How long does chicken broth last in the fridge? Well, it is not forever, for sure. After all, most times, we tend to prepare the broth and leave it forgotten at the back of the fridge for the longest time ever. Foremost, one must take time to appreciate the good old Chicken broth, which is versatile enough to be used in various recipes. Likewise, ensuring the dish has been appropriately stored in a nice airtight container and in the fridge is essential. This not only allows the user to be able to utilize the ingredient for various recipe preparations but also allows its freshness to retain as long as possible.
How long does chicken broth last? Before we get into the duration, we need to understand the dish’s importance and simplicity. Essentially, the Chicken Broth is a multipurpose superstar when it comes to being used in various recipes. One can use the item to prepare dishes like stew, Rice, and pasta. This is specially used in most Southern recipes, and one can simply not get enough of it. For some star dishes like Collard Pot Likker, Green beans can simply not taste the way they do if it were not for the Chicken broth.
Other than the flavor that it offers, the Chicken broth is also an excellent nutrition bomb. One can easily use it to whip up an instant soup or Ramen on a cold Winter night or when you need some nice ‘chicken soup for the soul.’ There are available in the market some of the most popular Chicken broths:
- Swanson Chicken Bone Broth
- Osso Good’s chicken stock
- Bare Bones Organic Classic Chicken Bone Broth
- College Inn Fat-Free Lower-Sodium Chicken Broth
- Epic Provisions Home-style Savory Chicken Bone Broth
How to Store Chicken Broth in the Fridge?
How long is chicken broth good in the fridge? This is an important question that you should know before you try and store the product. However, we can either prepare our Chicken broth at home or buy a store-bought product. So, you need to know that each type will have to be stored separately.
The Store Bought Chicken-broth
You should know that the entire game changes once the store-bought Chicken broth box has been opened. Once done, you need to ensure that you close the seal or the cap of the container properly and place it in the fridge. Keep in mind that once opened, the Chicken broth has a limited period to stay fresh and to be used. It can stay in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days after opening.
While it is alright to store the product in the container it arrived in, nevertheless, you need to make sure that it is in good condition and not damaged in any way; essentially, it should be in an ‘airtight’ condition.
However, if you need to be able to use the broth after a couple of more days in the future, it is advised to place it in an airtight container and keep it in the freezer. This way, it can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Factors Affecting the Shelf Life of Chicken Broth
Various factors affect the shelf life of Chicken Broth. This includes the type of Chicken Broth: fresh, store-bought, or frozen; the storage conditions and also the preparation methods. This is because, with time, the broth tends to develop odor, texture, and a different off-flavor that can affect the manner in which you can use the broth. As mentioned earlier, storing the product in an airtight container in the freezer is best if you wish for the broth to stay fresh for a longer time. As for storage, airtight containers with strong seals or even zip-lock bags work wonders. As for the store-bought Chicken Broth, the presence of preservatives makes it all the easier to last longer.
How Long Does Chicken Broth Last in the Fridge?
How long does homemade broth last in the fridge? Well, this greatly depends upon the type of broth as well. A well-made Chicken Broth can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. If you still want to extend the shelf-life, you can store it in the freezer for up to Six months.
Tips for Utilizing Leftover Chicken Broth
You will be surprised to know that there are plenty of ways to use the leftover Chicken Broth if you do not want it to stay in the fridge for too long.
1. 10-Minute Egg Drop Soup
Preparation
- Heat 1 cup chicken broth with 2 slices of fresh ginger till it simmers.
- Now take 1/4 cup of the broth and whisk it with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in a small bowl.
- Next, Whisk back into the pot and allow it to simmer for 1 minute.
- Whisk 1 large egg with 1 additional teaspoon of cornstarch.
- Keep the soup at a minimum simmer. Very slowly drizzle in egg while whisking.
- Allow to stand for 1 minute, then ladle into bowls and garnish with sliced scallions and a drizzle of soy sauce.
2. The Simplest Tortilla Soup
Preparation
- Heat about 1 cup of chicken broth until it simmers.
- Now add about 1/2 cup chopped or shredded cooked chicken and cook until it has warmed enough.
- Now remove from the heat and squeeze in the juice of 1/2 lime.
- Ladle into different bowls and top with crumbled tortilla chips, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
3. Noodle Soup
Preparation
- Heat about 1 cup of chicken broth until it simmers.
- Now Stir in a handful of udon, soba, or egg noodles, and simmer until cooked well enough.
- Stir in a bunch of chopped greens and cook until just wilted.
- Optional: Complete the dish with a little grated Parmesan and a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
It is advised to store the chicken broth in smaller portions when freezing, as you can simply remove it and use it without having to thaw the entire portion. This can spoil the product. Did you know pouring the broth into your Ice-Cube tray and freezing it is one of the most genius ways to ensure you get it right when using it as required? Simply pop out a couple of cubes and use them as required.
Properly Discarding Chicken Broth
There are times when you need to dispose of the Chicken broth properly, as it has gone bad, and you cannot use it for any recipe. The best way to do this is to simply pour it down the kitchen drain and allow the water from the tap to run through. It is also advisable to remove the Chicken pieces or any other debris from the broth and throw them into the dustbin before pouring the liquid part of the broth into the sink. Also, as a final run-down, you can pour some dishwashing soap and more water into the sink after all the broth has been discarded.
How Long Does Chicken Broth Last in the Fridge?: Conclusion
How long does chicken broth last in the refrigerator? Well, now you know some of the best ways to do so. This is one of the most well-used and versatile ingredients used in most Southern homes and recipes. It is best to have it ready to use in your refrigerator as you might not know when you might be in the mood for some nice hot, simmering recipe for those cold Winter nights. What is your best tip about storing Chicken Broth? Do let us know, and also share some recipes with us.
How Long Does Chicken Broth Last in the Fridge?: FAQ's
Question 1. Can you freeze chicken broth for long-term storage?
Answer: Yes, the chicken broth can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Question 2. How to properly thaw frozen chicken broth?
Answer: Take out the frozen broth and place it in the microwave-safe bowl. Next, set into the Defrost setting or a 30% low power for 3-5 minutes.
Question 3. Can you leave chicken broth out overnight and still use it?
Answer: No, you cannot.
Question 4. Is it safe to consume expired chicken broth?
Answer: No, it is not safe to consume expired chicken broth.
Question 5. Can you extend the shelf life of chicken broth with additives or preservatives?
Answer: Yes, the shelf life of the chicken broth can be increased by adding preservatives.
Question 6. How to tell if chicken broth has gone bad before use?
Answer: Yes, here are some of the signs:
- Smell: Sour smell means that the broth has gone bad.
- Color: If it is Yellowish or Brownish, then it has gone bad.
- Appearance: The presence of molds is a clear sign of a broth gone bad.
Question 7. Are there any health risks associated with consuming spoiled chicken broth?
Answer: Yes, Food poisoning and bad digestion are some health risks you can suffer from consuming spoiled chicken broth.