How to Make Nourishing Chicken Bone Broth Recipe: The Best Homemade Recipe Using an Instant Pot or Slow Cooker

Chicken bone broth recipe is more than just a comforting drink—it’s a powerhouse of nutrients and a versatile ingredient for soups, stews, and gravies. If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken bone broth at home, this article is your go-to guide. Whether you’re using an instant pot or a slow cooker, crafting your own homemade chicken bone broth is simple, rewarding, and far superior to store-bought versions.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to make bone broth, share the benefits of chicken bone broth, and provide step-by-step instructions to ensure you get a rich, flavorful result every time.

What is Chicken Bone Broth Recipe and Why is it Beneficial?

Chicken bone broth is a nutrient-dense liquid made by simmering chicken bones and connective tissues over an extended period. Unlike standard chicken broth, which is lighter and cooks for a shorter duration, bone broth is made by allowing bones to slow cook for 12-24 hours. This slow cooking process pulls out collagen, minerals, and amino acids, resulting in a nourishing chicken bone broth.

The benefits of consuming bone broth are vast:

• Rich in Collagen – A protein that supports skin elasticity and joint health.
• Gut Health – The gelatin found in bone broths helps repair the gut lining.
• Immune Boosting – Minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus contribute to overall health.
• Joint Support – The collagen and amino acids assist with reducing inflammation.

Drinking delicious chicken bone broth regularly can improve digestion, strengthen immunity, and even reduce joint pain. It’s an essential ingredient in chicken soup, adding depth and flavor while boosting nutrition.

How is Chicken Bone Broth Recipe Different from Regular Broth or Stock?

One common question is the difference between broth and stock. Chicken stock and Chicken bone broth recipe are often used interchangeably, but they differ slightly in preparation.

• Chicken Broth – Made by simmering chicken meat (like thighs or a whole chicken) for a few hours. It’s light and aromatic.
• Chicken Stock – Made by simmering chicken bones and vegetables for 4-6 hours, resulting in a thicker liquid.
• Chicken Bone Broth – Simmered for 12-24 hours (or pressure-cooked for shorter periods), extracting deep nutrients, collagen, and healthy fats.

Bone broth is a great choice for those seeking maximum health benefits. It provides a richer flavor, denser nutritional content, and supports gut health far better than regular broth or stock.

Essential Ingredients for Making Chicken Bone Broth Recipe

To make bone broth, you’ll need the following:

• Chicken Bones – Leftover chicken carcass, wings, or roasted chicken bones.
• Chicken Feet – These provide extra collagen and richness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Crucial for breaking down bones and extracting nutrients.
• Vegetables – Onions, carrots, and celery for flavor.
• Garlic and Herbs – Thyme, rosemary, and parsley enhance the broth’s flavor.
• Water – Enough to cover the bones by 2 inches.

The vinegar (often apple cider vinegar) plays a vital role in ensuring the bones release as much collagen and minerals as possible.

How to MakeChicken Bone Broth Recipe in an Instant Pot

Using an instant pot to Chicken bone broth recipe drastically reduces cooking time while preserving flavor and nutrients.

Instructions:

1. Add Chicken Bones – Place chicken bones and vegetables into the instant pot.
2. Add the Apple Cider Vinegar – Pour in 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
3. Fill with Water – Cover the bones by at least 2 inches.
4. Set the Instant Pot – Select the pressure cook setting and set for 2 hours.
5. Natural Release – Allow pressure to release naturally for 30 minutes.
6. Strain the Broth – Remove solids and pour the broth into a pot.

This instant pot chicken bone broth method ensures you get flavorful, nourishing chicken bone broth in just a few hours.

Slow Cooker Chicken Bone Broth Recipe Method (Easy and Hassle-Free)

The slow cooker method is traditional and straightforward. It requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days.

Instructions:

1. Add Bones and Vegetables – Place chicken bones into the slow cooker along with onions, carrots, and celery.
2. Pour in Vinegar and Water – Add apple cider vinegar and enough water to cover.
3. Set the Cooker – Slow cook for 12-24 hours.
4. Strain and Store – Remove bones and pour the broth to make soups, stews, or enjoy as a drink.

This slow cooker method allows the broth to simmer gently, enhancing flavor and extracting every ounce of collagen.

Why Vinegar is Crucial for the Best Chicken Bone Broth Recipe

Vinegar helps to break down bones, releasing nutrients like calcium and collagen. Without vinegar, your bone broth may lack richness and nutritional value.

Adding apple cider vinegar enhances the broth’s flavor and boosts its health properties.

Tips for Using Chicken Bones and Leftover Carcasses

Leftover chicken carcass or roasted chicken bones are ideal for making your own bone broth. You can freeze bones until ready to use.

How to Store Chicken Bone Broth Properly

Pour the bone broth into glass jars or ice cube trays for easy use. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to six months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Your Own Bone Broth

• Not Adding Vinegar – Essential for nutrient extraction.
• Overcrowding the Pot – Too many bones prevent proper simmering.
• Short Cooking Time – A good chicken bone broth takes time.

