Chicken Broth — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Chicken broth photo

Listonic Team

September 4, 2024

Chicken broth is a flavorful base for soups and sauces and offers various health benefits, such as supporting immune function. Understand how to make your own chicken broth or choose the best store-bought versions, and learn about its nutritional properties.

Nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of chicken broth, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 17 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs1 g0.36%
Fiber0 g-
Sugars0 g-
Glycemic Index0 -
Protein3 g6%
Sodium140 mg6.09%
Total Fat1 1.28%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes chicken broth stand out:

17

🍏 Low-Calorie Foods

Key takeaways

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Look for low-sodium chicken broth with natural ingredients.
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Store unopened cans or cartons of chicken broth in a cool, dark location for up to 1-2 years. After opening, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate, using within 4-5 days. Homemade broth should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 days or frozen for up to 6 months.

Health benefits

Discover how chicken broth can be a comforting and nourishing option, promoting hydration and digestive health.
  • Supports digestive health due to its easy-to-digest nature and nutrients that soothe the gut lining.
  • Rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which support overall health and well-being.
  • Promotes hydration, providing a flavorful way to increase fluid intake.
  • May support joint health due to its collagen content, which helps maintain healthy joints and connective tissues.

Health risks

Understand the risks and health concerns associated with chicken broth.
  • High sodium content in many commercial varieties, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
  • Potential for preservatives and additives in store-bought broths, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
  • Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria if homemade broth is not properly prepared or stored.
  • Low protein content in some broths, which may not provide significant nutritional benefits compared to other protein sources.
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How to choose chicken broth

Choose chicken broth that has a clear appearance and a rich, savory aroma. It should list chicken as a primary ingredient and be low in sodium. Look for broth that uses organic chicken and natural seasonings for the healthiest option.

Do not buy chicken broth that appears cloudy or has sediment at the bottom, as this can suggest over-processing or poor quality. Good chicken broth should enhance dishes with a balanced flavor without overpowering other ingredients.

How to choose chicken broth

How to store chicken broth

After opening, chicken broth should be refrigerated. Store it in a sealed container to preserve its taste and prevent any contamination. When properly stored, chicken broth can remain fresh for about 4-5 days.

Exposure to light and air can diminish the quality of chicken broth. It’s advisable not to keep it in the original can after opening, as this may alter the flavor. For extended storage, consider freezing the broth in smaller portions, which can keep it good for up to 6 months, ensuring it stays fresh and ready for use.

✅ Extra Tip

For easy use, freeze chicken broth in ice cube trays; this allows you to thaw only the amount needed, reducing waste and keeping the rest fresh.

How long does it last?

Chicken broth can last for 4-5 days in the refrigerator once opened. Unopened, it can last for 1-2 years when stored in a cool, dark place. For longer storage, chicken broth can be frozen for up to 6 months.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover chicken broth can be used in a variety of dishes. Use it as a base for soups, stews, or chili, where its rich flavor adds depth to the dish. Chicken broth is also great for cooking grains like rice, quinoa, or couscous, infusing them with extra flavor.

Use chicken broth in a sauce or gravy for meats, or add it to a braising liquid for slow-cooked dishes. If you have a lot of chicken broth, consider freezing it in portions to use later or reducing it to make a concentrated stock. Chicken broth can also be used to deglaze pans after cooking meats, capturing all the flavorful bits stuck to the pan. For a simple, nourishing meal, sip chicken broth on its own or use it to cook vegetables or noodles.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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How chicken broth supports specific health conditions

Chicken broth is rich in collagen, supporting joint health by maintaining cartilage and reducing joint pain. It also contains amino acids, which promote muscle health and tissue repair. Chicken broth is hydrating and easy to digest, making it beneficial for digestive health. Additionally, its mineral content, such as calcium and magnesium, supports bone health, while its immune-boosting properties make it a helpful remedy during cold or flu recovery.

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