Making my first stock... Help!!

[Casey44]

I tried to do as much research as possible before I started, but of course I'm already confused! I've never even cut up a whole fryer chicken before! I could only get it into like 4 or 5 pieces- is that ok for now or do I need to cut it up smaller?

And what about all that bloody stuff along the back bone- throw it in too? Everything goes in?

I'm going to remove the meat once it's cooked and then just leave the skin and bones, does that sound ok?

Thanks for helping the newbie!!

[Ruthla]

As long as the pot is large enough, you could even put the whole chicken in without cutting.

I usually rinse the chicken before cooking, so most of the bloody stuff washes off, and I don't worry about what I missed.

[Bri'sgirl]

If I'm using a whole chicken, I usually just put it in whole.

Good luck! Once you've made your first stock, the rest are easy!

[Casey44]

Oh, I should have saved myself the trouble and put it in whole! Oh well... Next time!!

Now I have another question that had come up. I think I put too much water. I just took the meat off and transferred the stock, bones and skin to the crock pot because I want it to go overnight. The crockpot is basically filled to the rim! Should I take some water out or just leave it? Also, does it need to be simmering (like bubbly)? I have it on almost the highest setting and it's just completely still but warm?!

Thanks again!!

[Bri'sgirl]

I'm sure the amount of water you are using is perfectly fine. I have a huge stock pot that I use, that holds at least 2-3 gallons of water or more. I have never tried making it in a crock pot, but I usually make sure the water is simmering, at least a little bubbly. How long have you had it in the crock pot? My crock pot usually takes at least a couple hours to get to the correct heat.

[larels]

I have found that if my crockpot is almost full when I start, after 20 hrs or so it is about an inch or two lower...and it does take a couple hours to get simmering!

[Casey44]

Ok, yes, it did finally get to simmering and it has gone down quite a bit! It smells SO good... I could smell it from our garage! Thanks again for all your help! I can see how it would be easy after the first time!