Best Packaged Chicken Stocks of 2026
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Packaged chicken stocks are a convenient and versatile ingredient for any home cook. These stocks come in a variety of flavors, from classic chicken to more exotic options like Thai or mushroom. They're perfect for adding depth and richness to soups, stews, sauces, and risottos. Plus, they're a great way to save time in the kitchen, as they eliminate the need for making stock from scratch. Packaged chicken stocks are also a healthier option than bouillon cubes, as they're typically lower in sodium and free of artificial flavors and preservatives.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
#TOP 1
9.9
#TOP 2
9.8
#TOP 3
9.6
Top 5 Packaged Chicken Stocks
Pacific Foods Organic Chicken Stock, Unsalted
Pacific Foods Chicken Stock is a must-have pantry staple for any home chef. Made by gently simmering meat, bones, and a combination of celery, carrots, and onions, this stock brings out rich and complex flavors. With its unsalted version, you can add a dash of extra flavor to your dishes, such as stir fry or braised chuck roast. It can also be used to make a delicious gravy by stirring in a little flour. This stock is not sodium-free but is a great option for those who prefer to control the sodium content in their meals. The convenient resealable carton ensures freshness and easy storage, making it a convenient choice for any kitchen.
Kitchen Basics Chicken Stock, 32 oz (Pack of 12)
Kitchen Basics Chicken Stock offers twelve 32 oz cartons of flavorful stock crafted from simmered chicken. This rich, full-bodied stock enhances your homemade meals with classic flavors of chicken, vegetables, and herbs. You’ll appreciate its gluten-free formulation, free from artificial flavors and added MSG, making it a healthier choice for your family. Plus, it contains 45% less sodium than many leading brands, allowing you to enjoy delicious dishes without the guilt. This versatile stock is perfect for sauces, soups, chilis, and casseroles, providing a convenient base for a variety of recipes.
Swanson Chicken Stock, 32 Oz Carton (Pack of 12)
Swanson Chicken Stock is a pack of twelve 32-ounce recyclable cartons made with 100% natural, non-GMO ingredients. This fat-free, gluten-free chicken stock is perfectly balanced with the flavors of farm-raised chicken, vegetables picked at the peak of freshness, and simple seasonings. It does not contain MSG, artificial flavors or colors, and preservatives. You can use Swanson Chicken Stock to add moisture and flavor to your entrees and side dishes, as a foundation for sauce or gravy, or to deglaze the pan after browning chicken. This must-have product is perfect for holiday cooking and adds a richer, elevated homemade flavor to chicken, turkey, ham, and more.
Swanson 100% Natural Chicken Stock, 32 oz
Swanson 100% Natural Chicken Stock is a fat-free, gluten-free and non-GMO product that contains no MSG, artificial flavors or preservatives. The stock features a perfectly balanced taste of farm-raised chicken, fresh vegetables, and simple seasonings. It can be used to add moisture and flavor to your entrees and side dishes, as a foundation for sauce or gravy, or to deglaze the pan after browning chicken. The stock is a must-have ingredient for your holiday cooking. It adds a rich, homemade flavor to your chicken, turkey, ham, and other dishes.
SWANSON S 100% Natural Organic Chicken Stock, 32 oz Carton
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is packaged chicken stock healthy?
Packaged chicken stock may not be the healthiest option. Many store-bought stocks and broths contain high amounts of sodium and may have questionable ingredients. It's important to read the labels and choose brands that offer low-sodium or organic options for a healthier choice.
2. Is it cheaper to make or buy chicken stock?
Making your own chicken stock can be both healthier and more cost-effective. With a few simple ingredients and cooking methods like stovetop, Crock Pot, or Instant Pot, you can create your own stock. This allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any unnecessary additives, making it a cheaper and healthier alternative to buying pre-packaged stocks from the store.
3. How much stock does 1 chicken make?
Using a whole raw chicken or chicken pieces, along with vegetables and herbs, you can make approximately 2 quarts (8 cups) of chicken broth. This homemade broth is not only delicious but also versatile for future use in soups, stews, and casseroles. You can store the excess broth by freezing it for later use.
During our packaged chicken stock research, we found 6 packaged chicken stock products and shortlisted 5 quality products. We collected and analyzed 109,298 customer reviews through our big data system to write the packaged chicken stocks list. We found that most customers choose packaged chicken stocks with an average price of $17.16.
The packaged chicken stocks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of packaged chicken stocks, including Pacific Foods, Kitchen Basics, SWANSON S. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!