How to make homemade chicken stock in a crock pot

Making homemade chicken stock in a crock pot is a breeze. This chicken stock is brimming with the robust essence of slow-cooked chicken and hearty vegetables. Bursting with flavors and nutrition, this chicken stock is free from unnecessary additives. A robust foundation for soups, stews, and countless dishes, making it a kitchen staple for both ease and unbeatable taste.

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Five reasons for making chicken stock in a crock pot

1. Flavor: The slow-cooking process in a slow cooker allows the chicken to marinate in its juices and absorb the flavors of herbs, spices, and seasonings, resulting in a mouthwatering chicken stock.
2. Convenient: Toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and go about your busy day – the crockpot does the heavy lifting. It’s the ultimate kitchen sidekick for multitasking moms.
3. Meal Prep: A whole chicken in the crockpot means endless possibilities. Shred it for tacos, toss it into soups, or slice it up for salads. One cooking session, multiple delicious meals.
4. Budget-Friendly: Buying a whole chicken is often more economical than individual cuts.
5. Juicy and Tender Every Time: Say goodbye to dry chicken! The low and slow cooking method ensures that your chicken emerges perfectly juicy, tender, and ready to melt in your mouth.

Ingredients for chicken stock recipe

• A whole chicken: Choose a free-range or organic option for optimal flavor and quality.
• Onion: Include one large brown onion.
• Carrots: Add one or two large carrots to the mix.

Optional ingredients:

The above ingredients make a perfect base for any meal you might be preparing later. Here are some ideas you can add to your stock to enhance the flavors:

• Celery: If you enjoy the taste of celery, add a couple of celery stalks to the crockpot.
• Garlic: Include some garlic cloves in the stock.
• Fresh herbs: Herbs like parsley, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves can impart aromatic and savory notes to the stock.
• Peppercorns: Whole black or white peppercorns add a subtle, spicy kick.
• Ginger: A few slices of fresh ginger can add warmth and depth to the stock.

How to make homemade chicken stock in a slow cooker

This recipe is so quick and easy that it hardly needs any guidance:

• Preparation: Gather your ingredients, peel and cut carrots and onions into large pieces.
• Assembly: Place the chicken, onion, and carrots (and any other ingredients you might be using)in a slow cooker, ensuring the chicken is fully covered with water.
• Cook: Set the slow cooker for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
• Strain: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and strain the aromatic chicken stock.
• Enjoy: Your delicious chicken stock is now ready to be used. Use it immediately or store it for later culinary adventures.

Storing the crock pot chicken

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool slightly before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container or resealable bag.
• Pour a portion of the prepared chicken stock over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully submerged. This helps keep the meat moist and flavorful during storage.
• Seal the container or bag tightly to prevent any leaks.
• Label the container with the date to track freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for longer storage.

Storing the crock pot chicken stock

• Let the chicken stock cool to room temperature before storing.
• Strain the stock to remove any solids, ensuring a clear liquid.
• Pour the stock into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion if freezing.
• Label the containers with the date for reference.
• Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days or freeze for several months.
• To thaw frozen stock, place it in the refrigerator overnight.

How to use chicken stock

Soups and Stews:

• The classic use of chicken stock is as a base for soups and stews. Whether it’s a hearty chicken noodle soup or a comforting vegetable stew, the stock adds depth and richness.

Sauces and Gravies:

• Create flavorful sauces and gravies by incorporating chicken stock. It forms the foundation for a variety of sauces, from creamy to savory, enhancing the taste of meats, vegetables, and pasta.

Risotto and Rice Dishes:

• Use chicken stock when cooking risotto or rice for an added layer of flavor. The stock infuses the grains with a savory taste that complements a range of main courses. Try our One Pot Rice and Drumstick recipe for a quick dinner.

Cooking Grains and Legumes:

• When cooking grains like quinoa, couscous, or lentils, use chicken stock instead of water. This imparts a delicious taste to the grains, making them more savory.

How to use cooked chicken

Chicken Salad:

• Mix diced cooked chicken with mayonnaise, celery, and your favorite seasonings for a classic chicken salad. Serve it on sandwiches, wraps, or over a bed of greens. Or try the Chinese Chicken and Orange Salad.

Chicken Tacos or Burritos:

• Shred the cooked chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Top with salsa, guacamole, and cheese for a flavorful meal.

Stir-Fries:

• Add cooked chicken to stir-fried vegetables for a quick and protein-packed meal. Toss with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for an extra burst of flavor.

Pasta Dishes:

• Incorporate cooked chicken into pasta dishes like Alfredo, carbonara, or a simple tomato sauce. It adds protein and makes the dish heartier.

Chicken Sandwiches, Wraps or Rolls:

• Roll up cooked chicken with your favorite veggies and condiments in a tortilla or flatbread for a satisfying wrap or roll.

Chicken Soup:

• Add cooked chicken to a pot of broth along with vegetables and noodles for a quick and nourishing chicken soup. Mexican Chicken Soup is a great weeknight meal to try.

Chicken Fried Rice:

• Stir-fry cooked chicken with rice, vegetables, and soy sauce for a delicious homemade chicken fried rice.

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