Ina Garten Homemade Chicken Stock Recipe

Ina Garten Homemade Chicken Stock Recipe

This Ina Garten Homemade Chicken Stock is a rich and aromatic base, which uses whole roasting chickens and fresh herbs. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 4 hours and 15 minutes.

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Ina Garten Homemade Chicken Stock Ingredients

  • 3 (5-pound) roasting chickens
  • 3 large onions, unpeeled and quartered
  • 6 carrots, unpeeled and halved
  • 4 celery stalks with leaves, cut into thirds
  • 20 sprigs fresh parsley
  • 15 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 20 sprigs fresh dill
  • 1 head garlic, unpeeled and halved
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
  • 4 quarts (16 cups) water

How To Make Ina Garten Homemade Chicken Stock

  1. Combine all ingredients: Place chickens, onions, carrots, celery, herbs, garlic, salt, and peppercorns in a 16-quart stockpot.
  2. Add water: Pour in 4 quarts of water or enough to cover ingredients by about 1 inch.
  3. Bring to a boil: Set the pot over high heat. Bring to a boil and skim off any foam or impurities from the surface.
  4. Simmer the stock: Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 4 hours. Stir occasionally to keep ingredients submerged.
  5. Strain the stock: Remove large solids with tongs or a slotted spoon. Strain the remaining liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl or container.
  6. Cool and store: Allow stock to cool at room temperature. Refrigerate overnight, then skim off any solidified fat. Store in airtight containers.
Ina Garten Homemade Chicken Stock Recipe
Ina Garten Homemade Chicken Stock Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • Can I use leftover roasted chicken bones?
    Yes, use bones from cooked chickens for a deeper, roasted flavor.
  • What’s the best pot size?
    A 16-quart stockpot is ideal to hold all ingredients and allow room for simmering.
  • How to make it more flavorful:
    Roast the vegetables before adding them to the pot.
  • Can I freeze chicken stock?
    Yes, freeze in quart or cup-sized portions for up to 3 months.
  • What can I use instead of dill?
    Use extra thyme or parsley if you prefer a milder herb flavor.

What To Use Homemade Chicken Stock For

Homemade chicken stock adds depth to:

  • Chicken soup or noodle soup
  • Risotto or paella
  • Gravy and pan sauces
  • Braised meats or vegetables
  • Cooking grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous

How To Store Homemade Chicken Stock

Refrigerate:
Store in sealed containers in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freeze:
Freeze in mason jars, plastic containers, or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Leave room at the top for expansion.

Chicken Stock Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: ~86
  • Protein: ~6g
  • Fat: ~4g
  • Carbohydrates: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~620mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on LOW for 8–10 hours for similar results.

Do I have to peel the vegetables?
No, leaving the peels on adds extra flavor and color.

Can I reuse the chicken meat?
Yes, use the cooked chicken in soups, salads, or casseroles.

How to get a clear stock?
Avoid stirring too much, and strain carefully through a fine mesh or cheesecloth.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Use a few teaspoons of dried herbs in place of each bunch.

Try More Recipes:

Ina Garten Homemade Chicken Stock Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: SaucesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6 quarts

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

4

hours 
Calories

86

kcal

This rich, golden homemade chicken stock from Ina Garten uses whole chickens, herbs, and vegetables for the perfect soup or sauce base.

Ingredients

  • 3 (5-lb) roasting chickens

  • 3 onions, unpeeled and quartered

  • 6 carrots, halved

  • 4 celery stalks with leaves

  • 20 sprigs parsley

  • 15 sprigs thyme

  • 20 sprigs dill

  • 1 head garlic, halved

  • 2 tbsp kosher salt

  • 2 tsp whole peppercorns

  • 4 quarts water

Directions

  • Combine all ingredients in a 16-quart stockpot.
  • Cover with water and bring to a boil.
  • Skim foam and reduce heat to simmer uncovered for 4 hours.
  • Strain out solids. Cool, refrigerate, and skim fat.
  • Store in the fridge or freezer as needed.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.