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1roasted chicken carcassbones, skin, and any leftover bits
1large onionquartered (leave skin on for color)
2carrotsroughly chopped
2celery stalksroughly chopped
3clovesgarlicsmashed
1bay leaf
1teaspoonwhole black peppercorns
8–10 cups cold waterenough to cover ingredients
Optional:
parsley stemsthyme sprigs, or a small piece of ginger
Instructions
Stovetop Method
Place everything in a large stockpot and add 8–10 cups of water to cover.
Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce to a very low simmer. Skim any foam that rises to the top.
Simmer uncovered for 2–3 hours, occasionally pressing bones to release flavor.
Strain through a fine-mesh strainer, discard solids, and cool.
Store up to 5 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen.
Instant Pot Method
Add all ingredients to the pot (fill only to the “Max” line).
Lock lid and set to High Pressure for 45 minutes.
Allow natural release for 15 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Strain and cool as above.
Slow Cooker Method
Add all ingredients and cover with 8–10 cups of water.
Cook on Low for 8–10 hours (overnight works great).
Strain and cool as above..
Notes
Cook time:Stovetop: 2–3 hours (hands-off)Instant Pot: 45 minutes high pressure (+15-minute natural release)Slow Cooker: 8–10 hours on lowHomemade stock turns “just soup” into something special. Use every part of your roasted chicken — bones, skin, and the bits stuck to the carcass. Add vegetable scraps if you have them, or keep it simple.Chef’s Tip: Chill your finished stock overnight; the fat will rise and solidify, making it easy to skim for a lighter broth.