Since the pot you cook chicken stock in is hot should be sterile so it OK to let cool slowly as long stays covered?

It is not okay to let the pot of chicken stock cool slowly as long as it stays covered. While the pot being hot may help to sterilize it, it is important to cool the stock quickly to prevent the growth of bacteria. Cooling the stock slowly can create a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive, potentially leading to foodborne illness.

To safely cool chicken stock, it is recommended to place the pot in an ice bath or sink filled with cold water. Stirring the stock frequently will help to speed up the cooling process. Once the stock has cooled to room temperature, it should be transferred to airtight containers and refrigerated or frozen for later use.