Campbell’s chicken broth is a pantry staple that delivers rich, savory flavor in seconds. Whether you’re making soup, cooking rice, or deglazing a pan, this broth adds depth without needing to simmer bones for hours. It’s a convenient, reliable base for countless recipes, and with a few simple techniques, you can make it taste homemade.
Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) Campbell’s chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) water (if using condensed broth)
- 1 small onion, diced (about 1/2 cup / 80 g)
- 1 celery stalk, diced (about 1/2 cup / 60 g)
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced (about 1/2 cup / 60 g)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil or butter
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the Campbell’s chicken broth and water (if using condensed broth; if using ready-to-use broth, skip the water). Add the bay leaf and thyme if using.
- Bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Use immediately or store as directed below.
Tips
- Condensed vs. ready-to-use: Campbell’s sells both condensed (add water) and ready-to-use broth. Check the label; if it says condensed, mix with equal parts water before using. If you use it undiluted, it will be very salty and intense.
- Reduce sodium: If you’re watching salt, choose the low-sodium version and season with salt sparingly, as the broth already contains salt.
- Boost flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce, a Parmesan rind, or a few fresh herbs like parsley or dill while simmering for extra depth.
- Don’t boil hard: Keep the broth at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, to avoid cloudiness and over-reduction.
Serving Suggestions
This broth is perfect as a light appetizer with crusty bread or crackers. Use it as a base for chicken noodle soup, add cooked rice or noodles, or use it to cook grains like quinoa or couscous. It also makes a great braising liquid for vegetables or chicken thighs.
Variations
- Herbed broth: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, and a parsley sprig for a garden-fresh flavor.
- Asian-style: Stir in a teaspoon of grated ginger, a splash of soy sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for heat.
- Tomato broth: Add a can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz / 411 g) and a teaspoon of dried basil for an Italian twist.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, pour into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays, leaving headroom for expansion; freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot (165°F / 74°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Campbell’s chicken broth as a substitute for chicken stock? Yes, broth and stock are often used interchangeably in recipes. Broth is typically seasoned, so adjust added salt accordingly. Stock may have a richer mouthfeel due to collagen, but broth works fine in most dishes.
Is Campbell’s chicken broth gluten-free? Most Campbell’s chicken broths are gluten-free, but always check the label because formulations can change. Some varieties may contain hydrolyzed wheat protein, so read the ingredient list if you have celiac disease.
How do I make it taste more homemade? Sauté aromatics like onion, celery, and carrot in butter or oil before adding the broth. Simmer with fresh herbs and a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar for brightness.
Can I use this broth to cook rice? Absolutely. Replace the water in your rice recipe with an equal amount of broth for flavorful rice. For every cup (180 g) of rice, use 1 3/4 cups (420 ml) of broth.
What’s the difference between condensed and ready-to-use broth? Condensed broth is concentrated and must be diluted with water (usually 1:1). Ready-to-use broth is already diluted and can be used as-is. Using condensed without water will be too salty and strong.
Is it safe to reheat broth multiple times? Reheat only the amount you plan to use, and bring it to a rolling boil or 165°F (74°C) each time. Repeated reheating can affect flavor and increase food safety risk; it’s best to reheat once.
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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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