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Does chicken soup have gelatin?

Homemade chicken soup can be more than just comfort food—it can also be a rich source of gelatin, depending on how it’s prepared. This recipe focuses on creating a gelatin-rich chicken soup, packed with nutrients that support gut health, joints, skin, and immune function. Learn how to craft a soothing, nourishing broth that’s naturally full of collagen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken bones (preferably feet, wings, necks, or a whole chicken)

  • 10 cups (2.4L) water

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 2 carrots, chopped

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bones

  • If using raw bones, roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

  • If using a whole chicken, cook first, remove the meat, and save the bones for the broth.

Step 2: Simmer Low and Slow

  • Place bones in a large stockpot or slow cooker.

  • Add water, vinegar, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and dried herbs.

  • Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat (small bubbles, not a rolling boil).

  • Skim off foam during the first hour.

  • Simmer gently for 8–12 hours (longer if desired for richer gelatin extraction).

Step 3: Add Vegetables

  • Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic during the last 2–3 hours of simmering.

Step 4: Strain and Store

 

  • Remove bones and vegetables.

  • Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.

  • Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. The broth should become jelly-like once chilled.

Notes

  • Bone Choices Matter: Chicken feet, wings, and necks are the richest in collagen.

  • Add Acid: A splash of apple cider vinegar helps draw out more gelatin.

  • Cooking Time: Longer simmering = more gelatin.

  • No Gel? No Worries: You can still get nutrition even if the broth doesn’t gel perfectly.

  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken soup gelatin, bone broth, collagen soup, homemade chicken broth, gut health soup, paleo soup, slow cooker chicken broth, rich chicken soup