Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth

Bone broth has gained popularity among people exploring anti-inflammatory eating patterns, particularly those managing autoimmune conditions.

While it's not a cure, this nutrient-rich broth can be a comforting addition to a balanced approach to wellness.

This simple recipe creates a flavorful broth that's perfect for sipping on cozy evenings with your favorite book. The long cooking process breaks down collagen into gelatin, creating a satisfying, warming drink that many find soothing.

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I live with a few autoimmune conditions—Hashimoto’s, Meniere’s, and Raynaud’s—as well as a persistent gut issue my doctor suspects may also be autoimmune-related. While bone broth isn’t a cure, it’s become a deeply comforting ritual for me. The warmth, nutrients, and simplicity make it one of those small, healing habits that help me feel grounded—especially on tougher days.

Understanding Bone Broth Benefits

Collagen and Gelatin Content

When bones simmer for hours, collagen—a structural protein in connective tissues—breaks down into gelatin. This creates the characteristic jiggle when the broth cools and provides amino acids that may support various bodily functions.

Potential Nutritional Support

• Digestive comfort: Contains glutamine, an amino acid that may support intestinal lining health
• Joint support: Provides building blocks like proline and glycine that the body uses in cartilage production
• Relaxation: The glycine content may have calming properties for some people
• Hydration: A warming way to increase fluid intake, especially during colder months

Note: While bone broth contains beneficial nutrients, individual results vary. Always consult healthcare providers for medical advice regarding autoimmune conditions or dietary changes.

Making Bone Broth at Home

Creating bone broth is similar to making any stock—you need quality bones, time, and basic vegetables. Using an Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while still extracting nutrients and flavor from the bones.

Regular consumption can become a pleasant ritual, like enjoying a warm cup of tea while reading. The process itself is meditative, and the result is both nourishing and comforting.

Selecting Bones for Best Results

Different bones create different flavor profiles and nutrient content:

• Beef bones: Use marrow bones, oxtails, and knuckle bones for rich flavor
• Chicken bones: Wing tips, backs, and feet provide excellent collagen
• Pork bones: Ham hocks create a distinctly flavorful broth

Cooking tip: The tools I rely on for recipes like this are listed on my Kitchen Essentials page if you’d like to take a look.

Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth

Nutrient-rich bone broth perfect for cozy reading sessions

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 2 hours | Servings: 3 quarts

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs. chicken bones (backs, necks, or feet)
• 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
• 1 tsp. sea salt
• 1 tsp. black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 bunch fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
• 12 cups filtered water

Note:

Chicken bone broth can develop a gelatinous consistency, similar to Jello, when cooled due to the presence of collagen, which is released from the bones during the cooking process. The broth will return to a fully liquid state once it's heated.

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: If you're using a whole chicken, break it down into pieces. Place the chicken bones or pieces in the Instant Pot.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the quartered onion, chopped carrots, celery, smashed garlic, apple cider vinegar, bay leaf, salt, and black peppercorns to the Instant Pot.
3. Fill with Water: Pour enough water into the Instant Pot to cover all the ingredients. Be sure not to exceed the maximum fill line.
4. Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to the sealing position, and select the 'Pressure Cook' or 'Manual' setting. Set the timer to 120 minutes (2 hours) for a rich broth.
5. Natural Release: Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally. This may take some time, but it helps extract maximum flavor from the bones and vegetables.
6. Strain the Broth: Once the pressure has fully released, carefully open the Instant Pot. Using tongs, remove the larger bones and vegetable pieces. Then, strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large bowl or pot.
7. Cool and Store: Let the broth cool to room temperature before transferring it to containers. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

This Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth is not only easy to make but also rich in flavor and nutrients. Use it as a base for soups, stews, or enjoy a warm cup on its own for a nourishing experience. 🍲✨

Storing

The bone broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Frozen broth can be kept up to a year. I use these glass mason jars to store my homemade bone broth.

Perfect Book Pairing

This warming bone broth pairs beautifully with cozy reading sessions. Try it with a mystery romance or historical romance that explores themes of healing and comfort. The gentle warmth of the broth complements a quiet afternoon with your favorite book.

Explore More Book Pairings

Tips for Success

• Use the highest quality bones you can find, preferably from grass-fed or pasture-raised animals
• Don't skip the apple cider vinegar—it helps extract minerals from the bones
• Taste and adjust seasoning after straining while the broth is still warm
• Save vegetable scraps throughout the week to add extra flavor

This nourishing broth makes an excellent base for soups, can be sipped on its own, or used in place of water when cooking grains. Whatever your wellness journey looks like, a warm cup of homemade bone broth can be a comforting ritual to pair with your reading time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use a slow cooker for 12–24 hours or simmer gently on the stovetop for 12+ hours, checking water levels regularly.

Is it normal for bone broth to gel?

Absolutely. The gelatinous consistency means you’ve extracted plenty of collagen—this is a sign of a well-made broth.

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