Chicken Broth Instant Pot

Name: Chicken Broth (Instant Pot)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1,3 kg (3 lb.) whole raw chicken or chicken parts (legs, thighs, wings, etc.); 1 large carrot; 1 large yellow onion, peeled; 3-4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp. peppercorns; 4 tsp. salt; 5-7 parsley/dill sprigs; 3-4 thyme sprigs; 1-2 rosemary sprigs; ginger; 3-4 celery sticks

This recipe presents a simple and effortless method to make your own Chicken Broth using a whole chicken, some vegetables, and an Instant Pot.

Chicken broth stands out as a nutritional powerhouse, enriched with amino acids, collagen, electrolytes, and essential nutrients. Additionally, this homemade chicken broth serves as a light, low-carb, low-calorie, low-fat, and gluten-free option, making it a wholesome choice for a range of dietary preferences.

Beyond its nutritional value, it proves to be a versatile ingredient, elevating various dishes, from hearty soups and stews to luscious sauces and gravies. Creating your chicken broth is not only easy and cost-effective but also ensures you’re maximizing nutrient intake in your culinary creations.

The recipe requires:

7 Ingredients

Active cooking time: 15 minutes

Total cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Why you will love this!

Mostly hands-off: requires minimal hands-on effort for a convenient cooking experience.
Convenient and economical: provides a cost-effective and convenient method for crafting homemade chicken broth.
Perfect base for any soups: serves as an excellent foundation for a variety of soups, enhancing their flavor and richness.
Quick and easy preparation.
Healthy and nutritious broth, packed with essential nutrients.
Ideal for ketogenic diet, only 1 g of net carbs in one cup.
A wonderful option for a cold season and chilly days.
Light meal option for the whole family: chicken broth is low in calories, carbs, and fats.

Instant Pot Chicken Broth Recipe

Ingredients

To make chicken broth you’ll need these simple ingredients:

Whole chicken or chicken parts: chicken breasts, chicken thighs, etc.
Carrot
Onion
Garlic cloves
Bay leaves
Peppercorns
Salt

Optional add-ins:

Parsley/dill sprigs
Thyme
Rosemary
Ginger
Celery sticks

Equipment

Prepare these tools for the recipe:

Instant Pot (Pressure cooker)
Instant Pot Trivet (optional), helps to lift the chicken from the pot
Strainer
Large bowl or another pot for strained broth

Instructions

Step 1: Place everything in Instant Pot

Place an Instant Pot Trivet on the bottom of the pot. Place the chicken on the trivet and add all the other ingredients.

Fill the pot with water, ensuring that it does not cross its max line.

Step 2: Set the timer and wait (1,5 hours)

When all the ingredients are in the pot, cover it with the lid and ensure the steam release valve is in sealing mode. Next, press the Pressure Cook button and set the timer to 25 minutes on high pressure. The Instant Pot will start counting backward once it has built up pressure, typically taking 20-25 minutes.

After the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pot to naturally release for 15-30 minutes, then use a pressure release by switching the steam release valve to the venting position.

Step 3: Remove the ingredients from the pot.

When the pressure is released and the floating valve has dropped, carefully open the lid.

Remove all the large vegetables from the pot and discard them.

Next, lift the chicken from the pot and place it in a large bowl or container.

Afterward, strain the broth to remove all the small pieces and spices.

Step 4: Shred the chicken.

Shred the chicken with a fork, taking your time to carefully remove all the bones and separate the meat from them.

I ended up with 450 g (0.9 lb) of meat from my 1.3 kg (2.8 lb) chicken.

Tips for the best results

Use a large Instant Pot and ensure it can fit all the ingredients.
Use an Instant Pot trivet to elevate the chicken for easy removal.
Be careful when using quick release. Cover the valve with a towel during quick release to prevent splattering. Alternatively, use natural release, it will take about 30 minutes for the pressure to drop down.
Ensure water levels do not exceed the max line in the pot.
After cooking, taste the broth and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your liking.
Experiment with different herbs and vegetables to tailor the homemade broth to your taste preferences.

How to use Chicken Broth?

Create a keto-friendly soup by using chicken broth as a base. Add low-carb vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, red/green peppers or cauliflower. You can also include cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for added protein. Here are some easy soup recipes with chicken broth:

Clear chicken soup
Creamy chicken soup
Chicken soup with spaghetti squash
Chicken soup with mushrooms
Low carb soup with cheddar cheese and cream cheese
Miso soup
Eggdrop soup: Make a quick and easy egg drop soup. Beat eggs and gradually pour them into the hot broth while stirring to create delicate egg ribbons.

2. Drink warm chicken broth as a comforting and hydrating beverage. It can also help replenish electrolytes, which is important on the keto diet.

3. Use chicken broth as a liquid base for stews and casseroles. It adds moisture and flavor to your dishes without adding significant carbs.

4. Make a keto-friendly gravy using chicken broth. Thicken it with low-carb alternatives like xanthan gum or almond flour. Serve it over meats, vegetables, or cauliflower mash.

