Herbed Chicken Broth with Lemon and Thyme

This comforting herbed chicken broth combines traditional flavors with a refreshing twist of lemon and fresh thyme. Simmered to perfection, it offers a light yet rich flavor profile, making it perfect as a base for soups or enjoyed on its own. This recipe is wholesome and satisfying, meeting dietary needs without compromising on taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
• 12 cups water
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 lemon, halved
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large stock pot, combine the whole chicken and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Once boiling, skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
3. Add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and lemon halves to the pot.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool. Strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into another pot, discarding the solids.
6. Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat and return it to the broth, if desired.