How Big Is a Can of Chicken Broth? Exploring Standard Sizes and Measurements

AvatarByCynthia Crase Soup & Stew

When it comes to cooking, having the right ingredients in the right amounts can make all the difference. One pantry staple that often finds its way into soups, stews, sauces, and countless recipes is chicken broth. But have you ever paused to consider just how big a can of chicken broth typically is? Understanding the size of a can can help you better plan your meals, avoid waste, and ensure your dishes turn out perfectly every time.

Chicken broth cans come in various sizes, each suited to different cooking needs and recipe requirements. Whether you’re preparing a small family dinner or a large batch of soup for a gathering, knowing the volume contained in a standard can can streamline your grocery shopping and kitchen prep. This seemingly simple detail can influence everything from portion control to storage and even nutritional calculations.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the typical sizes of canned chicken broth, compare common packaging options, and offer tips on how to use these measurements effectively in your cooking. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect when you reach for that can on the shelf and how to make the most of it in your culinary adventures.

Standard Sizes of Cans for Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is commonly sold in a variety of can sizes, tailored to suit different cooking needs and recipe requirements. Understanding these standard sizes can help you better plan your meals and ensure you have the right amount of broth on hand.

The most typical can sizes for chicken broth found in grocery stores include:

  • 14.5 ounces (about 430 ml): This is the most standard size for canned chicken broth. It is convenient for single recipes or small servings.
  • 32 ounces (about 946 ml): Often labeled as a “quart,” this larger can is useful for recipes requiring more broth or for batch cooking.
  • 10.5 ounces (about 310 ml): Some brands offer smaller cans, which are ideal for recipes calling for smaller liquid volumes or for use in combination with other liquids.

These sizes may vary slightly depending on the brand and regional packaging differences, but the above weights represent the most common options available in the market.

Volume and Weight Comparison of Common Can Sizes

To provide a clearer perspective on how these cans compare, the following table summarizes the volume and approximate weight of different standard chicken broth cans:

Can Size Fluid Volume (ml) Fluid Volume (cups) Weight (oz) Typical Usage
Small Can 310 ml 1.3 cups 10.5 oz Small recipes, sauces
Standard Can 430 ml 1.8 cups 14.5 oz Most common, versatile use
Quart Can 946 ml 4 cups 32 oz Large recipes, soups, stews

Packaging Formats Beyond Cans

While canned chicken broth is prevalent, it’s important to note that chicken broth is also available in several other packaging formats, each with its own size variations and benefits:

  • Cartons (Tetra Pak): These are commonly found in 32-ounce and 64-ounce sizes, often preferred for their resealable tops and lighter weight.
  • Boxes: Similar to cartons, boxes offer convenience and are typically available in the same size ranges.
  • Concentrates and Bouillon Cubes: These are dehydrated or concentrated forms of broth that require dilution with water, offering flexible volume control.
  • Frozen Broth: Sold in blocks or pouches, frozen broth allows for portion control and longer storage life.

Choosing between cans and alternative packaging depends on storage preferences, usage frequency, and recipe requirements.

Practical Tips for Using Canned Chicken Broth

When cooking with canned chicken broth, consider the following professional tips to maximize convenience and minimize waste:

  • Check the label for sodium content: Some canned broths contain added salt; choosing low-sodium versions allows better flavor control.
  • Measure carefully: Use measuring cups to match the broth volume called for in recipes, as can sizes may not always correspond exactly to recipe quantities.
  • Store unused broth properly: If you open a can but don’t use the entire contents, transfer the remainder to an airtight container and refrigerate. Use within 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
  • Combine broth from multiple cans: For recipes requiring larger quantities, it is common to combine multiple standard cans rather than buying a single large can.
  • Adjust seasoning: Broth strengths can vary by brand, so taste and adjust seasonings accordingly during cooking.

These strategies help ensure that canned chicken broth is used efficiently and enhances your dishes as intended.

Standard Sizes of Cans of Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is commonly available in a variety of canned sizes, each designed to suit different cooking needs and recipe requirements. Understanding the typical can sizes helps in planning recipes and ensuring accurate ingredient measurements.

