How to Make Homemade Chicken Broth

Making homemade chicken broth from scratch is a culinary skill every home cook should master. This rich, flavorful liquid is the backbone of countless recipes, from soups and stews to gravies and risottos. It is cost-effective and a fantastic way to use leftover chicken bones and vegetable scraps, turning kitchen waste into a nourishing, versatile ingredient.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about making chicken broth at home, including its benefits, essential ingredients, and step-by-step instructions. With just one simple recipe, you can create a delicious, nutrient-packed broth that surpasses store-bought versions in flavor and quality. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Why Make Homemade Chicken Broth?

Better Flavor: Homemade broth has a deeper flavor than store-bought options.

Customizable: You can control the ingredients, adjusting for dietary preferences or flavor profiles.

Nutrient-Rich: Simmering chicken bones and vegetables extracts essential vitamins, minerals, and collagen.

Cost-Effective: Making broth home uses inexpensive ingredients, often leftovers or scraps.

Low Waste: It’s an excellent way to reduce food waste by repurposing chicken carcasses and vegetable peels.

What You’ll Need to Make Homemade Chicken Broth

The beauty of homemade chicken broth lies in its simplicity. Here are the essential components:

Chicken

Use a whole chicken, chicken carcass, or a mix of bones and meat.
Leftover roasted chicken bones work perfectly.

Vegetables

Classic choices include onions, carrots, and celery.
You can also add garlic, leeks, or parsnips for extra flavor.

Herbs and Spices

Common herbs include parsley, thyme, and bay leaves.
Add whole peppercorns and a pinch of salt for seasoning.

Water

Cold water is the base for your broth. The amount depends on the size of your pot.

Optional Additions

Apple cider vinegar (to extract more nutrients from the bones).
Ginger or turmeric for an anti-inflammatory boost.

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Homemade Chicken Broth from Scratch

Here’s the ultimate guide to making a flavorful, nutrient-rich chicken broth in your kitchen.

Ingredients

One whole chicken (about 4 pounds) or 2 pounds of chicken bones
Two large onions, quartered
Two large carrots, roughly chopped
Two celery stalks, roughly chopped
Four garlic cloves smashed (optional)
One bay leaf
Ten whole black peppercorns
Three sprigs of fresh parsley
Three sprigs of fresh thyme
One teaspoon of apple cider vinegar (optional)
10–12 cups cold water
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

If using a whole chicken, rinse it under cold water and remove any giblets. Pat it dry with a paper towel.
Wash and roughly chop the vegetables. No need to peel them; the skins add flavor and color to the broth.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Pot

Place the chicken or chicken bones in a large stockpot.
Add the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, parsley, and thyme.
Pour enough cold water to cover the ingredients by about 2 inches (10–12 cups for most stockpots).

Step 3: Bring to a Simmer

Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a gentle boil.
Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface using a spoon or skimmer.

Step 4: Lower the Heat and Simmer Gently

Reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer gently for 4–6 hours. This slow-cooking process extracts maximum flavor and nutrients.
Ensure the water level remains above the ingredients occasionally, adding more if needed.

Step 5: Strain the Broth

Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
Strain the broth into a large bowl or another pot using a fine-mesh strainer. Discard the solids (bones, vegetables, herbs).

Step 6: Season the Broth

Taste the broth and add salt as needed. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.

Step 7: Store the Broth

Transfer the broth to airtight containers or jars once the broth has cooled completely.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Chicken Broth

Use Cold Water: Starting with cold water allows the flavors to develop gradually as the water heats.
Skim the Foam: Removing impurities ensures a clear, clean-tasting broth.
Don’t Rush: Slow simmering is key to extracting maximum flavor and nutrients.
Avoid Overloading with Salt: Adding salt later is better, especially if you plan to use the broth in recipes that already call for seasoning.
Freeze in Portions: Store broth in ice cube trays or small containers for convenient portion sizes.

How to Use Homemade Chicken Broth

Homemade chicken broth is a versatile ingredient that enhances countless recipes. Here are some ideas:

Soups and Stews

Use it as the base for classic chicken noodle soup, creamy potato soup, or hearty beef stew.

Grains and Rice

Cook rice, quinoa, or couscous in chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor.

Sauces and Gravies

Use it to make velvety gravies, pan sauces, or reductions.

Pasta and Dumplings

Cook pasta or dumplings directly in chicken broth for added richness.

Sipping Broth

Enjoy it as a comforting drink during cold weather or when you feel under the weather.

Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Chicken Broth

Homemade chicken broth isn’t just flavorful; it’s also packed with nutrients:

Rich in Collagen: Helps improve joint health, skin elasticity, and digestion.
High in Vitamins and Minerals: Includes calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus.
Low in Calories: A healthy addition to meals without adding excessive calories.
Boosts Immunity: Warm, nutrient-rich broth can help soothe colds and flu symptoms.

Common Questions About Homemade Chicken Broth

Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken bones and scraps are perfect for making broth.

How Long Should I Simmer the Broth?

Simmer for at least 4 hours, but aim for 6–8 hours for the richest flavor.

Can I Make Broth in a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Both methods work well:

Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 8–10 hours.
Instant Pot: Pressure cook on high for 2 hours.

How Do I Store Broth?

Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make homemade chicken broth from scratch, you can elevate your cooking with this versatile, nutrient-packed ingredient. By following the simple recipe, you’ll create a broth that’s flavorful and far superior to anything store-bought.

Not only is homemade chicken broth a delicious addition to soups, stews, and sauces, but it’s also an excellent way to reduce kitchen waste and nourish your body. So grab your ingredients, set aside time, and enjoy the rewards of making this timeless kitchen essential.

Happy cooking! 🍲