Chicken and Broth

This homemade chicken broth is not only flavorful but also lower in sodium compared to store-bought low-sodium options. You can even customize it by adding garlic cloves or Italian seasoning to create your own variation of fancier broths available in the market. This recipe yields a concentrated broth that can be diluted by adding an equal amount of water.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup (160 g) sliced onion
• 1 cup (130 g) sliced carrot
• 1 cup (100 g) sliced celery
• 1 whole chicken
• 1½ cups (355 ml) water

PREPARATIONS:

1. Place the sliced vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Put the whole chicken on top, breast side up. Alternatively, you can use leg quarters, necks, backs, or any affordable chicken parts.
3. Pour water over the chicken and vegetables.
4. Cook on low heat for 8 to 9 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and allow it to cool until it’s easy to handle.
6. Separate the meat from the bones and cut it up as needed.
7. Strain the broth to remove the cooked vegetables.
8. Let the broth cool in the refrigerator and skim off any fat that rises to the top.
9. The broth can be mixed with an equal amount of water and used in recipes that call for chicken broth.
10. The leftover chicken meat can be used in other recipes or frozen for future use.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• For additional flavor, consider adding a couple of cloves of garlic or a tablespoon (6 g) of Italian seasoning to the broth.
• If desired, you can season the chicken with salt, pepper, or other preferred spices before placing it in the slow cooker.
• When freezing the broth, leave some headspace in the containers to allow for expansion.
• Thaw frozen broth in the refrigerator before using.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• 77 g water
• 46 calories (17% from fat, 50% from protein, 33% from carbs)
• 4 g protein
• 1 g total fat
• 0 g saturated fat
• 0 g monounsaturated fat
• 0 g polyunsaturated fat
• 4 g carbs
• 1 g fiber
• 2 g sugar
• 57 mg phosphorus
• 18 mg calcium
• 0 mg iron
• 41 mg sodium
• 170 mg potassium
• 2760 IU vitamin A
• 4 mg ATE vitamin E
• 3 mg vitamin C
• 17 mg cholesterol

Chicken meat itself is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in various ways. It can be roasted, grilled, baked, or sautéed, and used as the main component in countless dishes. From classic roasted chicken with crispy skin to succulent grilled chicken skewers or tender chicken breasts in a creamy sauce, the possibilities are endless.

Shredded or diced chicken meat can be added to salads, sandwiches, wraps, or tacos, providing a protein-packed element. It can also be used in casseroles, stir-fries, pasta dishes, or even as a pizza topping. The mild and versatile nature of chicken allows it to complement a wide range of flavors and cuisines.

Chicken broth and meat can also be combined in dishes like chicken and rice, chicken and dumplings, or chicken pot pie. These dishes incorporate the flavors of both the broth and the tender chicken meat, resulting in comforting and satisfying meals.

Whether you’re savoring a bowl of chicken noodle soup on a cold day, enjoying a tender chicken breast with roasted vegetables, or incorporating chicken and broth into your favorite recipes, this classic duo offers a delicious and nourishing experience. From the comforting qualities of chicken broth to the versatility of chicken meat, the possibilities for flavorful and wholesome meals are endless.