How Long Does Chicken Broth Last?
Chicken Broth lasts 4-5 days when stored in the refrigerator. Freezing extends storage to 4-6 months. Discard if you notice sour or off smell or cloudy appearance or discoloration. Store properly to maximize freshness and safety.
Chicken Broth lasts 4-5 days when properly stored in the refrigerator. Check for signs of spoilage before consuming after this period.
Refrigerator
4-5 days
Pantry (Unopened)
12-18 months
After Opening
4-5 days
Freezer
4-6 months
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Can I Still Use This Chicken Broth?
Quick decision guide based on how you stored it:
In the fridge
Safe for 4-5 days. Check for spoilage signs before use.
In the fridge (opened)
Use within 4-5 days. Cover or seal to maintain freshness.
Left out at room temp
Pantry-stable for 12-18 months if sealed.
Left out at room temp (opened)
Opened and unrefrigerated — use immediately or discard after 2 hours.
In the freezer
Frozen quality maintained for 4-6 months. Safe indefinitely if kept at 0°F.
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Chicken Broth Shelf Life by Storage Method
| Storage Method | Duration | Safety Level |
|---|---|---|
| Pantry / Room Temp (Unopened) | 12-18 months | SAFE |
| After Opening | 4-5 days | CAUTION |
| Refrigerator | 4-5 days | CAUTION |
| Freezer | 4-6 months | SAFE |
About Chicken Broth
Chicken broth is a flavorful liquid made by simmering chicken bones, meat, and vegetables. Proper storage is essential to maintain its quality and safety, as broth can spoil quickly once opened or improperly stored.
Signs Chicken Broth Has Gone Bad
- Sour or off smell
- Cloudy appearance or discoloration
- Presence of mold or unusual texture
How to Store Chicken Broth Properly
- Store unopened chicken broth in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigerate opened broth in a sealed container immediately after use.
- Freeze broth in airtight containers or freezer bags for extended storage.
Safety Notes & Expiration Risks
Consuming spoiled chicken broth can cause foodborne illness. Always discard broth if it shows signs of spoilage or has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Common Questions About Chicken Broth Safety
Is chicken broth still safe after being left out overnight?
Chicken Broth that is shelf-stable and was sealed can generally be left out overnight without safety concerns. However, if it was opened or is a perishable variety, the USDA 2-hour rule applies — discard any perishable food left in the "danger zone" (40–140°F) for more than 2 hours.
Can you eat chicken broth that smells fine but is past its expiration date?
"Best by" and "sell by" dates on chicken broth typically indicate peak quality, not a hard safety cutoff. If chicken broth smells normal, shows no visible mold or discoloration, and has been stored properly, it is often safe shortly past the printed date. However, use your judgment and when in doubt, discard it.
Is freezer-burned chicken broth safe to eat?
Freezer burn on chicken broth is caused by air reaching the food's surface and causes dry, discolored patches. Freezer-burned chicken broth is safe to eat — it is a quality issue, not a safety issue. The affected areas may have an off flavor or dry texture. You can trim away freezer-burned portions before cooking. To prevent freezer burn, use airtight packaging and remove as much air as possible before freezing.
What does it mean if chicken broth has changed color or texture?
Minor color changes in chicken broth may be natural and do not always indicate spoilage. However, significant discoloration, mold growth, unusual sliminess, or a major texture change typically means the product has degraded. If the change is accompanied by an off smell, discard the product. When only the color has shifted slightly and everything else seems normal, the product may still be usable but is past peak quality.
Pro Tips
- Label opened broth containers with the date to track freshness.
- Use broth within 4-5 days of opening to ensure safety and flavor.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I keep unopened chicken broth on the shelf?
Unopened chicken broth can typically be stored for 12 to 18 months in a cool, dry place before the best-by date for optimal quality.
Can I freeze chicken broth after opening it?
Yes, freezing opened chicken broth in airtight containers can extend its shelf life up to 4 to 6 months without significant loss of flavor or quality.
Is it safe to consume chicken broth past its expiration date if it looks and smells fine?
While broth may still be safe shortly after the expiration date if stored properly, it is best to use sensory cues like smell and appearance to judge safety. When in doubt, discard to avoid risk of foodborne illness.