Kickstart your culinary journey with this soul-warming chicken soup with bones recipe. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re under the weather, this dish promises to deliver both flavor and comfort in every spoonful.
Why This Recipe Works
- The bones add depth and richness to the broth, making it more flavorful than boneless versions.
- Slow simmering extracts maximum flavor and nutrients from the bones, creating a healthier soup.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a complex flavor profile that’s both satisfying and comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken bones (preferably with some meat attached)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the onion, slicing the carrots and celery, and mincing the garlic. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Brown the Chicken Bones
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken bones and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor base for your soup.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. The aroma at this stage is absolutely heavenly!
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the water, add the bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 2 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf and any large bones before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the fruits of your labor. This soup is a hug in a bowl!
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer broth, you can roast the chicken bones in the oven before adding them to the pot. This adds a deeper flavor and color to your soup. If you’re short on time, a pressure cooker can reduce the cooking time significantly. Lastly, don’t skip the step of browning the bones; it’s the secret to a flavorful broth.
Recipe Variations
- Add noodles or rice for a more filling meal.
- Throw in some greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a new flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
While you can use boneless chicken, the bones contribute significantly to the flavor and nutritional value of the broth. We highly recommend using bones for the best results.
How long can I store the soup?
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the bones and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Summary
This chicken soup with bones recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly magical. It’s comforting, nutritious, and utterly delicious.
