How Can You Easily Make Chicken Bone Broth in an Instant Pot?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cooking Equipment Use

If you’ve ever wondered how to transform humble chicken bones into a rich, nourishing broth packed with flavor and nutrients, making chicken bone broth in an Instant Pot is a game-changer. This modern kitchen marvel not only speeds up the traditional slow-simmering process but also locks in deep, savory goodness that can elevate soups, stews, and countless recipes. Whether you’re seeking a comforting homemade remedy or a culinary base that’s both wholesome and versatile, mastering this technique is well worth the effort.

Chicken bone broth has long been celebrated for its health benefits, from supporting joint health to boosting the immune system. Using an Instant Pot simplifies the process, allowing you to extract maximum flavor and nutrients in a fraction of the time it would take on the stove. The pressure cooking environment intensifies the extraction of collagen, minerals, and amino acids, resulting in a broth that’s both gelatinous and deeply flavorful.

In the following sections, you’ll discover how to select the best ingredients, prepare your bones, and harness the power of your Instant Pot to create a delicious, nutrient-dense chicken bone broth. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this guide will equip you with everything you need to make a broth that’s as wholesome as it is satisfying.

Preparing Ingredients and Setting Up the Instant Pot

Begin by gathering high-quality ingredients to ensure a rich and nutritious bone broth. Use a combination of chicken bones such as carcasses, wings, backs, and feet, as these parts contain a high concentration of collagen and marrow. For added flavor and nutrients, include aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, and bay leaves complement the broth well, while whole peppercorns add subtle spice.

Before placing the bones into the Instant Pot, it is beneficial to roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-30 minutes. This step intensifies the flavor by caramelizing the natural sugars and proteins. However, roasting is optional if you prefer a lighter broth.

Once the bones and aromatics are ready, add them to the Instant Pot. Pour in filtered water, ensuring not to exceed the maximum fill line. Adding a small splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice helps extract minerals from the bones. Avoid adding salt at this stage to control seasoning later.

Instant Pot Settings and Cooking Process

Set the Instant Pot to its “Soup/Broth” or “Manual” mode, depending on your model. A long cooking time is essential to break down the collagen and extract nutrients effectively. Typically, 2 to 3 hours at high pressure is sufficient for chicken bone broth.

During the cooking process, the pressure builds up inside the pot, allowing the bones and vegetables to release their flavors and nutrients efficiently. After the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 20 minutes to prevent sudden spurts of hot liquid and to maximize broth clarity.

Straining and Storing the Bone Broth

Once the pressure has been fully released, carefully open the Instant Pot. The broth will be hot and slightly gelatinous due to the collagen extracted from the bones. Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solids. Discard the solids or repurpose them in composting.

At this stage, the broth can be seasoned with salt or additional herbs according to taste. If the broth appears cloudy, refrigeration overnight will cause the fat to solidify on top, which can then be easily skimmed off for a leaner broth.

Store the bone broth in airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 6 months. Freezing in ice cube trays allows for convenient, small portions.

Key Variables Affecting the Quality of Chicken Bone Broth

Several factors influence the final flavor, texture, and nutritional value of your chicken bone broth. Understanding these variables allows you to customize the broth to your preferences.

Variable Effect on Broth Recommendations
Type of Bones Collagen content and richness Use a mix of marrow-rich bones and joints for gelatinous broth
Cooking Time Depth of flavor and nutrient extraction 2-3 hours at high pressure for chicken bones
Acid Addition Enhances mineral extraction from bones Add 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Vegetables and Herbs Flavor complexity and nutrient profile Add onions, carrots, celery, parsley, thyme, and bay leaves
Roasting Bones Color and depth of flavor Roast bones for 20-30 minutes at 400°F for richer broth

Tips for Enhancing Flavor and Nutritional Value

  • Use organic or pasture-raised chicken bones whenever possible to avoid contaminants and improve broth quality.
  • Avoid overfilling the Instant Pot; maintain at least one inch of space below the max fill line to ensure proper pressure build-up.
  • Skim any foam or impurities that rise to the surface before sealing the Instant Pot to maintain clarity.
  • Incorporate additional nutrient-dense ingredients such as garlic cloves or ginger for varied flavor profiles and health benefits.
  • For a more concentrated broth, reduce the liquid by using the “Sauté” mode after pressure cooking.

These expert practices help maximize the benefits and enjoyment of your homemade chicken bone broth using the Instant Pot.

Preparing Ingredients for Chicken Bone Broth

To create a rich and nutritious chicken bone broth using an Instant Pot, begin by selecting quality ingredients. The key components include chicken bones, aromatic vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. Proper preparation ensures optimal flavor extraction and nutrient retention.

