Chicken Broth with Vegetables

DifficultyBeginner

This classic chicken broth is slow-simmered with bone-in chicken, root vegetables, herbs, and aromatics, resulting in a clear, golden liquid full of depth and comfort. Serve it as a nourishing soup or use it as a flavorful foundation in other dishes.

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Yields6 Servings
Prep Time20 minsCook Time1 hr 30 minsTotal Time1 hr 50 mins
Ingredients
 1 whole bone-in chicken leg quarter (or 2 thighs and 2 drumsticks)
 1 onion, halved (skin-on for color)
 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
 2 celery stalks, with leaves, chopped
 3 cloves garlic, smashed
 1 parsnip or small turnip (optional), peeled and chopped
 1 small piece of leek (white part only), sliced
 8 cups cold water
 1 bay leaf
 6 black peppercorns
 3 parsley stems
 Salt, to taste
Optional Garnish/Finish
 Sliced cooked carrots or chicken
 Chopped fresh parsley or dill
 Fine noodles, rice, or matzo balls
Prepare the Base
1
  • Rinse chicken and place in a large pot. Add all vegetables, aromatics, herbs, and cold water.

Simmer Slowly
2
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.

  • Skim off any foam that rises in the first 10–15 minutes.

  • Add bay leaf, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt.

  • Simmer uncovered or partially covered for 90 minutes, ensuring broth stays clear and does not boil.

Strain the Broth
3
  • Remove chicken and vegetables with a slotted spoon.

  • Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot or large bowl.

  • Taste and season with more salt, if needed.

Serve or Store
4
  • Serve hot as-is, or add back some shredded chicken, carrots, and herbs.

  • Optionally stir in cooked noodles or rice for a heartier dish.

Variations
5
  • Add a whole tomato (halved) for a deeper color and slight sweetness

  • Infuse with a slice of fresh ginger for extra warmth

  • Use only vegetables and herbs for a vegetarian broth

Pairing Suggestions
6
  • Drink: Dry Riesling, chamomile tea, or lemon-infused water

  • Side: A slice of toasted sourdough, herbed matzo ball, or light salad

Ingredients

Ingredients
 1 whole bone-in chicken leg quarter (or 2 thighs and 2 drumsticks)
 1 onion, halved (skin-on for color)
 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
 2 celery stalks, with leaves, chopped
 3 cloves garlic, smashed
 1 parsnip or small turnip (optional), peeled and chopped
 1 small piece of leek (white part only), sliced
 8 cups cold water
 1 bay leaf
 6 black peppercorns
 3 parsley stems
 Salt, to taste
Optional Garnish/Finish
 Sliced cooked carrots or chicken
 Chopped fresh parsley or dill
 Fine noodles, rice, or matzo balls
Chicken Broth with Vegetables