Does Chicken Broth Go Bad

Jump to:

• What Is a Chicken Broth?
• Does Chicken Broth Actually Expire?
• How Do You Tell if Chicken Broth Is Bad?
• How Long Is Packaged Chicken Broth Good for After Opening?
• Does Unopened Chicken Broth Go Bad?
• Does Homemade Chicken Broth Go Bad?
• How Long Does Chicken Broth Last In The Fridge? 
• What Happens if You Eat Expired Chicken Broth?
• How Do You Store Chicken Broth Long-Term?
• What Is the Best Way to Freeze Chicken Broth?
• What Food Goes Well With Chicken Soup?
• Does Chicken Broth Go Bad  

What Is a Chicken Broth?

Chicken broth is a fundamental ingredient in cooking, known for its ability to elevate the flavor profile of various dishes.

It is a clear, thin liquid typically made by simmering chicken parts such as bones, meat, and vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery.

The onions add a depth of flavor to the broth and contribute to its rich aroma.

This wholesome and delicious broth can serve as the foundation for soups, stews, sauces, and gravies, or it can be enjoyed as a soothing, heat-inducing beverage.

Does Chicken Broth Actually Expire?

Chicken broth has a shelf life that varies based on its packaging and storage conditions. The factors that cause chicken broth to go bad include exposure to air, bacteria, and fluctuating temperatures.

Once exposed to air, the broth can grow harmful bacteria, especially if not refrigerated promptly.

Moreover, if the broth is stored in fluctuating temperatures, it could lead to spoilage. Fat in chicken stock can also turn rancid over time, impacting the broth's quality and safety.

How Do You Tell if Chicken Broth Is Bad?

Here's a straightforward guide on how to tell if chicken broth has gone bad:

1. Check the Expiry Date: The first thing you should do is check the expiry date on the package. If it's past the date, the broth has likely gone bad.
2. Perform a Smell Test: A smell test is one of the most reliable ways to determine if your chicken broth has spoiled. The fresh broth should have a mild, pleasant smell. It probably needs improvement if the broth smells sour, rancid, or off.
3. Look for Changes in Color: Fresh chicken broth should be light golden. It may be spoiled if it has darkened significantly or developed a cloudy appearance.
4. Examine for Mold: If you see green or black spots in the broth, especially if they're fuzzy, it's mold. Discard the broth immediately.
5. Taste Test (only if other tests are passed): If the chicken broth passes the previous tests, you can taste a small amount. If it tastes stale or off, it probably needs improvement.
6. Assess the Texture: If the broth feels slimy or gooey, it's a sign of bacterial growth, and you should throw it away.

Is It Normal for Chicken Broth to Have White?

Yes, it is normal for chicken broth to have white in it. This can be due to a few things. One reason could be the presence of fat that has emulsified into the liquid, giving it a milky white or pale yellow appearance.

The second reason could be the formation of white foam or bubbles when the broth is boiled at high temperatures. This foam is typically grease and is not harmful, but some prefer to remove it for aesthetic reasons.

Finally, cloudiness in the broth can also appear white, but this is not a sign of spoilage unless accompanied by a sour smell or a swollen container.

How Long Is Packaged Chicken Broth Good for After Opening?

Commercially purchased chicken broth usually has a lifespan that varies from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the manufacturer and packaging.

Once opened, if chicken broth is left out at room temperature, it should be consumed within 2 hours as bacteria multiply quickly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F.

If the temperature is above 90 °F, the broth should be consumed within an hour.

Properly frozen, the broth can retain its quality for up to 6 months. Canned chicken broth lasts similarly. It's important to note that these time frames largely depend on proper storage conditions.

Does Unopened Chicken Broth Go Bad?

Unopened chicken broth can go bad, but it typically has a long shelf life.

Most brands of boxed chicken broth will remain safe to use for up to one year past their best-by date, provided they have been stored correctly.

It is always important to check the manufacturer's estimate on the package. Proper storage involves keeping the canned or boxed chicken broth in a dry place, such as a kitchen cabinet.

Remember, these time frames are broad estimates, and the actual lifespan can differ based on the particular brand and how it's stored.

Does Homemade Chicken Broth Go Bad?

Homemade chicken broth only lasts for a short time at room temperature. Consuming it within two hours of preparation is safe if left at room temperature.

