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.

NRQi Studio's recipe for bone broth to support with health and wellness from a TCM perspective.

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)

A variety of spices and seasonings to make NRQi Studio's recipe for bone broth to support with health and wellness from a TCM perspective.

Step 1 – Season
Lightly season the chicken with turmeric, garlic, onions, herbs, paprika, salt and pepper.

Instructions

Preparing the chicken for NRQi Studio's recipe for bone broth to support with health and wellness from a TCM perspective.

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.

Slow cooking the chicken for NRQi Studio's recipe for bone broth to support with health and wellness from a TCM perspective.

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.

NRQi Studio's recipe for bone broth to support with health and wellness from a TCM perspective.

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.

NRQi Studio's recipe for bone broth to support with health and wellness from a TCM perspective.

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

NRQi Studio's recipe for bone broth to support with health and wellness from a TCM perspective.

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