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

Chicken bone broth has become hugely popular in recent years due to its many health benefits and versatility in cooking. But with so many options available, where should you buy chicken bone broth to get the best quality and value? This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know to find the perfect chicken bone broth for your needs.

What is Chicken Bone Broth?

Chicken bone broth is made by simmering chicken bones and connective tissue in water for an extended period of time, usually 12-24 hours. This long cooking time allows the bones to release gelatin, minerals, and other nutrients into the broth. The result is a nourishing liquid that forms the basis of many soups, stews, and sauces.

Homemade chicken bone broth has superior flavor and nutrition compared to store-bought versions However, it requires a significant time investment For busy home cooks, buying pre-made chicken bone broth can be a convenient alternative.

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 soothes the digestive tract and aids gut healing Bone broth is beneficial for conditions like leaky gut syndrome

• Support for the joints: Collagen from chicken bones helps keep bones and joints healthy. 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.

• Gain or lose weight: Bone broth’s high protein content speeds up your metabolism and makes you feel 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

There are more artisanal, small-batch chicken bone broths to choose from at natural food stores and butcher shops. 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

How do you decide which chicken bone broth to buy when there are so many options? Here are some things to think about:

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.