Chicken broth is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. In this article, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of making delicious chicken broth from scratch, a whole chicken or chicken carcass. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
1. How To Make Chicken Broth
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (skin on) or chicken carcass
- 2-3 carrots, chopped
- 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme (optional)
- 8-10 cups of water
Instructions
Place the chicken or chicken carcass in a large pot then add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, black peppercorns, and thyme (if using) to the pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a low simmer.
Simmer the broth for 2-3 hours, skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
Once the broth is done simmering, remove the chicken and shred any meat that remains. Set aside for later use. You can refer to shredded chicken recipes
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids and impurities.
Allow the broth to cool, then adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt or pepper as needed
Serve immediately or transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 6 months.
2. What To Do With Chicken Broth
Make soup: Use chicken broth as a base for soup, such as chicken noodle soup, chicken and rice soup, or chicken vegetable soup.
Cook grains: Use chicken broth instead of water when cooking grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous to add flavor and richness.
Braise meat: Use chicken broth to braise meat, such as chicken thighs or pork shoulder, for added flavor and tenderness.
Make gravy: Use chicken broth as the base for gravy, such as for chicken pot pie or Thanksgiving turkey.
Add to sauces: Use chicken broth in sauces, such as for pasta dishes or stir-fries, to add depth of flavor.
Use in casseroles: Use chicken broth in casseroles, such as for chicken and rice casserole or green bean casserole.
Use in stuffing: Use chicken broth as the liquid in stuffing, such as for Thanksgiving stuffing or stuffed mushrooms.
Drink it: Sip chicken broth on its own as a warm and comforting drink, especially when feeling under the weather.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
3.1. Is Chicken Broth Just The Water From Boiled Chicken?
Chicken broth is not just the water from boiled chicken, although it can be a component. Chicken broth is typically made by simmering chicken bones, meat, and vegetables in water, along with herbs and spices, to create a flavorful liquid that can be used as a base for soups, stews, and other dishes.
The bones and meat used in broth provide collagen and gelatin, which help to give the broth its characteristic texture and mouthfeel. While the process of making broth may involve boiling chicken, it is not simply the water left over after boiling chicken.
3.2. Is Chicken Broth & Chicken Stock the Same Thing?
Chicken broth and chicken stock are similar, but not exactly the same thing.
Chicken broth is typically made from simmering chicken meat and vegetables in water, often with added herbs and spices, for a shorter period of time. It is lighter in color and flavor than chicken stock and has a thinner consistency.
On the other hand, chicken stock is typically made from simmering chicken bones and connective tissue, along with vegetables and herbs, in water for a longer period of time. This results in a richer and more concentrated flavor, as well as a thicker, gelatinous texture when cooled.
While both can be used in similar ways in recipes, chicken broth is often used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, while chicken stock is often used as a base for gravies, risottos, and other dishes that require a more intense flavor.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make a delicious and nutritious chicken broth that is free from artificial flavors and preservatives. Plus, making your own broth is a great way to reduce food waste and use up leftover ingredients.
