If you're looking for a versatile and easy way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals, 1 oz dry chicken broth, bouillon, or consommé can be a great option. One serving contains about 76 calories which makes it not only tasty but also a low-calorie option.

This product is made by simmering chicken bones and/or meat with vegetables and aromatics, then straining the liquid to create a concentrated flavor extract. It's a great way to add richness and umami flavor to soups, stews, sauces, and more. Chicken broth bouillon is also rich in protein, vitamins and minerals.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional profile, benefits, and practical tips for using chicken broth bouillon in your cooking and as a healthy beverage.

Rich Nutritional Profile of Chicken Broth Bouillon

Chicken broth bouillon is a rich source of protein, vitamins and minerals. One serving of 1 oz dry chicken broth provides approximately 9 grams of protein, which is equivalent to 18% of the daily recommended value for an adult. It's also a good source of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are essential for bone health, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Chicken broth bouillon contains B vitamins like niacin, thiamin, and riboflavin, which are important for energy production and metabolism. Overall, chicken broth bouillon can be a nutrient-dense addition to a healthy diet, especially for those who don't consume enough protein or minerals from whole foods.

How to Make Chicken Broth Consomme from Scratch

While dry chicken broth bouillon is a convenient and time-saving option, making your own chicken broth from scratch can be even more rewarding and flavorful. To make a simple chicken broth, start by roasting chicken bones and vegetables in the oven until they're golden brown. Then, simmer the roasted ingredients in a pot with enough water to cover them, along with herbs and spices like bay leaves, thyme, and peppercorns. Simmer for at least 2-3 hours, then strain the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth. If you want to make a clear and refined consommé, you can clarify the broth by whisking egg whites and ground meat into the liquid, then simmering and straining again. The result will be a crystal-clear broth with concentrated flavor and nutrients.

Low-Calorie Chicken Broth Bouillon Soup Recipes

One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to enjoy chicken broth bouillon is to make a healthy soup. Here is an example recipe: Chicken Noodle Soup. Ingredients: 1 oz dry chicken bouillon, 8 cups of water, 1 cup of cooked chicken breast, 2 cups of chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onion, garlic), 1 cup of uncooked whole-grain noodles, Salt and pepper to taste.

Chicken Broth Bouillon vs. Chicken Stock

One common question about chicken broth bouillon is how it differs from chicken stock. Both products are made by simmering chicken bones and/or meat with aromatics, but chicken stock is usually simmered longer and contains more gelatin and collagen from the bones, which makes it thicker and more viscous. Chicken broth bouillon is usually more concentrated and can be made from just the meat or bones, without vegetables or other ingredients. In general, chicken stock is more flavorful and nutritious but also more time-consuming to make. Chicken broth bouillon is a quick and easy way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals, without sacrificing taste or time.

Chicken Broth Bouillon as a Base for Flavorful Gravies and Sauces

Chicken broth bouillon can also be used as a base for flavorful gravies and sauces, which can elevate any dish with minimal effort. Here is a simple recipe for a basic chicken gravy: Ingredients: 1 oz dry chicken bouillon, 2 cups of water, 2 tbsp of butter or oil, 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour, Salt and pepper to taste.

Benefits of Drinking Chicken Broth Bouillon for Digestive Health

Chicken broth bouillon can also have specific benefits for digestive health, thanks to its high content of amino acids like glutamine and glycine. These amino acids have been shown to improve gut integrity and reduce inflammation, which can help prevent and alleviate digestive disorders like leaky gut, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and ulcerative colitis. If you have digestive issues or want to improve your overall gut health, drinking chicken broth bouillon regularly can be a healthy and delicious way to support your digestive system.

Chicken Broth Bouillon as a Hydrating Drink for Athletes

Chicken broth bouillon can also be a great alternative to sports drinks for athletes who need to stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes during and after exercise. One serving of 1 oz dry chicken bouillon provides about 900 mg of sodium and 100 mg of potassium, which are essential electrolytes that help regulate fluid balance and muscle function. Drinking chicken broth bouillon can also provide additional protein and other nutrients that sports drinks lack, making it a more balanced and nourishing option for active individuals.

Chicken Broth Bouillon as an Immune-Boosting Drink

Finally, chicken broth bouillon can have immune-boosting properties thanks to its content of glycine, arginine, and other amino acids that support immune function and tissue repair. Research also suggests that chicken broth bouillon can reduce inflammation in the body, which can improve immune health by reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Drinking chicken broth bouillon regularly can be a healthy and delicious way to support your immune system and overall well-being.

Is Chicken Broth Bouillon a Good Source of Protein?

Yes, chicken broth bouillon is a good source of protein, providing about 9 grams of protein per serving of 1 oz dry chicken broth. While this may not be enough to meet your daily protein needs, especially if you're very active or trying to build muscle, it can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet that includes other protein-rich foods like meat, fish, eggs, and legumes. Remember that protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, as well as for many other functions in the body, so it's important to consume enough of it on a regular basis.

Tips for Buying and Storing Chicken Broth Bouillon

When buying chicken broth bouillon, look for products that use high-quality ingredients and are free of additives like MSG, artificial flavors, and preservatives. You can also make your own chicken broth bouillon from scratch, using organic and pasture-raised chicken, if possible. To store dry chicken broth bouillon, keep it in an airtight container in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or moisture. It should last for several months, but check the expiration date and use it before it goes bad.