Beyond that, bacteria can multiply rapidly, making it unsafe to eat. Therefore, it's highly recommended to refrigerate or freeze the broth as soon as possible after preparation.

If you accidentally leave it out overnight, it's generally unsafe to consume. The homemade broth can be kept safe and fresh in the freezer for up to three months. 

How Long Does Chicken Broth Last In The Fridge? 

There are several factors to consider regarding the lifespan of chicken broth in the refrigerator.

If stored in a sealed container, a box of chicken broth can retain its best quality for about 4 to 5 days once opened. On the other hand, homemade chicken broth will typically last around 3-4 days when stored under similar conditions.

The key to maintaining the freshness and quality of the broth is to ensure that it's stored correctly and used within the recommended time frame.

What Happens if You Eat Expired Chicken Broth?

Consuming spoiled chicken broth can lead to food poisoning. Symptoms may include abdominal cramping, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes, fever.

The risk of sickness increases if the broth has been stored improperly or consumed past its printed expiration date.

However, if unopened chicken broth is stored properly — in a cool, dry place — it can last up to a year past the printed date.

How Do You Store Chicken Broth Long-Term?

Here's a guide on how to store chicken broth long-term:

Storing Unopened Chicken Broth:

1. Store-bought broth: Unopened, store-bought chicken broth can be kept in a dry and cool place like a pantry or cupboard. Make sure the area is away from direct sunlight.
2. Check the expiration date: Even though most store-bought broths can be stored for a year past their printed date, always check the expiration date before using it.

Storing Opened Chicken Broth:

1. Refrigeration: Once opened, chicken broth should be stored in the refrigerator. It will generally last for 4-5 days.
2. Airtight container: Transfer the opened chicken broth into an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This also prevents other flavors in the fridge from affecting the broth.

Storing Homemade Chicken Broth:

1. Use a lidded pot: After making your homemade chicken broth, let it cool down and then transfer it into a lidded pot.
2. Refrigeration: Store the lidded pot in the refrigerator. Homemade chicken broth can usually be kept for about a week.

What Is the Best Way to Freeze Chicken Broth?

Here is a step-by-step guide on the best way to freeze chicken broth:

1. Cool The Broth: After preparing your chicken broth, let it cool down completely. This step is important as it prevents the growth of bacteria that could spoil your broth.
2. Portion The Broth: Pour the cooled chicken broth into ice cube trays. Ice cube trays allow you to freeze the broth in manageable, small portions. This way, you can avoid thawing more broth than you need at any given time.
3. Freeze The Broth: Place the ice cube trays with the broth in the freezer. Ensure that the trays are level to prevent spillage. Let the broth freeze solid. Depending on your freezer settings, this may take a few hours.
4. Transfer The Frozen Broth: Once the broth is completely frozen, remove the broth cubes from the ice cube tray. Be careful not to leave them out too long, as they can start to melt and stick together.
5. Store The Frozen Broth: Transfer the frozen cubes into a freezer bag, expelling as much air as possible before sealing the bag. This step is crucial in preventing freezer burn, which could degrade the quality and flavor of your broth.
6. Label The Bag: Remember to label your freezer bag with the date. Chicken broth can be safely stored in the freezer for two to three months. Beyond this period, the broth may begin to lose its flavor.
7. Thaw As Needed: When using the broth, remove as many cubes as needed from the freezer bag and thaw them. If you're cooking, you can thaw the frozen broth in the microwave or directly in the pot.

What Food Goes Well With Chicken Soup?

1. Rosemary Bread: This no-knead bread is a perfect partner for Thai chicken soup. The aromatic rosemary marries perfectly with the hearty flavors of the soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, the melt-in-your-mouth cheese and crispy bread make this an excellent side dish.
3. Vegetable Panini: This sandwich option offers a healthy balance to the meat in the soup. It's also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.
4. Italian Bread and Salad: Chicken soup with good Italian bread and a simple green avocado salad can turn your soup into a balanced meal.
5. Buttery Biscuits: Soft, fluffy biscuits with a hint of butter can add a comforting touch to a serving of chicken soup.
6. Chicken Club Sandwich: Stacked high with pan-seared chicken breast and bacon, this sandwich pairs wonderfully with chicken soup, adding an extra layer of meaty satisfaction.