How Can I Make a Clear, Scum-Free Chicken Broth or Soup?

Faith Durand
Faith DurandSenior Vice President of Content at AT Media
Faith is the SVP of Content at Apartment Therapy Media and former Editor-in-Chief of The Kitchn. She is the author of three cookbooks, including the James Beard Award-winning, The Kitchn Cookbook. She lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband and two daughters.
published Nov 9, 2012
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Q: Whenever I make chicken soup or need to put chicken of any kind into a soup, the broth gets scummy or has floaties in it from the chicken — help! I just want to make a beautiful clear soup with chicken in it!

Sent by Bethany

Editor: Bethany, this is a really normal effect when cooking chicken (or any kind of meat). Any foam can be skimmed off the top with a skimmer, or you can strain the broth through a cheesecloth if you want it super clear.

Readers, what are your best tips for making a clear, pristine chicken broth?


(Image: Emma Christensen)