bone broth soup recipe chicken
The Best bone broth soup recipe chicken
Chicken bone broth soup is one of those recipes that feels like a quiet hug for your body—especially when life gets busy or the weather turns cold. I started making it years ago after my kids were little and we were always looking for something warm, nourishing, and that didn’t require a ton of effort. It’s not just soup; it’s a slow-cooked, deeply satisfying meal that’s packed with collagen, minerals, and flavors that make every bite feel like a treat. My family—kids, husband, even the dogs—will eat it straight from the pot, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s comforting in the best way, like a hug from your own kitchen.
What really makes this recipe special is how versatile it is. It’s perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon when you want something easy but still feels special, or it’s the go-to when you’re hosting a small gathering and want to serve something hearty that everyone can enjoy. The broth itself is so rich and flavorful that it’s not just for dinner—breakfast bowls or even a simple lunch can be made with it. Plus, the health benefits are real. Bone broth is loaded with amino acids, glycine, and other nutrients that support gut health, joint comfort, and even skin elasticity. My kids have been eating it since they were toddlers, and I’ve noticed their energy levels stay steadier, their skin looks brighter, and their immune systems seem a little stronger. It’s not just food; it’s a little extra care packed into every spoonful.
Classic Chicken Bone Broth Soup
A comforting, nutrient-rich soup made with tender chicken, rich bone broth, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for soothing cold days and providing essential nutrients.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 lbs chicken bones (with meat attached)
- 1 lb chicken carcass (optional)
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tbsp whole black peppercorns
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 8 cups water
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chicken bouillon powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Place chicken bones, carcass, onion, garlic, celery, carrots, bay leaf, peppercorns, vinegar, and water in a large stockpot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
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2 Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 8 hours (or overnight) for deep flavor. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
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3 Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding solids. Return broth to the pot and simmer for 5 more minutes to concentrate flavors.
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4 In a separate pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
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5 Add chicken pieces, diced tomatoes, bouillon powder, thyme, rosemary, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp).
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6 Pour the hot chicken mixture into the strained broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Add chopped spinach or kale and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
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7 Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let broth steep for 10 minutes. Serve hot.
🔧Equipment
- Large stockpot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander
- Blender (optional, for smoother broth)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Chicken Bone Broth Soup Works
This bone broth chicken soup recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s comforting, easy to prepare ahead, and lets everyone customize their bowl. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions because the flavors deepen as it simmers, making it a reliable go-to that never disappoints. Plus, the nourishing broth and tender chicken keep everyone satisfied without needing extra fuss.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Bone Broth Soup
What is the best way to prepare bone broth for chicken soup?
To make the best bone broth for chicken soup, start by selecting high-quality chicken bones (necks, backs, or carcasses) and adding them to a large pot with enough water to cover them by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for at least 6–8 hours, or up to 12 hours for richer flavor. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during simmering, and strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth before using it in your soup.
How long should I simmer chicken bones for bone broth?
For a deeply flavorful bone broth, simmer chicken bones for at least 6–8 hours on low heat. If possible, extend the simmering time to 12 hours for a richer, more gelatinous broth. Longer simmering breaks down more collagen and minerals, enhancing the soup’s depth of flavor. Avoid boiling vigorously, as it can cause the broth to become cloudy or bitter.
What ingredients should I add to enhance the flavor of chicken bone broth soup?
To boost the flavor of your chicken bone broth soup, consider adding ingredients like onions, garlic, carrots, celery (the classic “holy trinity”), ginger, turmeric, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and a splash of apple cider vinegar (just before straining). For extra richness, add a few slices of leeks, mushrooms, or even a handful of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. A pinch of sea salt can also help balance the broth’s natural flavors.
Can I use store-bought chicken broth instead of homemade bone broth for this recipe?
While store-bought chicken broth can work as a base, it lacks the depth and nutrients of homemade bone broth. For the best results, use homemade bone broth—it’s more flavorful, richer, and packed with collagen and minerals. If you’re short on time, opt for a high-quality, low-sodium bone broth (like a well-made broth from a trusted brand) and adjust seasoning to taste. Avoid ultra-processed broths with added sugars or preservatives.
How do I make sure the soup is creamy without using heavy cream?
To achieve a creamy texture without heavy cream, focus on bone broth richness and starches. After simmering the broth, strain it and reduce it slightly to concentrate flavors. Then, add a thin layer of cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with cold water, stir in, and simmer until thickened. Alternatively, blend a small amount of cooked chicken or veggies (like butternut squash or sweet potatoes) into the broth for a velvety consistency. Another trick is to simmer the soup with a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream for a plant-based option.
