
Chicken Stock
Chicken stock is a flavorful liquid base used in countless recipes. It's made by simmering chicken bones, meat scraps, and aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery in water for an extended period. This process extracts collagen and nutrients, resulting in a rich, golden broth. Good quality chicken stock is characterized by its savory, umami flavor and can range from light and delicate to deeply concentrated, depending on the ingredients and simmering time. Use homemade chicken stock for the best flavor or choose a low-sodium, all-natural store-bought option. It's a kitchen staple for adding depth and richness to various dishes.
Common Uses
- Used as a flavorful base for soups and stews: Chicken stock elevates the taste of virtually any soup or stew, providing a savory foundation for vegetables, meats, and grains to simmer and meld together.
- Enhances the flavor of sauces and gravies: It serves as an excellent ingredient to deglaze pans and create rich, flavorful sauces and gravies for roasted meats, poultry, or vegetables.
- Perfect for cooking grains and vegetables: Chicken stock can be used instead of water to cook rice, quinoa, or other grains, imparting a subtle savory flavor and adding extra nutrients. It also enhances the taste of steamed or braised vegetables.
- Excellent braising liquid for meats: Chicken stock is a classic choice for braising tough cuts of meat, tenderizing them over low heat while infusing them with its rich flavor.
- Adds flavor to risotto: When slowly added to Arborio rice, chicken stock provides the necessary moisture and creamy texture to make perfect risotto.
- Used to make sauces and pan sauces: Chicken stock provides the base notes and the viscosity of many sauces. Chicken stock is a staple when making pan sauces for poultry and fish.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
10.0kcal (0.5%)
Protein
0.8g (1.6%)
Carbs
1.0g (0.36%)
Sugars
0.1g (0.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.2g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
10.0kcal (0.5%)
Protein
0.8g (1.6%)
Carbs
1.0g (0.36%)
Sugars
0.1g (0.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.2g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in collagen, potentially supporting joint health and skin elasticity.
- Contains electrolytes like sodium and potassium, aiding in hydration.
- Source of amino acids, the building blocks of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- May help soothe cold and flu symptoms due to its warm temperature and easily digestible nutrients.
- Low in calories and fat, making it a healthier alternative to creamy sauces and soups.
- Supports gut health with easily digestible nutrients.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Chicken stock should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Once opened, commercially prepared stock typically lasts for 5-7 days in the fridge. Homemade stock should be cooled quickly and used within 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze chicken stock in airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Frozen stock can maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months. You can also freeze the stock in ice cube trays for small portions.
Chefadora AI is Here.
Experience smarter, stress-free cooking.
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia