Where to Buy Chicken Bone Broth: A Guide to the Best Brands and Stores

In recent years, chicken bone broth has become very popular because it is good for you and can be used in a lot of different ways. There are a lot of places to buy chicken bone broth, so where should you go for the best quality and value? This detailed guide tells you everything you need to know to find the best chicken bone broth for your needs.

What is Chicken Bone Broth?

To make chicken bone broth, you simmer chicken bones and connective tissue in water for a long time, usually between 12 and 24 hours. Because the bones are cooked for so long, gelatin, minerals, and other nutrients can be released into the broth. This makes a healthy liquid that is the base for many soups, stews, and sauces.

While homemade chicken bone broth tastes and is healthier than store-bought versions, it takes a lot of time to make. For busy home cooks, buying chicken bone broth that has already been made can be a convenient option.

Benefits of Chicken Bone Broth

There are many excellent reasons to incorporate chicken bone broth into your routine:

• Gut health: The gelatin in bone broth calms the digestive tract and helps the gut heal. Bone broth can help with conditions like leaky gut syndrome.

• Joint support – Collagen from chicken bones promotes healthy joints and bones. It may even relieve joint pain.

• Immune boosting – Bone broth contains amino acids like proline and glycine that support immune function. Regular consumption may help you fight illness.

• Weight loss – Protein-rich bone broth boosts metabolism and keeps you feeling full. Replacing unhealthier liquids with broth can aid weight loss.

• Skin, hair, and nails – Collagen improves the appearance of skin, hair, and nails from the inside out. Bone broth can give you a youthful glow.

Where to Buy Chicken Bone Broth

You can purchase chicken bone broth from grocery stores, big box retailers, specialty shops, and online:

Grocery Stores

Most supermarkets now carry chicken bone broth, often in the soup aisle. Mainstream brands like Swanson and store brands are affordable options. However, these tend to contain preservatives and other additives.

For higher quality, check the refrigerator section for fresh broths without artificial ingredients. Organic and free-range varieties may also be available. Expect to pay $5-10 for a 32 oz carton of refrigerated chicken bone broth.

Big Box Retailers

Stores like Costco and Sam’s Club offer chicken bone broth in large, budget-friendly quantities. A 64 oz carton of Kirkland Signature Organic Chicken Bone Broth at Costco costs just $7.99. Mass merchandise stores like Target and Walmart also carry an assortment of chicken bone broths.

Specialty Stores

Natural food stores and butcher shops provide more options for artisanal, small-batch chicken bone broths. These are produced in small quantities and packed with flavor. Prices range from $10-15 for a 16-32 oz container. Popular brands include Kettle & Fire, Bonafide, and Osso Good.

Online

The internet opens up a world of chicken bone broth choices. Online retailers like Amazon and Thrive Market have the biggest selection. You can find niche broth brands you won’t see in stores. Order non-perishable shelf-stable varieties for convenient delivery right to your door.

Buying chicken bone broth online also allows you to purchase in bulk for savings. Stock up on multi-packs of your favorite broth. Prices per unit are often lower when you buy 6 or 12 at once.

Factors to Consider When Buying Chicken Bone Broth

With so many options for chicken bone broth, how do you choose? Here are the key factors to consider:

Ingredients

Check the ingredients list for clues to broth quality. Look for chicken bones, meat, and vegetables. Avoid broths with MSG, preservatives, and excessive sodium. Seeking out organic, free-range, and non-GMO ingredients can provide superior nutrition and flavor.

Preparation Method

The cooking time and process impact the collagen content of the broth. Look for chicken bone broth simmered for at least 12-24 hours. Quick-cooked or instant broths don’t extract as much gelatin from the bones.

Packaging

Broth sold in aseptic shelf-stable cartons or jars doesn’t require refrigeration until opening. This offers convenience but potentially less freshness. Vacuum-sealed refrigerated cartons and frozen containers better preserve nutrients.

Flavor

Taste the broth before buying whenever possible. Quality chicken bone broth should taste clean, meaty, and well-seasoned. Weak flavor indicates subpar ingredients and preparation.

Price

In general, you get what you pay for with chicken bone broth. Very cheap broth likely uses low-quality bones cooked quickly. But boutique brands can be overpriced. Find the sweet spot based on your budget and needs.

4 Best Store-Bought Chicken Bone Broth Brands

After extensive tasting tests, these are the top pre-made chicken bone broth brands:

Kettle & Fire – This shelf-stable broth shines for its exceptionally clean, homemade flavor. Slow-simmering brings out rich chicken essence. A great pantry staple broth.

Bonafide Provisions – Their frozen broths use humanely raised chickens and long cook times for superior collagen content. Thick and nourishing.

Osso Good – Locally-made in California, these broths contain thoughtfully sourced ingredients and intense chicken flavor. Sold refrigerated or frozen.

Pacific Foods – The organic free-range chicken bone broth is available widely in stores and tastes fresher than many mass-market options. A quality affordable pick.

Making Your Own Chicken Bone Broth

For the ultimate quality and cost savings, making your own chicken bone broth is rewarding. To get started:

• Gather chicken bones – backs, necks, and feet work well. Use raw or roasted bones.

• Place bones in a pot and cover with water by 2-3 inches. Add veggies like onion, celery, carrots, and herbs.

• Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 12-24 hours, skimming fat and adding water as needed.

• Strain out solids and cool. Skim off fat before use.

Homemade broth can be portioned and frozen for convenient use all month long in all your favorite recipes!

Get the Most from Your Chicken Bone Broth

However you procure it, incorporate chicken bone broth into your cooking routine. Sip it straight as a warm beverage, use it as the base for soups and sauces, or add it to grain bowls and smoothies. Buying the best quality broth for your budget will ensure you reap all the tasty and nutritious benefits. Experiment with different brands and styles to find your new kitchen staple.