Make a rich chicken feet soup recipe with step-by-step instructions, collagen-packed benefits, easy flavor twists, and storage tips for lasting freshness.
This chicken feet soup recipe turns a humble ingredient into a nutrient-rich comfort food.
Known for its collagen-rich broth and soothing flavor, this traditional dish is enjoyed in many cultures.
It’s budget-friendly, deeply nourishing, and perfect when you crave something both healing and satisfying.
What Is Chicken Feet Soup?
Chicken feet soup is a bone broth made by simmering chicken feet slowly.
As they cook, the feet release collagen, gelatin, and minerals, giving the soup a rich body and silky texture.
This recipe is valued for supporting joint, skin, and gut health while being hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients for Chicken Feet Soup Recipe
Simple, wholesome ingredients build flavor and depth. Each plays a role in creating the rich, collagen-packed broth this soup is known for.
| Ingredient | Purpose in Soup |
|---|---|
| Chicken Feet (cleaned, nails trimmed) | Main source of collagen and gelatin — creates rich body and silky texture |
| Onion (quartered) | Adds natural sweetness and depth to the broth |
| Garlic (smashed) | Boosts aroma and immune-supporting properties |
| Ginger (sliced) | Brightens flavor and aids digestion |
| Carrots (chopped) | Adds mild sweetness and color to the soup |
| Celery (chopped) | Provides earthy undertones and balances sweetness |
| Whole Peppercorns | Gives gentle heat and complexity |
| Bay Leaves | Infuses subtle herbal notes while simmering |
| Salt (to taste) | Brings out the flavors of all ingredients |
| Optional: Lemongrass or Star Anise | Adds a unique aromatic twist for depth |
| Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (for garnish) | Adds fresh brightness before serving |
Tip: Use fresh, quality ingredients for the best results. The clean base allows the collagen-rich broth to shine while layering subtle sweetness, spice, and herbal aromas.
🥣 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
| Step | Action | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blanch the chicken feet | Boil for 5 minutes, then drain and rinse to remove impurities for a clear broth |
| 2 | Sauté aromatics (onion, garlic, ginger) | Cook until fragrant to build deep flavor in the base |
| 3 | Add chicken feet, vegetables, and spices | Combine with carrots, celery, peppercorns, bay leaves to enrich the broth |
| 4 | Cover with water | Use enough cold water to fully submerge all ingredients |
| 5 | Simmer gently for 2–3 hours | Extracts collagen, gelatin, and nutrients from the feet |
| 6 | Strain the broth | Remove solids to achieve a smooth, clear soup |
| 7 | Season before serving | Add salt or other spices to balance flavors to taste |
Flavor Variations & Customizations
This chicken feet soup recipe adapts easily to different palates. You can add chili flakes or peppercorns for heat, or stir in coconut milk for creaminess if you prefer a richer texture.
For a more vibrant taste, try adding mushrooms and bok choy for an Asian-style twist. To make the dish more filling, add shredded chicken meat or noodles to turn it into a full meal.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve hot and store carefully to maintain freshness.
- Enjoy this chicken feet soup recipe with scallions, cilantro, or a splash of hot sauce.
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days or freeze for 6 months.
- The gelatin-rich broth will solidify when chilled—reheat gently to return it to liquid.
🥣 Nutrition & Benefits of Chicken Feet Soup
| Nutrient / Component | Key Benefit |
|---|---|
| Collagen | Supports joint flexibility and reduces stiffness |
| Gelatin | Improves skin elasticity and promotes healthy connective tissues |
| Amino Acids (glycine, proline) | Strengthen gut lining and aid in tissue repair |
| Calcium & Trace Minerals | Support bone health and overall mineral balance |
| Protein-Rich Broth | Provides sustained energy and helps with tissue building and recovery |
| Economical & Nourishing | Affordable, nutrient-dense meal ideal for regular consumption |
FAQs
Q: Are chicken feet safe to eat?
Yes — they’re safe and nutritious. Once cooked, the skin and tendons become tender and edible, while the bones are discarded after simmering.
Q: How do I clean chicken feet for soup?
Peel and trim thoroughly. Remove outer yellow skin, trim nails, and wash them well before blanching to ensure a clean, clear broth.
Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?
Absolutely. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes in an Instant Pot or 6–8 hours on low in a slow cooker for similar results.
Q: Why does the broth gel after chilling?
That’s the collagen. The gelatin-rich collagen solidifies when cooled — a sign of a nutrient-dense broth — and melts again when reheated.
Q: Can I add other proteins to this soup?
Yes. Add shredded chicken, turkey, or even tofu near the end of cooking to make a heartier, protein-packed meal.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
