Progresso chicken broth is a pantry staple that delivers rich, savory flavor in seconds. Whether you’re making soup, rice, or a quick pan sauce, this broth is a reliable base. But with a few simple additions, you can transform it into something even more delicious and tailored to your taste.
Ingredients
- 4 cups (960 ml) Progresso chicken broth
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup / 150 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced (about 1/2 cup / 65 g)
- 1 celery stalk, diced (about 1/2 cup / 60 g)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (optional)
- 2 tablespoons (8 g) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Pour in the Progresso chicken broth, then add the bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let the broth simmer gently, uncovered, for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Remove the bay leaf. Taste and add salt if needed (remember the broth is already seasoned).
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
- Substitute vegetables: Use leeks, fennel, or mushrooms in place of the classic mirepoix for a different flavor profile. Mushrooms add an earthy note.
- Storage: Cool the broth completely before refrigerating. It will keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Common mistake: Don’t boil the broth vigorously after adding the vegetables—a gentle simmer keeps it clear and prevents the vegetables from turning mushy.
- Boost flavor: For an even richer broth, add a Parmesan rind while simmering and remove before serving. This adds umami without extra salt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this upgraded broth as a light starter with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. It also makes a fantastic base for chicken noodle soup—just add cooked noodles and shredded chicken. For a heartier meal, stir in cooked white beans and a handful of baby spinach until wilted.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño with the garlic.
- Asian Twist: Replace the thyme with 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and a 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced. Garnish with green onions.
- Herb Garden: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or dill instead of thyme. Add them in the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Creamy Version: Stir in 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream at the end and heat through without boiling. This turns the broth into a velvety soup base.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftover broth in a sealed container within 2 hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions (ice cube trays or freezer-safe bags) for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot. If the broth has been frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-sodium Progresso broth?
Yes, absolutely. Low-sodium broth works perfectly; just adjust the salt at the end, as you may need to add more to taste.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. The flavor will be even deeper.
Can I add chicken meat to this broth?
Certainly. Add cooked, shredded chicken (about 2 cups / 280 g) during the last 5 minutes of simmering to warm it through. If using raw chicken, cook it separately to 165°F (74°C) before adding.
Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, dried herbs are more concentrated, so use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of 1/2 teaspoon if you prefer a stronger flavor. Add them earlier to allow rehydration.
Can I freeze this broth with the vegetables in it?
Yes, but the vegetables will soften upon thawing. If you want crisper vegetables, strain them out before freezing and add fresh ones when reheating.
How do I make this broth gluten-free?
Progresso chicken broth is gluten-free, but check the label to be sure. The recipe itself contains no gluten, so it’s safe for those with celiac disease.
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