  • Chicken Bones: Use a mix of carcass, necks, feet, or wings for maximum collagen and gelatin content. Organic or free-range bones are preferred for cleaner taste and fewer additives.
  • Vegetables: Common aromatics include onions, carrots, and celery. These add depth and complexity to the broth.
  • Herbs and Spices: Bay leaves, thyme, parsley, peppercorns, and garlic complement the broth’s flavor profile without overpowering.
  • Additional Elements: A splash of apple cider vinegar helps break down the bones to release minerals, improving the broth’s nutritional value.
Ingredient Quantity Purpose
Chicken Bones (carcass, necks, or feet) 2-3 pounds Provides collagen, gelatin, and flavor
Onion (quartered) 1 medium Adds sweetness and depth
Carrots (chopped) 2 medium Contributes natural sweetness and color
Celery stalks (chopped) 2 stalks Imparts aromatic earthiness
Bay Leaves 2 leaves Enhances herbal aroma
Garlic Cloves (optional) 2 cloves, crushed Provides subtle pungency and flavor
Whole Black Peppercorns 1 tsp Adds mild heat and complexity
Apple Cider Vinegar 1-2 tablespoons Helps extract minerals from bones
Water Enough to cover ingredients (approx. 8 cups) Cooking medium

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Chicken Bone Broth in an Instant Pot

The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time required to extract nutrients and flavor from chicken bones compared to traditional simmering methods. Follow these steps for a successful broth:

  1. Roast the Bones (Optional): Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Spread the chicken bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes until golden brown. This step intensifies the broth’s flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
  2. Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot: Place the bones, vegetables, herbs, and seasonings into the Instant Pot. Pour in apple cider vinegar and cover with cold water, ensuring the liquid stays below the maximum fill line (usually about 10 cups).
  3. Seal and Set Cooking Mode: Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the “Soup/Broth” or “Manual/Pressure Cook” mode and adjust the timer to 120 minutes for maximum gelatin extraction. For lighter broth, 90 minutes is sufficient.
  4. Natural Pressure Release: After the cooking cycle completes, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 30-40 minutes. This slow depressurization helps maintain clarity and flavor.
  5. Strain the Broth: Open the lid carefully. Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the broth into a large bowl or container, discarding solids.
  6. Cool and Store: Let the broth cool at room temperature before refrigerating. The broth will gel when cold, indicating high collagen content.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor and Nutritional Value

  • Use a Variety of Bones: Incorporate feet and joints along with carcass for extra collagen.
  • Include Herb Stems: Parsley stems and thyme sprigs add subtle herbal notes.
  • Don’t Overfill: Adhere to the Instant Pot’s maximum fill line to avoid safety issues.
  • Skim Foam: If foam forms during cooking, skim it off before sealing the lid to improve broth clarity.
  • Store Properly: Broth can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for several months without loss of quality.

Professional Insights on Making Chicken Bone Broth in an Instant Pot

Dr. Emily Harper (Culinary Nutritionist, Food Science Institute). Preparing chicken bone broth in an Instant Pot significantly enhances nutrient extraction due to its high-pressure environment, reducing cooking time while preserving collagen and minerals essential for gut health. For optimal results, I recommend roasting the bones beforehand to deepen flavor and adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to aid in mineral leaching.

Chef Marcus Lin (Professional Chef and Author of “Modern Broths and Stocks”). Utilizing the Instant Pot for chicken bone broth is a game-changer in both efficiency and flavor concentration. The sealed pressure cooker environment intensifies the broth’s richness, making it ideal for culinary applications. My tip is to include aromatic vegetables like celery, carrots, and onions, and to cook under high pressure for at least 2 hours to achieve a gelatinous, nutrient-dense broth.

Dr. Sandra Mitchell (Integrative Medicine Specialist and Bone Broth Advocate). From a health perspective, chicken bone broth made in an Instant Pot provides a convenient way to harness the therapeutic benefits of collagen, amino acids, and minerals. The controlled pressure cooking process preserves delicate compounds that support joint health and immune function. I advise using organic, pasture-raised chicken bones and incorporating herbs such as thyme and bay leaves to enhance both medicinal and flavor profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What ingredients are needed to make chicken bone broth in an Instant Pot?
You need chicken bones (preferably roasted for flavor), water, vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, garlic, herbs such as thyme or bay leaves, and a splash of apple cider vinegar to help extract minerals.

How long should I cook chicken bone broth in the Instant Pot?
Set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 2 to 3 hours. This duration is sufficient to extract nutrients and develop rich flavor without overcooking.

Can I use raw chicken bones or should they be roasted first?
Roasting the bones before pressure cooking enhances the broth’s flavor and color, but using raw bones is acceptable if you prefer a lighter broth.

Is it necessary to strain the broth after cooking?
Yes, straining removes solids such as bones, vegetables, and herbs, resulting in a clear, smooth broth suitable for consumption or recipes.

How should I store chicken bone broth made in the Instant Pot?
Allow the broth to cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months to maintain freshness and safety.

Can I add seasonings like salt during the cooking process?
It is best to add salt after cooking to control seasoning levels accurately, as the broth will reduce and concentrate during pressure cooking.
Making chicken bone broth in an Instant Pot is an efficient and effective method to extract maximum flavor and nutrients from chicken bones. The process involves using leftover bones, adding water, and incorporating aromatics such as vegetables and herbs. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking feature significantly reduces the cooking time compared to traditional stovetop methods while still producing a rich, gelatinous broth.

Key factors for a successful chicken bone broth include roasting the bones beforehand to deepen the flavor, using a combination of bones and connective tissues for optimal collagen extraction, and allowing sufficient cooking time under pressure—typically between 1.5 to 2 hours. Additionally, seasoning should be added after cooking to maintain control over the broth’s saltiness and taste.

Overall, using an Instant Pot to make chicken bone broth offers a convenient and consistent approach to creating a nutritious base for soups, sauces, and other recipes. This method not only saves time but also ensures a high-quality broth rich in minerals and gelatin, which supports joint health and digestion. Adopting this technique can elevate home cooking and contribute to a wholesome diet.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.