A Hidden Reality About Broth
Did you know rotisserie chicken broth is one of the best kept secrets of the kitchen? Most of the time we assume that homemade broth is the only way to go, but think about rotisserie chicken: You are probably overlooking a treasure trove of flavors at the bottom of the pot. According to data, more than $1.3 billion in rotisserie chicken is being sold annually in the United States. But have you ever tossed away the bones and scraps, missing out on the rich, flavorful broth that is so easy to make from it? Rotisserie chicken broth is immensely flavorful, economical, and nutritious. It’s time we make the most of rotisserie chicken!
Whether you’re whipping up soups, gravies or sauces, rotisserie chicken broth provides a quick and tasty way to upgrade your dishes. So punch-your-ticket deep into the realm of rotisserie chicken broth and why you need it in your kitchen.
What is Ramen Broth? What is Ramen Broth?
Rotisserie chicken broth is stock made with the leftover bones, skin and carcass of a rotisserie chicken, simmered. It’s like classic chicken broth, only made with chicken that’s already been cooked, lending it an umami-rich, satiating quality.
What sets rotisserie chicken broth apart is the convenience and added richness it adds to your meals. Because the chicken is already cooked and seasoned, you just have to take bones and remnants and make a base that’s full of flavor. It’s a simple way to create broth in-house without beginning from the ground up with uncooked chicken, and it’s ideal for hustle-filled weeknights when you don’t have hours to let a pot develop.
The Benefits of Using Rotisserie Chicken Broth
Rotisserie chicken broth is not only a time-saver but provides numerous health benefits and amps up the flavor of your food as follows:
1. Rich in Nutrients
Rotisserie chicken broth is brimming with such nutrients as protein, collagen and minerals. Cooking raw bones to a simmer releases collagen, which converts to gelatin, giving you a nutrient-dense broth that is also fantastic for your joints, skin and digestion. And the amino acids in the broth bolster your immune system.
2. Cost-Effective
Rotisserie chickens are inexpensive, and using what’s left behind to make broth pays for itself. Do you have to toss out the carcass to create a deep, braggadocio broth that is capable of filming a few recipes? Ideal for people trying to stretch their food budget and get more out of what they already have.
3. Convenience
The convenience of rotisserie chicken broth is one of the best things about it. Because rotisserie chickens are already cooked and seasoned, you don’t have to begin with raw chicken or take hours simmering the stock. Although, I bet you can use the remaining bones and carcass, and within a few hours, you’ll have a great broth.
4. Versatility
Rotisserie chicken broth can be incorporated into an enormous range of dishes — soups and stews, sure, but also sauces, risottos and gravies. Its versatility makes it a must-have ingredient for a wide array of recipes. You can even freeze it for later, it’s a perfect staple to always have in your kitchen.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Broth
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Broth Once you have your rotisserie chicken. Here’s how you can prepare it at home:
Ingredients
- Bones from leftover rotisserie chicken (carcass, skin and any remaining meat)
- 1 onion, quartered (the skin can be left on)
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon salt, or to taste
- Enough water to cover the ingredients in the pot
- Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or other seasonings like a splash of apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Gather the Ingredients: Assemble all the leftover bones from the rotisserie chicken, including skin and cartilage. If there’s any meat left on the chicken carcass, you can pick it off and reserve it for something else (or leave it in the broth — more flavor!).
- Add the Veg and Spices: To a big pot, add the chicken bones, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, salt, and any herbs you’ve got. You can even add a dash of apple cider vinegar, which allows more nutrients to leach from the bones as they simmer.
- Cover All the Ingredients with Water: Pour in enough cold water to the pot to completely cover the elements. Heat to a simmer over medium-high heat. After it starts boiling, turn the heat to low, and simmer it.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the broth to simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or up to 6 hours for more flavor. If using the slow cooker, skim the surface once in a while to remove the foam or any impurities that float to the top.
- Strain the Broth: Once the broth has been cooked to taste, strain the solids using a fine mesh strainer so that you are left with a clear liquid with a rich flavor.
- Store or Use: Allow the broth to cool before transferring to airtight containers. You can store the broth in the fridge for 5 days or freeze for 3 months.
