git add

Skip to main content

Chicken Stock on the Grill

This aromatic chicken stock on the grill offers a sophisticated twist on a kitchen staple. By charring the chicken and root vegetables over an open flame before simmering, you infuse the broth with a deep, smoky complexity that traditional stovetop methods simply cannot replicate. Fragrant star anise, fresh ginger, and garlic provide a vibrant, savoury base that makes this liquid gold as delicious on its own as it is in a hearty soup.

As a diabetes-friendly recipe, this homemade broth is naturally low in sugar and carbohydrates while being rich in protein and hydration. It is an excellent way to use every part of the bird, creating a nourishing meal that feels truly indulgent. Serve the shredded chicken in the hot broth with a squeeze of lemon for a light, restorative lunch, or freeze the stock in portions for a convenient flavour boost to future stews and risottos.

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Chicken Stock on the Grill

  • 2875ml water

  • 8 garlic cloves

  • 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced

  • 4 whole star anise

  • 4 bay leaves

  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns

  • 1 (4-pound) chicken, cut into 8 pieces

  • 4 carrots

  • 4 celery stalks

  • 2 unpeeled white or red onions, halved

  • Salt, for seasoning

  • Chopped parsley leaves and lemon wedges, for serving

Wipe the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Build a two-zone fire. Your high-heat zone should have embers 1 to 2 inches from the cooking surface, with occasional flames licking it. To create your medium-heat zone, nudge the embers 2 to 3 inches lower than that.

Fill a stockpot with the water, garlic, ginger, star anise, bay leaves, and peppercorns and place over medium heat. Place the chicken, carrots, celery, and onions over high heat and cook, turning occasionally, until well charred all over, about 15 minutes total. When each ingredient is done, add it to the pot (it’s important that each ingredient be very well browned—almost burnt—before adding to the pot). Cook the stock for at least 3 hours, adding additional water if necessary to keep the meat and vegetables covered. Season with salt at the end.

Remove the pot from heat. Remove the chicken pieces and shred the meat, discarding the skin and bones. Strain the stock, discarding solids.

To serve, place a pile of shredded chicken into each bowl and cover with hot stock. Pass the parsley and lemon wedges separately. The stock can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

About the author

Author image

UK recipe editors

About the reviewerView full bio

Author image

UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.