The Benefits of Consuming Bone Broth Regularly

Drinking chicken bone broth daily supports gut health, improves skin elasticity, and strengthens immunity. Bone broth is made to nourish and heal, making it a staple in many households.

How to Make Chicken Bone Broth Taste Better

Sometimes, Chicken bone broth recipe can taste bland if not prepared correctly. Enhancing the flavor while keeping it nutritious is simple.

Tips for Flavor Enhancement:

• Roast the Bones – Roasting chicken bones and vegetables before simmering deepens the flavor.
• Add Herbs and Spices – Bay leaves, thyme, and garlic bring warmth and complexity.
• Include Chicken Meat – Simmering a whole chicken or chicken parts alongside bones adds richness.
• Use Salt Sparingly – Salt after the broth is made to control sodium levels.

Serving Suggestions

Use the broth as a base for Caldo de Pollo Recipe for a rich and nourishing chicken soup.Incorporate it into a creamy casserole like Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole to elevate the flavors.Create unique dishes such as Crockpot Stuffed Peppers for a fun twist

Can You Use Raw Chicken Bones to Make Broth?

Yes, you can use raw chicken bones, but roasting them first gives better results. Raw bones provide a lighter, more delicate broth, while roasted bones create a darker, richer flavor.

To prepare:

• Place raw chicken bones on a baking sheet.
• Roast at 400°F for 30 minutes until browned.
• Use them directly in your instant pot or slow cooker.

Roasted or uncooked chicken bones both yield great results, depending on the flavor you prefer.

Can You Reuse Chicken Bones for Multiple Batches of Broth?

While chicken bones can be reused, the nutrient content diminishes with each batch. The first batch provides the highest levels of collagen and minerals.

For the second batch:

• Add fresh vegetables and vinegar.
• Simmer for a shorter time (6-8 hours).

The flavor will be lighter but still useful for soups and stews.

How Long Should You Simmer Bone Broth?

Simmering times vary depending on the method:

• Instant Pot – Pressure cook for 2 hours.
• Slow Cooker – Slow cook for 12-24 hours.
• Stovetop – Simmer in a stock pot for 12-18 hours.

Longer simmering pulls more collagen from chicken bones, resulting in a richer, healthier broth.

Can You Freeze Chicken Bone Broth?

Absolutely! Freezing chicken bone broth preserves its nutrients and flavor for up to 6 months.

Freezing Tips:

• Use Ice Cube Trays – Pour broth into a pot or ice cube trays for small portions.
• Leave Space for Expansion – Broth expands when frozen, so leave room at the top of containers.
• Label and Date – Always mark your broth to track its freshness.

Frozen broth cubes can be added directly to recipes, making them convenient for daily use.

Is Chicken Bone Broth Good for Weight Loss?

Yes! Chicken bone broth is low in calories but high in protein and nutrients, making it an excellent addition to weight loss diets.

Benefits for Weight Loss:

• Keeps You Full – The collagen and gelatin promote satiety.
• Boosts Metabolism – Rich in amino acids that support fat burning.
• Hydrating – Contains electrolytes that keep you energized.

Consuming bone broth as part of your daily routine can help reduce cravings and improve overall health

What Can You Make with Chicken Bone Broth?

Chicken bone broth is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas:

• Chicken Noodle Soup – Use broth to make a classic chicken noodle soup.
• Stews and Gravy – Adds richness and depth to any stew.
• Cook Grains – Substitute water with broth when making rice or quinoa.
• Smoothies – Add a nutrient boost to smoothies (it’s flavorless when cold!).

By incorporating broth as well into various recipes, you increase their nutrient content and flavor.

How to Reheat and Serve Chicken Bone Broth

Chicken bone broth can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Best Practices:

• Stovetop – Heat in a stock pot over medium heat until simmering.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe mug, heating for 2-3 minutes.
• Avoid Boiling – Overheating can degrade nutrients, so gently warm your broth.

Serve it as a warm, comforting drink or use it in cooking.

Can You Overcook Bone Broth?

Yes, but it’s rare. Overcooking can make the broth taste bitter. This happens if the bones are simmered too long without enough water or vinegar.

Prevent Overcooking by:

• Topping up with water during long simmers.
• Keeping heat low and steady.

If your broth is typically bitter, shorten the cooking time or reduce the vinegar.

Final Thoughts on Making Your Own Bone Broth

Making your own bone broth at home is simple, cost-effective, and far healthier than store-bought alternatives. Whether using an instant pot or slow cooker, the process remains straightforward and rewarding.

By consistently preparing chicken bone broth, you enrich your diet with collagen, minerals, and amino acids that promote overall health. Homemade chicken bone broth is not only delicious but also a fundamental ingredient in countless dishes.

FAQ

Cooking and Storage Questions