Chicken Broth (For Soup Base)
A flavorful and comforting chicken broth with aromatic vegetables and herbs, perfect as a soup base or for cooking rice and other dishes. Suitable for all chicken lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into pieces; put all pieces except the breast in a kettle with cold water.
- Add the vegetables and seasonings to the kettle.
- Cover and bring to a boil; then simmer for 15 minutes, skimming off any scum that rises to the surface.
- Add the breast pieces; cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Strain the broth and use the cooked chicken as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider roasting the chicken first. You can substitute fresh herbs for parsley if necessary; thyme or dill work well. If you prefer a clearer broth, use a fine mesh strainer when straining. To add depth, include a splash of apple cider vinegar while simmering to enhance the chicken's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken broth makes an excellent base for soups, such as a comforting chicken noodle soup or a hearty vegetable soup. Serve it with crusty bread or use it as a base for dishes like Chicken And Stuffing Strata. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Let the broth cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a little water if it has thickened too much. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broth (For Soup Base) contains roughly 454 calories, with 17g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (127% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 652mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover chicken bones for this broth?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken bones can add even more flavor and nutrients to your broth. Just adjust the cooking time as the bones may need less time to release their flavor compared to raw chicken.
Can I make this broth in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this broth in a slow cooker. Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method allows for a rich, deep flavor to develop over time without the need for constant monitoring.
What can I do with the cooked chicken after making the broth?
The cooked chicken can be shredded and used in various dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, or casseroles. It works wonderfully in recipes like Noodle Chicken Bake, making use of the tender meat in comforting meals.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).