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Comprehensive Guide to Chicken Bones: Benefits, Risks, and Culinary Uses

Steaming bowl of chicken bone broth with fresh herbs and crusty bread on the side, illustrating a comforting meal idea."

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Chicken bones aren’t just leftovers—they’re packed with essential nutrients and flavors that can be transformed into rich, nourishing bone broth. This easy homemade bone broth is high in collagen, minerals, and amino acids, making it excellent for joint health, digestion, and immunity.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Broth

  • 2 lbs 900g chicken bones (leftover carcasses, wings, drumsticks, or feet)
  • 10 cups water (or enough to cover the bones)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (helps extract nutrients)
  • 1 large onion (quartered)
  • 2 medium carrots (chopped)
  • 2 celery stalks (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (smashed)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Flavor Enhancers (Optional Additions)

  • 1– inch piece of ginger (for an immune boost)
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil (for Mediterranean flavors)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Bones

  1. If using raw bones, roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes until golden brown. This enhances flavor and depth.
  2. If using leftover bones from a roasted chicken, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients

  1. Place the bones, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings into a large pot, slow cooker, or pressure cooker.
  2. Add apple cider vinegar and let the mixture sit for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps draw minerals from the bones.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

  1. ✔ Slow Cooker (Best Method)
  2. Cook on low for 12-24 hours for maximum nutrient extraction.
  3. ✔ Stovetop Method
  4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 12-18 hours. Skim off foam as needed.
  5. ✔ Pressure Cooker (Fastest Option)
  6. Cook on high pressure for 2-3 hours and allow a natural pressure release.

Step 4: Strain and Store

  1. Let the broth cool slightly.
  2. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids.
  3. Pour into glass jars, containers, or ice cube trays for storage.

Nutrition