6. Cook vegetables in chicken broth instead of water to infuse them with flavor. This adds a savory element to your veggies without extra carbs.

Quick and and Easy Chicken Soup

Here’s one of my personal favorite ways to enjoy chicken broth: simply add tender chicken pieces to a bowl of hot broth, followed by a peeled boiled egg and freshly sliced green onion or other greens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s a simple yet satisfying combination that promises warmth and flavor and is ideal for cold weather.

This low-carb soup provides a light and satisfying meal and it is packed with protein and essential nutrients.

FAQ

How to store Chicken Broth?

To store in the fridge: allow chicken broth to cool, then keep it in airtight containers or jars in the fridge for 3-4 days.

To freeze the chicken broth, allow it to cool, pour into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays, seal it tightly, label it with the date, and store it in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.

Defrost in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave defrost function.

To reheat: heat chicken broth in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through or use a microwave.

How to make Chiken Broth on the Stove?

To make chicken broth on the stove:

Place chicken and other ingredients in a large pot/dutch oven and add enough water to cover.
Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1-2 hours. Skim off foam during simmering.
Strain the broth to remove solids. Shred the chicken.

What's the difference between Chicken Broth, Chicken Bone Broth and Chicken Stock?

Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is a light-bodied liquid made by simmering chicken bones, meat, vegetables, and herbs in water for an extended period. The simmering process releases the soluble proteins, collagen, and gelatin from the bones, resulting in a flavorful broth with a slightly thin consistency. Chicken broth is typically used as a base for soups, sauces, and stews, adding depth and richness without overpowering the other ingredients.

Chicken Bone Broth

Chicken bone broth is a more concentrated and nutrient-dense version of chicken broth, made by simmering chicken bones for a much longer duration, typically 12-48 hours. The prolonged cooking time allows the collagen in the bones to break down further, releasing a gelatinous substance that thickens the broth and imparts a rich, savory flavor. Chicken bone broth is often touted for its health benefits, including increased collagen production, improved gut health, and reduced inflammation.

Chicken Stock

Chicken stock falls between chicken broth and chicken bone broth in terms of intensity and flavor. It is made by simmering chicken bones, meat, and vegetables in water for a moderate amount of time, typically 3-4 hours. This process releases a moderate amount of collagen and gelatin, resulting in a broth with a richer flavor and slightly thicker consistency than chicken broth. Chicken stock is a versatile culinary ingredient, used as a base for soups, sauces, gravies, and risottos.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences between chicken broth, chicken bone broth, and chicken stock:

Feature	Chicken Broth	Chicken Bone Broth	Chicken Stock
Main ingredients	Chicken bones, meat, vegetables, herbs	Chicken bones, water	Chicken bones, meat, vegetables, herbs
Cooking time	1-2 hours	12-48 hours	3-4 hours
Collagen content	Low	High	Moderate
Flavor	Light, delicate	Rich, savory	Rich, well-rounded
Consistency	Thin	Thick, gelatinous	Medium
Typical use	Soups, sauces, stews	Drink, soups, sauces, risottos	Soups, sauces, gravies, risottos

What are the health benefits of the Chicken Broth?

Improved gut health: Chicken broth is a good source of amino acids, including glycine, which is important for gut health. Glycine helps to repair the gut lining and promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria.
Low Carbohydrates: Chicken broth is low in carbs, making it suitable for a low-carb diet.
Electrolyte Support: Helps balance sodium and potassium levels.
Improved sleep: Chicken broth contains magnesium, which is a mineral that is important for relaxation and sleep. A warm cup of chicken broth before bed can help to promote better sleep.
Immune Support: Compounds in chicken broth can contribute to immune function, and warm broth is comforting for cold and flu symptoms.
Hydration Assistance: Chicken broth is a great way to stay hydrated. It is a good source of electrolytes, which are minerals that are important for hydration.
Flavor Enhancement: Enhances the taste of keto meals without adding significant carbs.
Digestive Ease: Chicken broth can help to relieve indigestion, constipation, and diarrhea.
Easy-to-Digest Protein: Broth provides easily digestible protein.
Weight loss: Chicken broth is a low-calorie, low-fat food that can help you feel full and satisfied. This can help you to eat less and lose weight.

Nutritional value

Nutritional information per one cup (240 ml):

Calories 15

Protein 1.6 g

Total carbohydrate 1 g

Dietary fiber 0 g

Total sugars 1 g

Net carbs 1 g

Total fat 0.5 g

Saturated fat 0 g

Cholesterol 6 mg

Sodium 924 mg

Potassium 44.8 mg

Calcium 10 mg

Iron 0.2 mg

Disclaimer: The nutritional value provided is based on general information and should not be considered as a substitute for professional dietary advice or medical guidance. The values are derived from reputable sources, such as food databases or nutritional labels, but there may be variations in nutrient content depending on factors such as brand, preparation methods, and serving sizes.

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