Ingredients
2–3 lbs chicken bones (carcass, wings, feet, drumsticks)
10 cups filtered water
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 large onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 garlic cloves, smashed
2 bay leaves
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1–2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Bones: If using raw bones, roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes to enhance flavor.
Combine Ingredients: In a large stockpot, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, add the bones, vegetables, apple cider vinegar, and seasonings.
Add Water: Pour in the filtered water until the bones are fully submerged.
Simmer:
Stovetop: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer for 12-24 hours.
Slow Cooker: Set to low and cook for 18-24 hours.
Instant Pot: Set to high pressure for 2-3 hours, then allow natural release.
Skim Foam: Occasionally skim off any foam that rises to the top for a cleaner broth.
Strain: Remove bones and vegetables using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
Cool & Store: Let the broth cool before transferring it to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.
Notes
For a gelatinous broth: Use chicken feet and wings, which are high in collagen.
Flavor Boosters: Add ginger, turmeric, or miso for extra depth and health benefits.
Storage Tip: Freeze in silicone ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Uses: Sip as a warm drink, use as a base for soups, or cook grains like rice and quinoa with it.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-24 hours
- Category: Broth / Soup Base
- Cuisine: Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 40 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 1.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg