Chicken broth can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator once opened or transferred from the can/box/carton into a storage container. If it was homemade, it may last 5-7 days. Some key factors that affect the shelf life are the ingredients, storage method, and temperature of the refrigerator.
Quick Summary
- Store-bought chicken broth lasts 3-4 days in the fridge once opened.
- Homemade chicken broth lasts 5-7 days in the fridge.
- Properly stored, unopened chicken broth lasts 9-12 months in the pantry.
- Freezing extends the shelf life significantly to 4-6 months for homemade and 6-12 months for store-bought.
- Signs broth has spoiled are off-smell, change in consistency, and mold growth.
How Long Does Unopened Chicken Broth Last?
An unopened container of store-bought or canned chicken broth can be stored in a cool, dark pantry and will last for 9-12 months. Check the “best by” or expiration date on the label for guidance. A best by date indicates the timeframe in which the broth will be at peak quality and flavor.
Properly stored, unopened homemade chicken broth can last 2-3 months in the freezer. Place broth in airtight freezer containers allowing headspace for expansion during freezing. Label containers with date and contents.
How Long Does Opened Chicken Broth Last in the Fridge?
Once opened, chicken broth should be transferred to an airtight container or jar and stored in the refrigerator. Follow these guidelines for maximum shelf life:
- Store-bought: Lasts 3-4 days
- Homemade: Lasts 5-7 days
The shelf life of opened chicken broth is shorter than unopened because exposure to air and higher refrigerator temperatures accelerate spoilage. Homemade broth keeps slightly longer because it does not contain preservatives.
Does Chicken Broth Go Bad?
Yes, chicken broth can go bad after the expiration date or if not properly stored. Signs of spoiled chicken broth include:
- Mold growing on surface
- Cloudy appearance
- Off odors
- Slimy texture
- Funny colors
If your chicken broth exhibits any signs of spoilage, it should be discarded. Consuming spoiled broth can cause foodborne illness.
How to Tell if Chicken Broth is Bad?
Here are some simple ways to tell if your chicken broth has gone bad:
Smell
Fresh broth has an aromatic, chicken-y smell. Spoiled broth will have an off, unpleasant odor.
Appearance
Good broth is transparent and free of debris. If broth becomes cloudy or moldy throw it out.
Texture
Broth should have a thin, liquid consistency. Discard if it becomes abnormally viscous or slimy.
Color
Toss if broth has an unnatural or funny color like blue, green, or pink discoloration.
Taste
Spoiled broth will have a noticeably off flavor. It may taste unpleasantly sweet or bitter if bacterial growth has occurred.
How to Store Chicken Broth
Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness and extending the shelf life of chicken broth. Follow these tips:
- Refrigerate opened chicken broth in airtight containers and use within 3-7 days.
- Store unopened, shelf-stable chicken broth in a cool, dry pantry and use within 9-12 months.
- Freeze for long term storage. Chicken broth lasts 4-6 months in the freezer.
- Put hot broth directly into freezer containers – no need to cool first.
- Leave 1-inch headspace in containers to allow for expansion.
Can You Freeze Chicken Broth?
Absolutely! Freezing is an excellent way to preserve fresh chicken broth and extend the shelf life. Broth can be frozen:
- In freezer bags: Lay flat to freeze and remove excess air
- Ice cube trays: Transfer to airtight container once frozen
- Muffin tins: Same as ice cubes
- Silicone molds: Flexible for easy removal
- Airtight plastic containers
Frozen homemade chicken broth keeps 4-6 months in the freezer. Store-bought broth lasts even longer at 6-12 months due to preservatives.
Thawing Chicken Broth
Thaw frozen broth overnight in the refrigerator. You can also thaw in the microwave using the defrost setting or in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes until thawed.
Avoid thawing at room temperature as this allows bacteria to grow. Discard any leftover thawed broth after using.
Does Chicken Broth Need to be Refrigerated?
Refrigeration is necessary to keep chicken broth safe and fresh after opening. An opened container of chicken broth should always be stored in the fridge in an airtight container.
Unopened, shelf-stable chicken broth can be kept in the pantry until the expiration date. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3-7 days for safety.
Can Chicken Broth be Frozen and Refrigerated Multiple Times?
It’s best to avoid freezing chicken broth more than 1-2 times. The thawing and re-freezing process can degrade the flavor and quality of the broth over time.
Each time chicken broth is thawed and refrozen, ice crystals can form which damages the texture. Re-freezing also increases risk of bacterial contamination.
Instead of re-freezing, consider refrigerating leftover broth for 3-4 days after initially thawing instead.
Cooking with Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is a versatile ingredient that can be used to enhance the flavor of many dishes:
Soups
Use as the base for chicken noodle soup, minestrone, turkey chili, and more.
Rice or Quinoa
Cook grains in broth instead of water for extra flavor.
Sauces and Gravies
Thicken broth with a roux to make a tasty sauce or gravy for meats.
Roasted Vegetables
Toss chopped veggies with broth before roasting for additional moisture.
Braised Meats
Braise tough meats like chicken thighs in broth for tenderness.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Chicken Broth
How does homemade broth compare to store-bought? Here’s a breakdown:
| Homemade | Store-bought | |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Rich, concentrated chicken flavor | Lighter, less intense flavor |
| Shelf life | 5-7 days opened | 3-4 days opened |
| Sodium content | Lower sodium | Can be high in sodium |
| Cost | Cheap to make at home | More expensive to buy |
| Ingredients | All natural | May contain preservatives and additives |
| Convenience | Requires several hours to prepare | Ready to use from the container |
Both homemade and store-bought chicken broth have their perks. Homemade has superior flavor but requires more effort. Store-bought is convenient but may have more sodium and preservatives.
Conclusion
Chicken broth can last 3-7 days in the refrigerator after opening. The shelf life depends on whether it is homemade or store-bought. Proper storage in airtight containers and freezing extends the shelf life significantly. Check for signs of spoilage before consuming older broth. Discard if you notice off-smells, texture changes, or sliminess.
