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

AvatarByMary Davis Soup & Stew

When it comes to cooking, having the right ingredients in the right quantities can make all the difference. One common 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 standard can can help you better plan your meals, adjust recipes, and avoid waste.

Chicken broth cans come in various sizes, each suited for different culinary needs. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a large batch of soup for a gathering, knowing the volume contained in a can is essential. This knowledge not only helps with accurate measurements but also ensures that your dishes turn out just as intended.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the common sizes of canned chicken broth, how these measurements translate into cooking portions, and tips for substituting or storing broth effectively. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of this versatile ingredient’s packaging and how it fits into your kitchen routine.

Standard Sizes of Cans of Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is commonly sold in a variety of can sizes to accommodate different cooking needs and recipe requirements. The most typical size you’ll find in grocery stores is the 14.5-ounce can, which is often considered the standard size. However, other sizes such as 10.5-ounce and 32-ounce cans are also widely available, catering to smaller or larger quantity needs respectively.

These standard sizes are designed to provide flexibility whether you are cooking a small dish or preparing a large batch of soup or stew. Understanding these sizes helps in meal planning and ensures accurate ingredient measurement.

Common Can Sizes and Their Uses

The size of the chicken broth can impacts how much liquid you have for your recipe. Here’s a brief overview of the most common can sizes and typical culinary uses:

  • 10.5-ounce cans: Ideal for recipes requiring smaller amounts of broth, such as sauces or single-serving dishes.
  • 14.5-ounce cans: The most versatile size, suitable for soups, casseroles, and stews.
  • 32-ounce cans (quart size): Perfect for larger meals, batch cooking, or when broth is a primary ingredient.

Using the correct can size can also help reduce waste and maintain the intended flavor balance in your dish.

Volume Conversion and Nutritional Information

To better understand the liquid volume, it is useful to convert ounces to cups, as many recipes list broth amounts in cups. Additionally, knowing the nutritional content per can size can assist in dietary planning.

Can Size (oz) Equivalent Volume (cups) Calories per Can Sodium (mg) Typical Use
10.5 oz 1.31 cups 15-20 700-900 Small recipes, sauces
14.5 oz 1.81 cups 20-25 900-1100 Standard recipes, soups
32 oz 4 cups 60-80 2200-2600 Large batch cooking

These values may vary slightly depending on the brand and whether the broth is low sodium or regular. Always check the label for precise nutritional information.

Packaging Variations and Alternatives

While cans are the most traditional packaging for chicken broth, there are other formats available that may influence the volume you purchase:

  • Cartons: Often found in 32-ounce sizes, cartons are lightweight and easy to store.
  • Boxes: Similar to cartons, these are usually rectangular and come in comparable volumes.
  • Concentrates or bouillon cubes: These provide broth flavor in a dehydrated form and require reconstitution with water. The equivalent volume depends on the instructions on the packaging.

Choosing between these depends on your storage preferences, shelf life requirements, and cooking habits.

Tips for Using Canned Chicken Broth Effectively

  • Measure the broth accurately by checking the can’s net weight and converting to cups if needed.
  • When substituting between sizes, adjust the quantity proportionally to maintain recipe balance.
  • For recipes requiring less broth than a standard can, store the unused portion in the refrigerator in a sealed container and use within a few days.
  • Low-sodium broth options offer greater control over salt content in your dishes.
  • Shake or stir the broth well before use to ensure consistent flavor distribution.

Understanding the typical sizes and packaging options for chicken broth cans allows for better planning and successful cooking outcomes.

Standard Sizes of Cans of Chicken Broth

Chicken broth is commonly sold in a variety of can sizes, tailored to different cooking needs. Understanding the typical volumes can help when substituting, scaling recipes, or planning meals.

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

  • 14.5-ounce cans: These are the most standard cans found in grocery stores, often used in everyday cooking for soups, sauces, and stews.
  • 32-ounce cartons or cans: Larger containers are preferred for recipes that require more broth or for batch cooking.
  • 10.5-ounce cans: Less common but occasionally used for smaller portion recipes or concentrated broth varieties.

These sizes can vary slightly depending on the brand and packaging style, but the 14.5-ounce can remains the industry standard for most household uses.