How to Use Rotisserie Chicken Broth
The beautiful thing about rotisserie chicken broth is that it’s super versatile, and there are a million different things you can do to use it. The following are some creative ideas for adding it to your cooking:
1. Soups and Stews
Rotisserie chicken broth is the ultimate base for soups and stews. Whether you are making a classic chicken noodle soup or a hearty vegetable stew, the deep flavor of the broth deepens and adds complexity. You can also turn it into a speedy chicken tortilla soup or a cozy chicken and rice soup.
2. Sauces and Gravies
Chicken broth is a wonderful base for gravies and sauces. Just add it to a pan with some flour to make a roux, and you have the base for a delicious gravy to serve over mashed potatoes, roasted meats or vegetables.
3. Risottos
And if you are someone who loves making risotto, using rotisserie chicken broth in place of water for your rice can bring a nice extra dimension of flavor to it. The flavor of the chicken makes the creamy risotto richer and tastier.
4. Sautéing Vegetables
Substitute oil or butter for rotisserie chicken broth to sauté vegetables for a healthier and tastier option. It lends moisture and flavor, particularly when cooking greens such as spinach or kale.
5. Cooking Grains or Pasta
Use rotisserie chicken broth to cook up grains like quinoa, rice or barley, or to cook pasta. It adds savory flavor to your grains and pasta, elevating your side dishes.
How To Store And Freeze Rotisserie Chicken Broth
If you want to fully benefit from your rotisserie chicken broth, then you need to store it correctly. Here are a few tips:
1. Storing in the Refrigerator
If you intend to use the broth within a couple of days, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It can remain fresh for up to 5 days.
2. Freezing for Later Use
If you want to store them for longer, the best way is to freeze them. Skim off the fat (that will become a solid lump on top when you cool it) and pour your cooled broth into freezer-safe bags or containers, reserving some space in the top for expansion. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, so you always have a batch ready to go.
Rotisserie Chicken Broth Health Benefits
Because all broths, rotisserie chicken broth is full of nutrients, which helps to support a healthy diet. Here are a few health benefits that it offers:
1. Supports Joint Health
The gelatin from chicken that dissolves in the broth is really a great food for the joints. Collagen aids in the elasticity of your joints which can use the same properties to help alleviate joint pain and inflammation.
2. Improves Digestion
Chicken broth has long been known for soothing digestive systems. The broth’s gelatin supports healing of the gut lining and digestion. It’s often prescribed for those suffering from digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
3. Boosts Immunity
Rotisserie chicken broth contains minerals and amino acids that support the immune system and keep you healthy and on your feet. The broth is also hydrating, a crucial component for overall health, as well, she said.
Conclusion
Rotisserie chicken broth is not just a byproduct of a one-stop shop for dinner — it’s a flavor- and nutrient-rich addition to your kitchen. You can add a nutritious broth to your food as well as reap other health benefits by harnessing the power of leftover chicken bones. Using it in soups, gravies, risottos or as a cooking base, rotisserie chicken broth will soon be one of your cooking staples.
Next time you grab a rotisserie chicken, don’t toss the bones — use them to make a batch of delicious, homemade broth that can elevate your cooking to new heights!
Key Takeaways
- Rotisserie chicken broth is also a fast, handy and tasty alternative to homemade chicken broth.
- It contains collagen, protein and minerals that are good for your joints and your digestion.
- You can incorporate the broth into countless recipes from soup to gravy, risottos, and sautéed vegetables.
- And by storing it in the fridge or in the freezer, you have it right there when you need it.
- Rotisserie chicken broth is inexpensive and incredibly useful, so have it on hand in your kitchen,
FAQ
1. Can I use the remaining rotisserie chicken meat for the broth?
Yes! You can use the leftover chicken meat you collected in your broth to add flavor, or reserve it for other meals, like salads and sandwiches.
2. How long to simmer the broth?
Let the broth simmer for at least 2-3 hours, but longer if you want a more enriched flavor.
3. How can rotisserie chicken broth be made using a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Making rotisserie chicken broth in a slow cooker. You literally throw everything in the slow cooker, cover with water and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. Can I make rotisserie chicken broth without vegetables?
While vegetables such as carrots, celery and onion contribute flavor, you can also make broth with just the chicken bones and water if you want a less complex version.
5. Is rotisserie chicken broth gluten-free?
Indeed, rotisserie chicken broth is gluten-free, making it a great option for those who need to avoid gluten.
6. How do I make the broth taste richer?
Simmering the broth longer as well as herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary or bay leaves can deepen the flavor of the broth.