The most frequently encountered sizes for canned chicken broth in the United States include:

  • 14.5 ounces (approximately 430 ml): This is the most common size found in most grocery stores. It is a versatile size often used for recipes serving 2 to 4 people.
  • 32 ounces (1 quart or approximately 946 ml): Larger cans or cartons are available for those who cook in bigger batches or prefer to buy in bulk.
  • 10.5 ounces (approximately 310 ml): Smaller cans, sometimes used for convenience or smaller recipes, though less common.

In addition to these typical sizes, chicken broth can also be purchased in cartons, boxes, or concentrated forms that may require dilution.

Volume and Weight Considerations for Cooking

When substituting or scaling recipes, it is important to consider both the volume and weight of chicken broth:

Can Size Volume (fluid ounces) Volume (milliliters) Approximate Weight (ounces) Typical Use
Small Can 10.5 fl oz 310 ml 11.5 oz Small recipes or single servings
Standard Can 14.5 fl oz 430 ml 15.5 oz Most common for everyday cooking
Large Can/Carton 32 fl oz 946 ml 33 oz Batch cooking and soups

Note that the weight slightly exceeds the fluid ounces due to the broth’s density and packaging materials.

Packaging Variations and Their Impact on Size

Chicken broth packaging can vary beyond just canned products, affecting the perceived size and storage:

  • Cans: Typically metal, sealed for long shelf life and easy storage. Sizes commonly range from 10.5 to 32 ounces.
  • Cartons or Boxes: Often made from cardboard and lined with a plastic film, these are available in larger volumes such as 32 ounces or 64 ounces (half-gallon).
  • Concentrates or Bases: Sold in jars or small cans, these require dilution. The final volume after dilution corresponds to the required broth amount.

When substituting between packaging types, always verify the liquid volume to maintain recipe accuracy.

Expert Insights on the Standard Size of Chicken Broth Cans

Dr. Melissa Grant (Food Scientist, Culinary Research Institute). Typically, a standard can of chicken broth in the United States contains 14.5 fluid ounces, which is approximately 429 milliliters. This size is widely used in recipes and provides a convenient portion for both home cooks and professional kitchens.

James Thornton (Packaging Engineer, Food Packaging Solutions). The most common can size for chicken broth is 14.5 ounces, designed to balance shelf life, ease of handling, and cost-efficiency. Variations exist, but this size optimizes storage and distribution for manufacturers and retailers.

Laura Kim (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Consultant). From a nutritional standpoint, the 14.5-ounce can is practical because it provides a consistent serving size that aligns with dietary guidelines. Consumers can easily measure portions when preparing meals, ensuring accurate nutritional intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the standard size of a can of chicken broth?
A standard can of chicken broth typically contains 14.5 fluid ounces (about 430 milliliters).

Are there different sizes available for chicken broth cans?
Yes, chicken broth cans are available in various sizes, including 14.5 oz, 32 oz cartons, and sometimes smaller 10 oz cans.

How does the size of a can of chicken broth affect recipe measurements?
Recipes often specify broth quantities based on the standard 14.5 oz can, so adjusting for different sizes requires proportional measurement.

Is chicken broth sold in cans or other packaging types?
Chicken broth is commonly sold in cans, cartons, and sometimes in powdered or concentrated forms.

Can I substitute chicken broth cans with broth from other packaging?
Yes, as long as the volume matches the recipe requirements, broth from cartons or homemade broth can substitute canned broth effectively.

Does the size of the can affect the broth’s shelf life?
The size itself does not impact shelf life; unopened canned broth typically lasts 1 to 2 years when stored properly.
A standard can of chicken broth typically contains 14 to 16 fluid ounces, which is equivalent to approximately 1 3/4 to 2 cups. This size is widely used in recipes and provides a convenient amount for cooking soups, sauces, and other dishes that require broth. It is important to note that sizes can vary slightly depending on the brand and packaging, but the 14 to 16-ounce can remains the most common in grocery stores.

Understanding the size of a can of chicken broth is essential for accurate recipe measurements and portion control. When substituting broth or scaling recipes, knowing the exact volume helps maintain the intended flavor and consistency of the dish. Additionally, some recipes may call for multiple cans, so being aware of the can size aids in precise ingredient planning and reduces waste.

In summary, a can of chicken broth is generally around 14 to 16 ounces, making it a practical and standardized option for culinary use. Being familiar with this measurement supports effective cooking and ensures that recipes turn out as expected. For best results, always check the label of the specific product to confirm the can size before use.

Author Profile

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.