This will be a four part series on how to use a whole chicken. This is a great way to feed your family healthy meals on a budget.
Part 1 will discuss how to cook the whole chicken in the crock pot.
Part 2 will discuss how to make homemade chicken broth from the leftover bones and skin.
Part 3 will discuss how to make homemade chicken soup from the chicken broth.
Part 4 will discuss the health benefits of homemade chicken broth.
To a homesteader, dealing with a whole chicken purchased from the grocery store might not seem like a big deal, but for those of us that grew up eating chicken soup from a can, a whole chicken can be a little bit intimidating. I will admit that the first time I did this, I was grossed out but as time went on I became more confident and now it is no big deal. You’ll get there too, I promise.
Step 1: Remove the innards from the chicken cavity and rinse it off. Just a warning: there might be a little blood inside – rinse that all out.
Step 2: Put the chicken in the crock pot and add about 1/4 cup of water.
Step 3: Season the chicken with your favorite seasonings. I use salt, pepper, and thyme. Another note: use organic chicken. Based on the size in this picture below, I think this is from when I was still using a normal chicken. The organic chicken is much smaller and more expensive, but I feel better about what I’m feeding my family.
Step 4: Cover with lid and cook on high for 2 hours. Reduce heat to low and cook for another 5 to 6 hours depending on the size of your chicken or until golden.
Step 5: Remove from the pot and let it cool before shredding, or you could serve part of this as a meal.
Step 6: Remove all of the meat from the bones and place all of the bones, skin, and junk you don’t want back into the pot. Now follow me along to part 2 to find out how to make homemade chicken broth.
You can use the shredded chicken in chicken soup, over salads, serve alone with vegetables, or use in meals such as enchiladas, casseroles, chicken salad sandwiches, chicken pot pie, and more.
I hope you enjoy,
Amber
Linking with Courtney at womenlivingwell.org
A Joyful Servant 