When it comes to cooking, chicken broth is the unsung hero of countless recipes. But which brands are worth buying? America’s Test Kitchen (ATK) has done the taste test for us, and the results might surprise you. Plus, I’ve got my own take on the best broth to keep in your pantry.

Why Chicken Broth Matters

Let’s be honest—chicken broth is one of those ingredients you grab without much thought. At least, that was true for me until I watched this video. Now, I realize it’s a flavor foundation for soups, stews, risottos, gravies, and so much more. Using the wrong broth can derail a dish, while the right one can elevate it to a whole new level.

America’s Test Kitchen Taste Test

ATK put 10 popular chicken broths to the test, judging them on flavor, texture, and overall appeal. Here’s the breakdown:

The Winners

Swanson & Swanson Organic: Highly recommended for their bright, umami-rich flavor and homemade taste.
Better Than Bouillon: ATK’s “Best Buy” for its concentrated flavor, versatility, and shelf life. It’s a kitchen workhorse that can live in your fridge for up to two years.

The Middling Options

Knorr Bouillon Cubes & College Inn: Recommended with reservations. Convenient, but lacking in flavor depth or texture.

The Losers

Zoup!, Progresso, Kettle & Fire, Kitchen Basics:
- Zoup! had an odd burnt flavor and turned risotto bright yellow.
- Progresso had fishy notes and an acidic aftertaste.
- Kitchen Basics was bland with no depth.
- Kettle & Fire lacked flavor despite its high price point.

My Thoughts

I have to say, Better Than Bouillon blew me away in this review. I’ve used it before but never truly appreciated its potential. Knowing it can stay in the fridge for years and yield 38 cups of broth makes it a no-brainer. It’s now my must-have for soups, stir-fries, and even gravies.

On the flip side, I was disappointed to see Knorr chicken broth cubes on the “recommended with reservations” list. They’ve been a go-to for me because they’re so easy to use. But after learning more, I’m excited to explore Swanson (including their Organic line) and make better choices moving forward.

Honestly, I never realized how important this ingredient is, but ATK made me see just how much it can affect a dish.

Pro Tips from ATK

Shelf Life Hero: Better Than Bouillon lasts up to two years, making it a smart pantry staple.
Avoid the “Glug”: When pouring boxed broth from Tetra Paks, keep the spout on top for a smooth, splash-free pour.
Brighten Dishes: Use a bit of concentrated broth in stir-fries or sauces to enhance flavor without adding too much liquid.

Your Turn

Let’s get a discussion going! I’d love to hear from you:

What’s your favorite unexpected way to use chicken broth?
Have you ever had a cooking disaster involving bad broth?
Do you make your own chicken broth at home? Any tips or recipes to share?

Let me know in the comments below—I can’t wait to read your thoughts!

Watch the Full Video

If you’re as curious as I was, check out the full taste test on America’s Test Kitchen’s YouTube channel:
The Best and Worst Supermarket Chicken Broths | The Taste Test. It’s a fascinating deep dive into a seemingly simple ingredient.