Chicken Broth
A comforting homemade chicken broth infused with simple vegetables, perfect as a base for soups or enjoyed on its own for nourishing warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and cut the hen into frying pieces.
- Salt and pepper the chicken pieces.
- Place the chicken in a large saucepan and cover with water.
- Bring to a boil and cook on stovetop until the meat is done, about 1 hour, or 45 minutes in a pressure cooker.
- Remove the chicken from the pot.
- Discard the celery and carrots.
- Strain the broth to remove any solids.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves while cooking. If you have leftover vegetables, feel free to toss them in for added depth. If you prefer a leaner broth, remove the skin from the chicken before cooking. You can also substitute the hen with a rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy the chicken broth as a warm soup base or use it for cooking grains like rice or quinoa. It pairs beautifully with Quick Cucumber Slices for a refreshing side. You can also use it as a base for sauces or stews, enhancing the flavors of your favorite dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the broth in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broth contains roughly 170 calories, with 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (103% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 903mg per serving (39% 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 chicken bones instead of whole chicken?
Yes, using chicken bones will create a delicious broth. Just ensure to include some meat for flavor—adding leftover bones from a roast chicken works great.
How can I make this broth more flavorful?
To enhance the broth's flavor, consider adding aromatics like onion, garlic, or herbs such as parsley and thyme. Roasting the chicken before adding it to the pot can also deepen the taste.
Can I make this broth in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply place the chicken and vegetables in a slow cooker, cover with water, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender. This method allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
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).