Chicken soup or broth

Chicken soup or broth is a savory liquid dish made by simmering chicken, often with bones, along with aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, and herbs such as parsley or thyme. It is a foundational comfort food found in countless cuisines worldwide, from the classic Jewish penicillin to Chinese herbal broths and Latin American caldo de pollo.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Chicken broth is typically low in carbohydrates and fat, with a moderate amount of protein, especially if made with bones and connective tissue. It provides essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, and a standard cup (about 240ml) contains roughly 15-40 calories, depending on preparation.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	38 kcal
Protein	5.4 g
Carbs	1.3 g
Fat	1.4 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0.4 g
Sodium	480 mg
Potassium	140 mg
Phosphorus	60 mg
Magnesium	10 mg
Selenium	4 µg
Niacin (B3)	2.5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.1 mg
Vitamin B12	0.1 µg
Copper	0.1 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, chicken soup is almost universally regarded as a healing food, often served to the sick or during cold weather, earning it nicknames like 'Jewish penicillin.' Nutritionally, the gelatin from simmered bones may support gut health, and the warm broth can help with hydration and soothing sore throats.