Are you looking for a quick and easy way to make delicious homemade chicken broth? Look no further! This recipe uses leftover rotisserie chicken to create a flavorful and nutritious broth in a fraction of the time it takes to make it from scratch. It's perfect for busy weeknights, and the result is a broth far superior to anything you'll find in a store. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best – delicious, healthy, and surprisingly simple!
Ingredients:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, leftover meat removed (reserve meat for another meal!)
- 8 cups water
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley sprigs
Instructions:
Get started: This recipe is surprisingly easy and involves minimal preparation. Start by removing all the meat from your rotisserie chicken – save that delicious meat for salads, sandwiches, or tacos later!
Combine ingredients: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken carcass, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more flavor it will develop!
Strain: Once the broth has simmered, remove it from the heat and carefully strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander into a large bowl or container. Discard the solids.
Cool & Store: Allow the broth to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Best Chicken Broth:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with vegetables: Add other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or leeks for additional flavor and nutrients.
- Roast the bones first (optional): For a deeper, richer flavor, roast the chicken bones in a 400°F oven for 30 minutes before adding them to the pot. This step adds a lovely caramelization that intensifies the broth’s taste.
- Skim the foam: When the broth first comes to a boil, skim off any foam that rises to the surface. This will help create a clearer broth.
- Season to taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking before storing. You can also add other seasonings like herbs or spices towards the end of the simmering time.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Broth: Add a few slices of fresh ginger or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herby Chicken Broth: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Add them during the last 30 minutes of simmering.
- Chicken Noodle Soup Base: This broth is the perfect foundation for a quick and easy chicken noodle soup. Simply add cooked noodles and shredded chicken to the broth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields roughly 8 servings. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients used and serving size, but a general estimate would be:
- Calories: Around 15-20 calories per cup
- Protein: Minimal
- Fat: Minimal
- Sodium: Varies depending on salt added
This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals done quickly and easily. It's perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply looking to elevate their homemade cooking. Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious homemade chicken broth!