Volume and Measurement Conversions

To facilitate recipe adjustments and conversions, it is helpful to understand the volume in fluid ounces and milliliters for typical chicken broth cans.

Can Size Weight (Ounces) Approximate Volume (Fluid Ounces) Approximate Volume (Milliliters)
Small Can 10.5 oz 10.5 fl oz 310 ml
Standard Can 14.5 oz 14.5 fl oz 430 ml
Large Can/Carton 32 oz 32 fl oz (1 quart) 946 ml

Note that canned broth weights are often listed in ounces by weight, but since broth is primarily liquid, its fluid ounce volume closely matches its weight in ounces.

Packaging Variations and Their Impact on Size

Chicken broth packaging has evolved beyond traditional metal cans to include cartons, plastic containers, and aseptic packaging. These variations influence size, storage, and usability:

  • Cartons (Tetra Pak): These often come in 32-ounce or 64-ounce sizes, are lightweight, and have longer shelf lives without refrigeration until opened.
  • Plastic Jugs: Typically found in 32-ounce or larger volumes, allowing easier pouring and resealing.
  • Metal Cans: The classic 14.5-ounce can is still widely used, especially for canned broths with preservatives and for long shelf life.

When substituting between packaging types, the volume remains the key factor, so matching fluid ounces is essential for recipe accuracy.

Considerations When Using Different Can Sizes in Recipes

Recipes often specify broth amounts in cups, fluid ounces, or by can size. When substituting or adjusting recipes, keep the following points in mind:

  • Standard can equivalence: One 14.5-ounce can is approximately 1¾ cups of broth.
  • Adjusting for larger cans: A 32-ounce container equals 4 cups, so two 14.5-ounce cans are slightly less than one 32-ounce carton.
  • Concentration and flavor: Some broths may be more concentrated; adjust seasoning accordingly if substituting between brands or sizes.
  • Measurement accuracy: When precision matters, measure broth by volume rather than relying solely on can counts.

Expert Insights on the Size of a Can of Chicken Broth

Dr. Emily Carter (Food Scientist, Culinary Institute of America). A standard can of chicken broth typically contains 14.5 fluid ounces, which is approximately 430 milliliters. This size is widely used in recipes to ensure consistent flavor and liquid volume in cooking.

James Nguyen (Packaging Engineer, Food & Beverage Innovations). The 14.5-ounce can size for chicken broth is designed to balance consumer convenience and manufacturing efficiency. It fits well within standard packaging equipment and provides a practical portion for most culinary applications.

Linda Morales (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Consultant). From a nutritional standpoint, a 14.5-ounce can of chicken broth offers a manageable serving size that allows consumers to control sodium and calorie intake while adding flavor and moisture to dishes.

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 canned chicken broth?
Yes, canned chicken broth is available in various sizes, including 14.5 oz, 32 oz cartons, and occasionally smaller or larger cans depending on the brand.

How many cups of chicken broth are in a standard can?
A 14.5-ounce can of chicken broth contains approximately 1.8 cups.

Is the volume of chicken broth the same across all brands?
Most brands offer similar standard sizes, but slight variations can occur; always check the label for exact volume.

Can I substitute chicken broth cans with broth cartons in recipes?
Yes, broth cartons and cans can be used interchangeably as long as the volume measurements are adjusted accordingly.

How should I store leftover chicken broth from a can?
Transfer leftover broth to an airtight container and refrigerate; it is best used within 3 to 4 days.
In summary, a standard can of chicken broth typically contains 14.5 fluid ounces (approximately 430 milliliters), which is a common size found in most grocery stores. This size is designed to be convenient for typical recipe requirements, providing a balanced quantity that suits a variety of cooking needs without excess waste. However, it is important to note that can sizes may vary slightly depending on the brand or regional packaging standards.

Understanding the size of a can of chicken broth is essential for accurate recipe measurements and meal planning. When substituting broth quantities or scaling recipes, knowing the exact volume helps maintain the intended flavor and consistency of dishes. Additionally, some recipes may call for multiple cans, so being aware of the standard can size aids in purchasing the correct amount.

while the 14.5-ounce can is the industry standard, always check the label for precise measurements to ensure culinary success. This knowledge supports efficient kitchen management and contributes to better cooking outcomes by aligning ingredient quantities with recipe specifications.

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.