Low-Key happiness

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing like a steaming mug of homemade chicken bone broth to warm your soul. Whether sipped on its own or used as the base for hearty soups, this nutrient-packed elixir is a staple in any cozy kitchen. Not only is it comforting, but chicken bone broth is also brimming with health benefits—rich in collagen, protein, and essential vitamins like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which support joint health, digestion, and immunity.

Let’s dive into this simple, heartwarming recipe that’s perfect for busy moms looking to nourish their families with love and flavor!

Why Chicken Bone Broth?

Chicken bone broth is a powerhouse of nutrition. Here are a few reasons to make it a regular in your home:

Collagen and Gelatin: Supports healthy skin, hair, nails, and joints.

Amino Acids: Contains glycine and proline, which aid in gut health and reduce inflammation.

Minerals: Packed with calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus for strong bones and overall wellness.

Immune Support: The nutrients in bone broth can help boost your immune system, perfect for cold and flu season.

Let’s get started on creating this cozy, flavorful broth that will fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas.

Ingredients

Chicken bones: Save bones from a roasted chicken or previous dinners (bonus points for keeping the skin for extra flavor and nutrients!).

Vegetables: 2 onions (quartered), 2 celery stalks, 3-6 garlic cloves, and a handful of cabbage or other veggies like leeks or carrots for added depth.

Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of parsley, thyme, or rosemary for a light, aromatic touch.

Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and optional spices like bay leaves, turmeric, or a pinch of paprika.

Water: Enough to cover the bones and vegetables (about 8-10 cups).

Optional: 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to help extract nutrients from the bones.

Instructions:

Gather Your Bones and Veggies

Collect leftover chicken bones from your family’s roast chicken or dinners. If you’ve got skin or cartilage, keep them—they add richness! Place the bones in a large stockpot or slow cooker.

Toss in your onion, celery, carrots, garlic, and any extra vegetables you love.

Add Water:
Cover the bones and vegetables with water, ensuring everything is submerged (about 8-10 cups).

Bring to a Boil:
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring it to a gentle boil. As it heats, you might notice some foam rising to the surface—skim it off for a clearer broth, though this step is optional.

Simmer for Flavor:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer gently. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor and nutrient content. Aim for 8-12 hours on the stovetop or 12-24 hours in a slow cooker. Check occasionally, adding water if needed to keep the bones covered.

Season to Taste:
Add salt, pepper, and your favorite spices or fresh herbs during the last hour of simmering. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme bring a bright, cozy depth to the broth.

Strain the Broth:
Carefully strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl or another pot to remove bones, vegetables, and any small particles. Let it cool slightly.

Keep or Skim the Fat:
A layer of fat may form on top as the broth cools. You can skim it off for a lighter broth or keep it for extra richness and calories, especially if you’re using the broth in hearty soups.

Store Your Broth:
Pour the broth into glass mason jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions-

–Sip It: Enjoy a warm mug of bone broth seasoned with a pinch of salt and fresh herbs for a cozy, nutrient-packed pick-me-up.

-Soup Base: Use it as the foundation for comforting chicken noodle soup, vegetable stew, or creamy chowders.

-Cooking Boost: Add a splash to rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

-Make It a Ritual: Set your broth to simmer on a lazy Sunday, filling your home with warmth and inviting aromas.

-Save Those Scraps: Keep a freezer bag for vegetable scraps and chicken bones to make your next batch even easier.

This chicken bone broth is more than just a recipe—it’s a labor of love that brings nourishment and comfort to your family. So grab those leftover bones, fill your pot, and let the cozy magic begin. What’s your favorite way to enjoy bone broth? Share your tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!