Go Back
Chicken broth recipe

Homemade Chicken Broth

A comforting and flavorful chicken broth made from fresh ingredients, perfect for soups, stews, and more.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 cups
Course: Base, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 40
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Essential Ingredients
  • 1 whole Chicken (3-4 pounds) Provides the base flavor and richness.
  • 2 large Onions, quartered Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 3 medium Carrots, chopped Brings a hint of sweetness and color.
  • 3 stalks Celery, chopped Adds a fresh, aromatic flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, smashed Enhances the broth with a robust taste.
  • 1 leaf Bay leaf Adds a subtle herbal note.
  • 1 teaspoon Black peppercorns Gives a gentle heat.
  • Salt to taste Salt Added towards the end of cooking for the best flavor.
  • 12 cups Water Needed to extract all the flavors.

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Fine-mesh sieve
  • airtight containers

Method
 

  1. Gather your ingredients. Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot. Add the quartered onions, chopped carrots, chopped celery, smashed garlic cloves, bay leaf, and black peppercorns.
  2. Pour in 12 cups of water, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Cover and let the broth simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add salt to taste.
  5. After simmering, carefully remove the chicken pieces and vegetables from the pot using a slotted spoon. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot or large bowl.
  6. Allow the broth to cool completely. Transfer it to airtight containers for storage.
  7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Homemade chicken broth is a versatile base for soups, stews, and sauces. Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables and herbs to customize the flavor.