Appetizers & Starters > Soups & Broths > Broths & Consommés > Chicken Broth

Quick & Easy Chicken Broth from Scraps

<p>Don't throw away those leftover chicken bones and vegetable scraps! This recipe shows you how to make a flavorful and nutritious chicken broth using ingredients you might otherwise discard. It's a great way to reduce waste and save money.</p>

Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
1-2 hours
Servings
6-8 cups
Ingredients
  • 2-3 cups Chicken bones (from a roasted chicken or cooked chicken pieces)
  • 2 cups Vegetable scraps (onion peels, carrot tops, celery ends, garlic skins)
  • 8-10 cups Water
  • 1 leaf Bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon Peppercorns
  • to taste Salt

Gather Your Scraps

<p>Collect your chicken bones and vegetable scraps. Make sure the vegetables are clean and free of any spoiled parts.</p>

Combine Ingredients in a Pot

<p>Place the chicken bones, vegetable scraps, bay leaf, and peppercorns in a stockpot or large saucepan.</p>

Add Water and Simmer

<p>Pour 8-10 cups of cold water over the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 1-2 hours.</p>

Strain the Broth

<p>Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth-lined colander into a bowl or container. Discard the solids.</p>

Season and Use

<p>Season the broth with salt to taste. Use immediately or store for later use.</p>

FAQ

  • What kind of vegetable scraps can I use?

    <p>Good options include onion peels, carrot tops, celery ends, garlic skins, and parsley stems. Avoid using strong-flavored vegetables like broccoli or cabbage, as they can overpower the broth.</p>
  • Can I use cooked chicken meat in the broth?

    <p>You can add small pieces of cooked chicken meat to the broth during the last 30 minutes of simmering to add extra flavor and nutrients.</p>
  • How long can I store the broth?

    <p>Store the cooled broth in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.</p>
  • Is this broth as flavorful as broth made with fresh chicken?

    <p>While not as intensely flavored as broth made with a whole chicken, this broth is still flavorful and nutritious, especially considering it's made from scraps.</p>