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Bella’s Chicken Soup

Simple, restorative, and deeply nourishing, this classic Chicken Soup is the cornerstone of a healthy animal-based diet. By slow-simmering bone-in chicken in pure water or broth, you extract essential minerals, collagen, and healthy fats that create a naturally flavorful and healing liquid. It is a comforting, one-pot meal that provides high-quality protein and hydration, making it an ideal choice for recovery or a light, satisfying dinner.

What is the benefit of using bone-in chicken for this soup? Cooking the chicken with the bones and skin intact allows the marrow and collagen to seep into the broth. This not only creates a richer, more velvety texture but also provides the amino acids necessary for joint and gut health.

How do I get a clear, golden broth? To achieve a clean, clear broth, start with cold water and bring it to a very gentle simmer. Periodically skim off any foam or “scum” that rises to the top during the first few minutes of cooking to ensure a pure finish.

Can I use a whole chicken or just parts? A whole chicken provides a wonderful variety of light and dark meat, but using just chicken thighs or wings will result in an even fattier, more gelatinous broth due to their higher connective tissue content.

How long should I simmer the soup? For the best flavor and tenderness, simmer the chicken for at least 60 to 90 minutes. You want the meat to be “fall-off-the-bone” tender while ensuring the broth has had enough time to develop a deep, savory profile.

How can I add more fat to this soup? While the chicken skin provides natural fat, you can enhance the richness by stirring in a tablespoon of butter or schmaltz (rendered chicken fat) into your bowl right before serving.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers? Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When chilled, a high-quality broth will turn into a thick jelly; simply reheat it gently on the stovetop until it returns to a delicious liquid state.

Bella’s Chicken Soup

This Instant Pot method is the ultimate "set it and forget it" recipe for a rich, gelatinous chicken soup that draws maximum nutrition from the bones and skin of the wings. By pressure cooking for nearly an hour, the connective tissues break down completely, resulting in a silky, restorative broth and meat that falls effortlessly off the bone. It is an ideal, low-effort meal for supporting gut health or simply enjoying a warm, clean bowl of carnivore comfort.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 58

Servings 2

Ingredients

1 to 2 pounds chicken party wings
Water enough to cover the wings
Salt and seasonings to taste (optional)

Instructions

Place the chicken party wings into the inner stainless steel pot of an Instant Pot. Pour in just enough water to fully submerge the wings, being careful not to exceed the maximum fill line. Add salt or seasonings if desired.
Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the steam release valve is set to the sealing position.
Select the Pressure Cook or Manual setting and set the timer for 58 minutes on high pressure.
Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for at least 15 to 20 minutes before manually venting any remaining steam.
Carefully remove the lid and serve the wings and broth together in deep bowls. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup will likely turn into a thick gel when cold due to the high collagen content; simply reheat gently on the stovetop to return it to a liquid state.