaspoon dried rosemary ((see note)); 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns ((or 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground)); cold water ((enough to cover the ingredients))

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I’ve always believed that there’s something truly magical about a pot of warming broth simmering on the stove. When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a rich and flavorful Homemade Chicken Broth. It takes me back to my childhood, where I would watch my grandmother tirelessly prepare her signature broth, filling the kitchen with the most incredible aromas. The process felt like a ritual, a way of nurturing not just ourselves, but also the love we shared over meals. Every time I prepare this Homemade Chicken Broth, I am reminded of those cozy family gatherings, the laughter, and the stories shared around the dinner table. It’s a dish that embodies warmth and togetherness, and it’s perfect for any occasion, be it a chilly winter evening or just a simple weekday dinner.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
90 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
100 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Saucepan

What’s Great About This Homemade Chicken Broth

It’s All About the Flavor

There’s an unparalleled depth of flavor in Homemade Chicken Broth that you just can’t find in store-bought versions. The ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a rich base that elevates any soup or dish you might make.

Health Benefits Galore

Not only is it delicious, but Homemade Chicken Broth is also packed with nutrients. From the vitamins in the vegetables to the proteins extracted from the chicken, it’s a nourishing option that warms you from the inside out. It’s said to support immune health, especially during chilly seasons.

Control Ingredients and Flavors

Making your own broth allows you complete control over what goes in. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables, ensuring it suits your taste perfectly. Want to add a bit more garlic? Go for it! Prefer a hint of lemon? Add it!

Perfect for Meal Prep

A big batch of Homemade Chicken Broth can be made and stored for various meals throughout the week. Freeze it in portions, and you’ll have a comforting base ready whenever you need it!

It’s an Easy, Therapeutic Process

Many find the act of making broth to be a therapeutic process. It’s simply about allowing the ingredients to simmer and develop flavors over time. It’s a moment where you can step away, relax, and enjoy the kitchen.

Great for Any Occasion

This broth is incredibly versatile; you can use it in soups, risottos, or just sip it as is. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or using it to make a quick meal, it fits seamlessly into any occasion.

Everything You Need for Homemade Chicken Broth

The ingredients in Homemade Chicken Broth are simple but powerful. At the core, you have your choice of chicken—a crucial player for depth. Each vegetable adds its own unique flavor, and together they create a rich, aromatic broth that’s perfect for any recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 to 5 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (or one large whole chicken): The more chicken you use, the stronger the broth!
2 tablespoons oil: For browning the chicken, which adds a lovely depth of flavor.
1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped: A staple ingredient for any broth, providing a sweet base.
3 large carrots, roughly chopped: Adding sweetness and color.
3 celery ribs, roughly chopped: Contributes to the aromatic base.
1 medium leek, roughly chopped: Adds a delicate onion-like flavor.
2 teaspoons kosher salt or sea salt: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
3 to 4 cloves garlic, chopped: For that wonderful aromatic punch.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb for broth.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant, earthy note.
2 bay leaves: Essential for flavor depth.
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns or 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground: Helps keep the broth clearer.
cold water: Enough to cover your ingredients, typically around 12 cups.

Instructions for Homemade Chicken Broth

Preparing Homemade Chicken Broth is a straightforward process that rewards you with incredible flavor. Let’s take a step-by-step journey through the process to ensure your broth turns out perfect every time.

In a large Dutch oven or stock pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken pieces in batches to brown them on all sides. This step adds a rich, golden color and enhances the flavor. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Next, add the onion, carrots, celery, and leek to the pot. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until just barely softened. This softening process helps to release their flavors into the broth.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, allowing its aromatic goodness to fill the air.
Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, alongside the thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and peppercorns. This is where the magic begins!
Add enough cold water to completely cover the ingredients, usually around 12 cups. Bring everything to a boil, making sure to scrape off any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor!
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 90 minutes. Occasionally skim off any foam that forms on the surface; this will keep your broth clear and clean.
You can let it simmer longer if you wish, but be sure to remove the chicken so that it doesn’t dry out from overcooking. At the end of the cooking time, taste your broth and add more salt if desired.
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to separate the solids from the liquid. This step ensures a silky, smooth broth.
If you’d like to remove excess fat, place the broth in a large bowl and let it cool completely. Chill overnight in the refrigerator, and the layer of fat will solidify on top, making it easy to scrape off.
Keep your chicken broth stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the broth in freezer-safe containers, where it will last for up to 3 months. Congratulations, you’ve made approximately 2 quarts of delicious broth!

Things Worth Knowing

Cool Down: Always let your broth cool before refrigerating to prevent bacteria growth.
Storage: Store in airtight containers to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Flavor Development: The longer you simmer, the richer the flavor. Don’t rush this step!
Skimming: Skimming off the foam while cooking helps achieve a clearer broth.
Recipe Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and veggies for unique flavors.

Tips and Tricks about Homemade Chicken Broth

When it comes to perfecting your Homemade Chicken Broth, a few tips can make all the difference. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:

Storage: Properly store leftovers in airtight containers for up to four days in the refrigerator.
Freezing: You can freeze this broth for up to three months. Consider using ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Pairing: This broth pairs wonderfully with noodles, rice, or veggies. Use it as a base for soups or stews.
Enhancing Flavor: For an extra flavor boost, roast your chicken and veggies before adding them to the pot.
Using Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover chicken from a previous meal, throw it in for added flavor.

Accompaniments for Homemade Chicken Broth

Serving Homemade Chicken Broth can be as creative as you want. Here are some suggestions for pairing and enjoying your delicious broth:

With Noodles: Add some cooked noodles for a hearty meal.
Rice: Serve it over fluffy rice to soak up all that rich broth.
Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
For Lunch: Enjoy it as a light lunch with a simple side salad.
Comforting Dinner: Serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting dinner.
Storage Tips: Store in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for longer use.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to enhance the flavor of your Homemade Chicken Broth. Just throw in the bones and any scraps you have left over after making a meal. It will add depth and richness to your broth, and it’s a great way to reduce waste in the kitchen.

You can store your Homemade Chicken Broth in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it in freezer-safe containers. It should last for about three months in the freezer. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain its quality!

If you find that your Homemade Chicken Broth is too salty, you can balance it out by adding a sliced potato to the pot while the broth simmers. The potato will absorb some of the excess salt. Just remember to remove the potato before serving! Adding more water can also help dilute the saltiness, but this may also dilute the flavor.

Conclusion

The process of making Homemade Chicken Broth is not just about creating a base for your soups and stews; it’s about creating a cozy, comforting experience in your kitchen. The rich flavors and nourishing ingredients come together to create something truly special. I encourage you to try making it yourself. You’ll discover the satisfaction that comes from crafting a delicious broth that warms not just your body, but also your heart.