Slow Cooker Chicken & Turmeric Bone Broth
Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
In TCM, this broth is a classic Qi- and Blood-nourishing tonic. The combination of chicken, turmeric and warming spices gently strengthens the Spleen and Kidney, promotes circulation, and supports the body’s natural defences against Cold and Damp.
Slow cooking allows the Essence (Jing) from the bones to infuse into the broth which is a time-honoured way of replenishing energy, restoring strength and calming the mind.
It’s especially beneficial during colder months, post-illness recovery, or any time the body feels depleted.
You’ll Need
1 whole free-range chicken
1 tbsp turmeric powder
½ tsp paprika
1 tsp granulated garlic
1 tsp dried onions
1 tsp mixed Italian herbs (or rosemary, oregano and thyme)
Sea salt and black pepper to taste
1.25 litres of water per chicken, or enough to cover the bones
1 slow cooker large enough to fit a chicken(s)
Step 1 – Season
Lightly season the chicken with turmeric, garlic, onions, herbs, paprika, salt and pepper.
Instructions
Step 2 – Slow Cook
Place the chicken in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours, until tender and falling off the bone.
Remove the meat (use in soups or meals) & leave the bones in the pot.
Step 3 – Create the Bone Broth
Add 1.25 litres of water per chicken, ensuring the bones are fully covered.
Cook again on low overnight (10–12 hours) to extract minerals, collagen and marrow essence.
Step 4 – Strain and Store
In the morning, use a ladle to strain the broth through a fat separator jug, then pour into sterilised glass jars. Allow to cool completely before sealing the lids to prevent cracking.
Store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze in portions for later use.
Serving Suggestions:
Sip it warm as a daily tonic
Use as a base for soups, congee or grains
Add goji berries, ginger or shiitake mushrooms for extra nourishment
What the Research Says…
Harvard Health — “Savoring the Benefits of Bone Broth: Worth a Taste?”
By Joyce Hendley, Health Writer (March 4, 2025)
Read the full article here →Bone Broth Research — “Bone Broth Benefits: How Its Nutrients Fortify Gut Barrier in Health and Disease”
By A. Matar, N. Abdelnaem, and M. Camilleri (Digestive Diseases and Sciences, June 2025)
Read the full research paper here →
TCM Food Benefits
🐓 Chicken: strengthens & restores energy
🌿 Turmeric: eases inflammation & supports joint health
🧄 Garlic & Onion: boost immunity and aid digestion
🌱 Italian Herbs: gently support digestion and help balance the body
🔥 Paprika & Black Pepper: warm the body and stimulate circulation
💧 Sea Salt: replenishes minerals and helps balance hydration