Kirkland Signature chicken broth from Costco is a pantry staple for many home cooks: it’s a rich, savory, shelf-stable broth made from real chicken stock, and it comes in a convenient 6-quart pack of tetra paks. This article shows you how to get the most out of it, from simple upgrades to full recipes, and answers the most common questions about using and storing it.
Ingredients
- 6 cups (1.4 L) Kirkland chicken broth
- 1 medium yellow onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
- 2 celery stalks, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp (2 g) black peppercorns
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 cup (180 g) orzo pasta (or other small pasta)
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp / 30 ml)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the Kirkland chicken broth, then add the bay leaf and peppercorns. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard. Using a slotted spoon, remove the large vegetable chunks (they have given their flavor; you can compost them or save them for another use).
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the broth back to a rolling boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions (usually 8–10 minutes) until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the baby spinach and frozen peas. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the peas are heated through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Taste and add salt if needed (the broth is already salted, so go easy).
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot. If you like, top with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Don’t double-salt: Kirkland broth is already seasoned. Always taste before adding salt, especially if you’re reducing the broth or adding salty ingredients like soy sauce or Parmesan.
- Boost the flavor: If the broth tastes flat, add a splash of soy sauce, a piece of Parmesan rind, or a teaspoon of tomato paste while simmering. These add umami without overpowering.
- Use it for grains: Substitute Kirkland broth for water when cooking rice, quinoa, or couscous. It adds depth to any grain dish.
- Freeze in portions: If you don’t use a whole tetra pak, pour the leftover broth into ice cube trays or freezer bags. Frozen broth cubes are perfect for deglazing pans or adding to sauces.
Serving Suggestions
This broth-based soup is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a crusty baguette and a green salad for a light dinner. For a heartier meal, add shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked white beans along with the pasta. It also makes a great starter for a multi-course meal.
Variations
- Chicken Noodle Soup: Replace orzo with egg noodles and add 2 cups (280 g) of shredded cooked chicken in step 5.
- Vegetable Soup: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans along with the pasta for extra vegetables.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a minced jalapeño in step 1 for heat.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in 1/4 cup (15 g) of chopped fresh parsley or dill just before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The orzo will absorb liquid as it sits, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbling, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the pasta if possible, as pasta becomes mushy) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kirkland chicken broth the same as chicken stock? No, but they are similar. Stock is made primarily from bones, while broth is made from meat and vegetables. Kirkland’s product is labeled “chicken broth” and is lighter in body than a traditional stock, but it works well for soups and cooking.
How long does Kirkland chicken broth last after opening? Once opened, the broth should be refrigerated and used within 4–5 days. The tetra pak is shelf-stable until opened, but after opening it must be kept cold.
Can I freeze Kirkland chicken broth? Yes, absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container or ice cube trays. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or microwave.
Is Kirkland chicken broth gluten-free? Yes, the regular Kirkland chicken broth is gluten-free (check the label, as formulations can change). It does not contain wheat, barley, or rye.
Can I use Kirkland broth in place of water for cooking rice? Yes, and it’s a great way to add flavor. Use a 1:1 ratio of broth to rice, and reduce any salt in the recipe since the broth is already salted.
Why does my broth have a layer of fat on top? That’s normal. When chilled, the fat solidifies on the surface. You can skim it off and discard, or stir it back in for extra richness. If you want a clearer broth, skim the fat before using.
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Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
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