What are Chicken Backs?
Chicken backs are the backbone and leftover meat after the chicken breast, wings, and legs have been removed.
Where to Find Chicken Backs
You can find chicken backs at farmer’s markets or directly from local farms. For pasture-raised chicken backs, check out Hook’d Up Bar and Grill.
The Meat on Chicken Backs
Chicken backs are mostly white meat, as they are what remains after the white chicken breast is cut away.
Is Chicken Back Good for Eating?
Chicken backs can be delicious if prepared using the right recipe. While they have a high bone to meat ratio, making them mostly bone, some chicken backs may have more meat than others. Using them in soups or stews is an excellent way to make the most of this cut of poultry.
Chicken Backs for Stock
Chicken backs are perfect for making bone broth, resulting in a rich and flavorful stock. Simmer the chicken backs on the stovetop for a few hours, and you’ll have a nourishing broth ready to use in various recipes.
Tips for Making Chicken Back Broth
- Thaw the frozen chicken backs in the fridge for 24-48 hours.
- Place the chicken backs, water, and apple cider vinegar in a pot.
- Simmer the uncooked chicken backs on low heat for 2-3 hours, skimming off any scum that forms.
- Strain the hot broth through a colander, using cheesecloth for a clear stock.
- Remove the meat from the chicken backs and set it aside for the soup recipe.
- You can simmer the bones for even richer broth, but be careful not to overcook the meat.
Chicken Back Soup Recipe
Transform your chicken back stock into a comforting soup by adding vegetables, herbs, and pasta. Here’s how:
- Mince garlic and dice onion, celery, and carrots.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven and add the minced garlic, diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook over medium heat until softened.
- Add dried thyme, dried oregano, chicken back broth, cooked chicken back meat, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Add dry pasta noodles, such as cavatappi, and cook until al dente.
- Serve the soup in bowls and garnish with fresh lemon juice and parsley.
Freezing Chicken Backs
You can freeze both raw and cooked chicken backs for long-term storage. Vacuum-seal them in freezer bags to maintain their quality.
Reheating Chicken Back Soup
Reheat the chicken back soup in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes on high. Add more broth if needed.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Backs
Chicken backs are low in carbs, gluten-free, and keto-friendly. They are a good source of protein, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. Removing the skin can reduce the total and saturated fat content.
Expert Tips for Weight Loss
Chicken back soup is a satisfying and comforting meal that can support your weight loss journey. Broth-based soups like this one are filling and low in calories. The combination of lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and fluid volume keeps you satiated. Using whole grain noodles increases the fiber content.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What other recipes can I make with chicken back broth?
- How else can I use leftover chicken back meat?
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The Disclaimer
Please consult with a registered dietitian or physician to determine the best dietary pattern for your needs. The nutrition information provided is only an estimate and may vary depending on specific brands and ingredients used. Focus on the enjoyment of cooking rather than getting caught up in precise numbers.
Let’s get cooking with this chicken back recipe!
