Slow-Grown Goodness: The Nutritional Power of Chicken Bone Broth - Guest Blog & Recipe

We all know that chicken broth is good for us - it’s what we crave when we’re run-down or in need of comfort - but have you ever wondered why it’s so nourishing? In this guest post, Jenny, a final year Nutritional Therapy student at the renowned Institute for Optimum Nutrition, shares the science behind why bone broth really is such a powerful tonic for your immune system, gut, and overall wellbeing. Plus, she includes her simple, wholesome recipe using Sutton Hoo chicken to help you make your own at home. Follow Jenny at @jennys_nourishing_kitchen for tips and advice on all things nutrition and lifestyle, from immune support, to hair health, to optimising sleep!

5 Reasons Bone Broth Is Good for You

When the weather turns colder and we’re all craving comfort and nourishment, few things beat a warm cup of chicken bone broth. Slowly cooked along with a mix of vegetables, broth is rich in flavour and packed with nutrients that do wonders for your body.

Here are five reasons why bone broth is good for you:

1. Supports Your Immune System

Bone broth is rich in minerals such as zinc, magnesium, and calcium, which play a role in immune health. The amino acids released during slow cooking - particularly glutamine and arginine - help fuel immune cells, making bone broth an ideal companion through cold and flu season.

2. Promotes Gut Health

A healthy gut is the foundation of overall wellbeing, and bone broth can play a role in supporting it. The gelatin extracted from simmered chicken bones helps repair and strengthen the gut lining. This is especially helpful if you experience digestive issues such as bloating or discomfort. Plus, the amino acid glutamine supports a balanced gut microbiome, which is linked to better digestion, mood, and energy.

3. Nourishes Joints and Bones

Bone broth is naturally rich in collagen, which breaks down into amino acids that support joint health. Regularly enjoying broth may help keep your joints supple, making it a wonderful addition for anyone leading an active lifestyle. It’s also a gentle source of easily absorbed calcium and phosphorus, nutrients that help maintain strong bones.

4. Boosts Skin, Hair, and Nails

Collagen isn’t just good for joints - it also supports skin elasticity, healthy hair, and stronger nails. If you’re looking for a natural way to nourish your body from the inside out, bone broth is a simple, wholesome option.

5. A Comforting, Versatile Kitchen Staple

Beyond its health benefits, chicken bone broth is deeply comforting. Whether you sip it warm as a nourishing drink, use it as a base for soups and stews, or add depth to sauces and risottos, bone broth is endlessly versatile. Having a batch on hand in the fridge or freezer means you’ve always got a nutrient-rich base ready to go.

Why I Use Sutton Hoo Chicken

For me, the quality of ingredients matters. Sutton Hoo’s free-range chickens are raised slowly and naturally on meadows by the River Deben in Suffolk. That means the broth you make isn’t just good for you, it’s full of depth, flavour, and goodness you can taste.

This winter, why not make a pot of bone broth part of your weekly routine? It’s simple, satisfying, and one of the easiest ways to support your immune system, gut health, and overall vitality.

Recipe:

• One Sutton Hoo chicken carcass

• One onion, chopped (red or white)

• 3 garlic cloves

• A few chunks of ginger

• 1 carrot, chopped into chunky pieces

• 2 sticks of celery, chopped into chunky pieces

• One lemon, cut into quarters

• A splash of apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar (optional, but helps to break down collagen and minerals in the bones.)

• Salt and pepper (optional)

(Side note: I often freeze leftover bits of vegetables that would otherwise be thrown away ie cauliflower leaves, broccoli stems etc. These are still full of nutrients, so I put these in too.)

Method:

1.      Using a large pot, add all ingredients and cover with water.

2.      Bring to the boil, then return to a simmer.

3.      Cover, and simmer from anywhere from 4-12 hours.

4.      If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 12-36 hours.

5.      Leave to cool if desired as the liquid is very hot. Strain through a colander or sieve into a jug, and poor into suitable glass bottles or jar. Allow to cool before refrigerating.

Consume within 5 days.

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Jenny is a 4th year Nutritional Therapy student studying with the renowned Institute for Optimum Nutrition. She sees the impact our modern food environment has on our health, quietly chipping away at energy, mood, digestion, and overall well-being. Jenny believes in addressing the body as a whole, interconnected system, to help us feel energised, resilient, and vibrant. Her goal is to work with clients to uncover the root causes of their symptoms, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to make healthy choices for life.

Follow her at @jennys_nourishing_kitchen for tips and advice on all things nutrition and lifestyle, from immune support, to hair health, to optimising sleep!