Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Broth: A Nourishing Base for Any Recipe

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Make a rich and nourishing chicken broth effortlessly using your slow cooker. Perfect as a base for any dish.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Servings: 5

Why This Recipe Works

  • Set and Forget: The slow cooker makes this a hands-off recipe.
  • Versatile Base: Use it for soups, stews, or sauces.
  • Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and natural flavors.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Broth

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ pounds bone-in chicken pieces (breasts, wings, or thighs)
  • 6 cups water

Vegetables for Flavor:

  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 1 onion, quartered

Herbs and Seasoning:

  • 1 tablespoon dried basil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Gather all ingredients.
  2. Chop the celery, carrots, and onion into manageable pieces.

Step 2 – Assemble in the Slow Cooker

  1. Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker.
  2. Add the chopped vegetables and sprinkle with dried basil.
  3. Pour 6 cups of water over the ingredients, ensuring everything is submerged.

Step 3 – Cook Low and Slow

  1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
  2. Cook on Low for 8 to 10 hours, allowing flavors to meld together.

Step 4 – Strain the Broth

  1. Carefully remove the chicken and vegetables from the slow cooker.
  2. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.
  3. Discard the vegetables. If desired, remove the chicken meat from the bones and reserve for other recipes.

Step 5 – Store and Use

  1. Let the broth cool before transferring to airtight containers.
  2. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Broth

  • Use Bone-In Pieces: Bone-in chicken adds depth and richness to the broth.
  • Enhance Flavor: Add bay leaves, thyme, or garlic for additional layers of flavor.
  • Skim Fat: Refrigerate overnight and skim off fat for a lighter broth.
  • Save the Meat: Use the cooked chicken in salads, soups, or sandwiches.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 247
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Protein: 22g

Benefits of Homemade Chicken Broth

Rich in Nutrients:

Homemade chicken broth is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.

Supports Digestion:

The gelatin in bone-in chicken helps strengthen the gut lining.

Versatile and Budget-Friendly:

Make the most of simple ingredients for a multi-purpose base that stores well.

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