chicken bone broth recipe crock pot
The Best chicken bone broth recipe crock pot
Okay, so let me tell you why I’m always reaching for my crock pot when I need a quick, comforting meal that doesn’t take forever to prepare. Chicken bone broth is one of those things that feels like a no-brainer—simple enough to make from scratch, but packed with flavor and nutrition that makes it worth every second of the slow cook. I started making it years ago when my kids were little, and honestly, it became a staple in our house because it’s so versatile. You can use it for soups, stews, marinades, even as a base for sauces, and it’s always there waiting when you need something hearty without the fuss of chopping everything fresh every night. My family loves it because it’s warm and soothing, especially after a long day, and the kids actually eat it straight from the pot sometimes—no fussing about “it’s just broth.” It’s also one of those things that feels special for bigger occasions, whether it’s a family dinner or just a lazy weekend when you want something nourishing but not too much work.
The health benefits are what really sell it for me. Bone broth is loaded with collagen, minerals like calcium and magnesium, and amino acids that help with digestion and joint health. I’ve noticed my kids’ skin looks brighter after they’ve had a big bowl, and my husband swears it helps with his digestion when he’s feeling a little off. It’s not just good for you, though—it’s also great for the budget. Buying a carton of store-bought broth is convenient, but it’s usually full of preservatives and way more expensive than making your own. Plus, there’s something satisfying about the process of simmering bones all day, even if it does take a while. It’s a project that feels rewarding, and when you finally have that rich, savory liquid simmering in the crock pot, it’s hard not to get excited. My family loves it year-round, but it’s especially nice during colder months when we’re all craving something warm and comforting. It’s not just a recipe—it’s a habit that keeps us healthy and happy, whether we’re using it daily or saving it for a special occasion.
Crock Pot Chicken Bone Broth
A rich, flavorful bone broth made with chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs, perfect for soups, stews, and sauces. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 lbs chicken bones (necks, backs, or carcasses)
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 10 cups water
- 1 cup chicken feet (for extra gelatin)
- 1 cup parsley stems
- 1 cup celery leaves
- 1 cup onion skins
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Add chicken bones, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer for 15 minutes to remove impurities.
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2 Drain the broth through a colander into your Crock Pot, reserving the vegetables. Rinse the pot and repeat the process if using additional ingredients like chicken feet or onion skins.
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3 Add the reserved vegetables and apple cider vinegar to the Crock Pot. Pour in the reserved broth from the pot. Top with any optional ingredients like parsley stems or celery leaves.
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4 Set the Crock Pot to Low and cook for 8 hours. For a richer broth, increase the cook time to 12 hours. Stir occasionally if needed.
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5 Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into clean containers. Discard solids. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
🔧Equipment
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
- Large pot (for initial boiling)
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Chicken Bone Broth Works
This chicken bone broth recipe in the crock pot is always a lifesaver for me—it’s simple enough to make ahead of time while I handle the rest of the meal prep, and the rich, savory flavor makes it perfect for anything from soups and stews to marinades and even just a simple bowl of broth to soothe a family’s stomach. It’s especially handy during gatherings, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner, because it keeps everyone happy and full without needing extra effort. Plus, the bones break down into nutrients that make it extra nourishing for the whole household.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chicken Bone Broth
What is the best way to prepare a rich and flavorful chicken bone broth in a crock pot?
To make a deeply flavorful crock pot chicken bone broth, start by using a mix of chicken bones (necks, backs, wings, and legs), along with some whole chicken pieces. Soak the bones in cold water for 30 minutes to remove impurities, then rinse. In the crock pot, combine the bones, 8-10 cups of water, and 2-3 bay leaves, 3-4 whole garlic cloves, 2-3 celery stalks (chopped), 3-4 carrots (chopped), and a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary. Cook on low for 8-12 hours, then strain and simmer the broth for 15-20 minutes to deepen the flavor.
How long should I cook the chicken bone broth in the slow cooker?
For the best results, cook the broth on low for 8-12 hours or on high for 6-8 hours. Longer cooking times enhance the collagen and gelatin content, making the broth thicker and more nutritious. If you’re using whole chickens, ensure they’re fully submerged in the liquid to avoid burning.
Can I use leftovers from a roasted chicken to make broth?
Absolutely! Scrape off the meat from a leftover roasted chicken, save the bones and carcass, and use them directly in your crock pot broth. Remove any excess fat or skin, then follow the same steps as above. This method saves time and reduces waste.
What are some essential ingredients to add for extra flavor?
For a more aromatic broth, consider adding: – Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley (1-2 sprigs per pot). – Aromatics: 3-4 whole garlic cloves, 2-3 celery stalks, and 3-4 carrots (chopped). – Spices: A pinch of black peppercorns, star anise, or a bay leaf. – Seasoning: A splash of apple cider vinegar (helps draw out minerals) or a dash of soy sauce (for umami). – Optional: A few whole black peppercorns or a bay leaf for depth.
How do I strain and store the chicken bone broth for later use?
After cooking, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove bones and herbs. For extra clarity, simmer it for 15-20 minutes to reduce it slightly. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for 3 months. Thawing frozen broth in the fridge overnight ensures even cooking when reheating.
