Homemade Chicken Broth

Name: Homemade Chicken Broth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 8 cups
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken or 2-3 lbs of chicken bones; 2 large carrots, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 large onion, quartered; 3 garlic cloves, smashed; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon black peppercorns; Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley); Salt to taste; Water (about 12 cups)

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love making homemade chicken broth. There’s something incredibly satisfying about simmering fresh ingredients together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Not only does it elevate countless dishes, but the aroma that fills my kitchen is simply delightful. I often make a large batch, as it freezes wonderfully and can be used in soups, sauces, or even as a base for risottos. Every time I make this broth, it's a reminder of how simple ingredients can create something so comforting and nourishing.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:17:18.912Z

Making homemade chicken broth has been a ritual in my kitchen for years. I’ve found that using a mixture of chicken parts, including bones, adds depth to the flavor that store-bought versions just can't replicate. I love to toss in fresh vegetables and herbs, which not only enhances the taste but also contribute beneficial nutrients. It's a fantastic way to utilize leftover chicken carcasses and reduce waste while enhancing my meals.

As I simmer the broth, I make sure to skim off any foam that rises to the surface. This little tip helps achieve a clearer stock, giving it a beautiful presentation when served. I often experiment by adding different herbs depending on what I have on hand, and I urge anyone to do the same. The versatility of this broth is truly amazing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, robust flavor that enhances every dish
Simple ingredients that lead to a comforting outcome
Great way to use leftover chicken and reduce waste

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of homemade chicken broth lies in its simplicity. The base of the broth, which consists of chicken, vegetables like carrots and celery, and aromatic components like garlic and onion, works synergistically to create a rich flavor. While a whole chicken is ideal, using leftover bones is a fantastic way to reduce waste. For an even deeper taste, you might want to roast the bones in the oven beforehand until golden brown; this adds an extra layer of flavor that truly enhances your broth.

Each vegetable serves a purpose: carrots contribute sweetness, celery adds earthiness, and onions bring depth. The addition of herbs, such as thyme and parsley, provides a fresh, aromatic note. If you’re short on time, feel free to swap fresh herbs with dried ones—they'll still impart flavor, though fresh does make a noticeable difference in the final product.

The Simmering Process

Simmering is crucial in developing the broth's rich flavor profile. Once you've brought your pot to a boil, immediately reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. If you see large bubbles popping, it indicates the heat is too high, and you risk boiling away the flavor. Allow the broth to cook uncovered for at least two hours, though four hours will yield even deeper flavors and richer nutrients. During this time, give it a occasional stir to ensure even cooking.

Be mindful of the foam that collects on the surface during simmering. Skimming this off helps to clarify the broth, making it visually appealing and improving the taste by removing impurities. Keep a small ladle handy to easily scoop away any foam, which typically forms in the first 30 minutes of cooking.

Storage Tips for Longevity

Homemade chicken broth is remarkably versatile and stores well. After straining it, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight jars or containers. It’s a good idea to leave some space at the top of containers if you plan to freeze, as liquids expand when frozen. Broth can last up to a week in the fridge but can also be frozen for several months, giving you a perfect base for soups or sauces at a moment's notice.

When reheating frozen broth, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place the sealed container in a bowl of warm water. If you’ve frozen it in smaller portions using ice cube trays, you can easily pop out what you need for daily cooking, minimizing waste and ensuring that you always have a warm, comforting broth on hand.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your homemade chicken broth:

Ingredients for Chicken Broth

1 whole chicken or 2-3 lbs of chicken bones
2 large carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 large onion, quartered
3 garlic cloves, smashed
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley)
Salt to taste
Water (about 12 cups)

Make sure to adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking to your personal taste.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious homemade chicken broth:

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large pot, add your chicken or chicken bones along with the chopped carrots, celery, quartered onion, and smashed garlic.

Add Water and Seasonings

Pour in about 12 cups of water to cover the ingredients. Add the bay leaf, black peppercorns, and any fresh herbs you plan to use.

Simmer the Broth

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer, cover, and let cook for at least 2 hours. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

Strain the Broth

After simmering, remove the pot from heat. Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain the broth into a large bowl, discarding the solids.

Cool and Store

Let the broth cool slightly before transferring it to jars. Seal and store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Now you have a rich homemade chicken broth ready to enhance your favorite recipes!

Pro Tips

For an even richer broth, roast the chicken bones in the oven before adding them to the pot for simmering. This will deepen the flavor significantly.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with additional flavorings by adding spices or other aromatics. For instance, a couple of sprigs of fresh rosemary or a few slices of fresh ginger can infuse the broth with unique flavors. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, which can give your broth a subtle kick perfect for spicing up soups and stews.

If you're aiming for a lighter version, using just a few chicken bones along with more vegetables can create a clear, flavorful broth that's perfect for delicate dishes. Alternatively, adding a splash of apple cider vinegar before simmering can help extract more minerals from the bones, enriching the nutrient profile of your broth.

Common Troubleshooting

If your broth tastes bland after simmering, it likely needs more seasoning or additional time on the heat. A good rule of thumb is to taste midway through cooking; you can always adjust the seasoning as it develops. If you find your broth too salty, you can balance it by adding a few extra diced vegetables and simmering again for about 30 minutes.

In case the broth appears cloudy, this is usually due to impurities or high heat. Making sure to skim the foam regularly during simmering and controlling your heat to just a gentle bubble will help achieve a clearer broth. If you've accidentally oversalted, adding diced potatoes can absorb some of the excess salt—just remember to remove them before serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought chicken for the broth?

Yes, using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!

→ How long can I store homemade broth?

In the refrigerator, it lasts up to a week, but you can freeze it for several months.

→ Can I adjust the flavors?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preference.

→ Is it necessary to strain the broth?

Yes, straining will remove the solids and give you a smooth, clear broth.