Picking a low‑sodium chicken broth that actually tastes like chicken — not seasoned water — is harder than it looks. Most options either taste flat or sneak in yeast extract and hidden sodium. After sifting through ingredients, reading hundreds of buyers’ notes, and comparing what professional kitchens rely on, I’ve narrowed down the broths that deliver real savory depth without drowning your meal in salt.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind KitchPrep. I’ve spent years analyzing culinary ingredient specs, cross‑referencing nutritionist standards, and separating marketing fluff from what actually works in a home kitchen.
This guide examines top brands and ingredients to help you discover the best low sodium chicken broth that delivers rich chicken flavor without compromising your health goals.
How To Choose The Best Low Sodium Chicken Broth
Not all “low sodium” labels are created equal. Some brands simply dilute the salt content while adding flavor enhancers, while others rely on slow‑simmered bones and vegetables. Here’s what to keep an eye on when scanning shelf options.
Check the actual milligram count – not just the claim
A broth labeled “low sodium” can still pack 140 mg per cup. For true low‑sodium cooking, look for 100 mg or less per serving. Unsalted varieties often hover around 50 mg or even zero from natural sources.
Watch for hidden sodium and additives
Yeast extract, autolyzed yeast, and “natural flavors” often contain glutamate – a form of sodium that doesn’t appear on the salt line. The cleanest broths list only chicken, vegetables, and spices.
Form matters – carton vs. paste
Ready‑to‑use cartons are convenient, but pastes and bases let you control exact sodium per dish. A high‑quality low‑sodium paste can stretch further and taste fresher once diluted.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Type | Best For | Key Feature | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bonafide Provisions No Salt Added | Liquid | Cleanest ingredient list | No yeast extract, no salt added | Amazon |
| Kettle & Fire Chicken Cooking Ls | Liquid | Rich flavor, clean label | No hydrogenated fats, no synthetic nitrates | Amazon |
| Pacific Foods Organic Low Sodium | Liquid | Individual servings, families | 8 oz mini cartons, 50 mg sodium | Amazon |
| Dr. Kellyann Low Sodium Bone Broth | Liquid | Bone broth benefits | Concentrated, high protein | Amazon |
| Better Than Bouillon Reduced Sodium | Paste | Flexible, small portions | 25% less sodium than original, roasted flavor | Amazon |
| Imagine Organic Low Sodium | Liquid | Bulk organic, everyday use | 90 mg sodium, free‑range chicken | Amazon |
| Swanson Unsalted Chicken Broth | Liquid | Budget bulk, neutral base | Zero added salt, 12‑pack value | Amazon |
| Minor’s Low Sodium Chicken Base | Paste | Professional kitchens | Makes 5 gallons, no added MSG | Amazon |
| Gourmend Organic Unsalted Bone Broth | Liquid | Low FODMAP, digestive health | No onion/garlic bulbs, certified humane | Amazon |
| College Inn 40% Less Sodium | Liquid | Everyday value, solid taste | No MSG added, affordable | Amazon |
| College Inn Unsalted Chicken Stock | Liquid | Bulk unsalted stock | Non‑GMO, no preservatives, 12‑pack | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Bonafide Provisions No Salt Added Organic Chicken Broth
The Bonafide Provisions broth is as close as you can get to homemade without simmering bones yourself. It contains no added salt, no yeast extract, and no “natural chicken flavor” shortcuts — just organic free‑range chicken bones, organic vegetables, and water. With 3 g protein per serving and zero sodium from added salt, it’s a nutritionist‑approved base for soups, sauces, and braises.
Users consistently highlight how clean the flavor is. One reviewer said it’s “the only brand I purchase now — great taste, no sodium, excellent base for soups.” Another called it “the lowest sodium of any brand I’ve found.” The broth is thin compared to bone broths, but that’s expected from a stock‑style broth. A few wish it had more body, but the ingredient purity wins them over.
If you want the absolute cleanest low‑sodium chicken broth on the market — one that won’t hide salt in yeast extract or natural flavors — this is the pick. It’s not the cheapest, but the ingredient integrity is unmatched.
Why it’s great
- True zero‑salt ingredient list
- Organic, free‑range chicken bones
- No yeast extract, no fillers
Good to know
- Higher price point
- Mild body – not a bone broth
2. Kettle And Fire Broth Chkn Cookng Ls
Kettle & Fire is known for premium bone broths, and their low‑sodium cooking broth delivers the same high standards. It’s made with simple ingredients – chicken bones, vegetables, and spices – and contains no hydrogenated fats, high fructose corn syrup, or synthetic nitrates. The sodium level is noticeably lower than standard broths, though it still has a mild savory depth.
Fans of the brand love the “rich taste and clean ingredients.” One reviewer said it “adds depth to meals without overpowering them.” Another mentioned that despite trying cheaper alternatives, they always come back to Kettle & Fire for the taste. The only drawbacks are the price and the relatively small 32 oz carton size if you cook in bulk.
This is a top‑tier choice if you want a ready‑to‑use liquid broth that balances low sodium with genuine chicken flavor. It works beautifully as a sipping broth or as a base for rice.
Why it’s great
- Rich, satisfying chicken taste
- No hydrogenated fats or synthetic additives
- Gluten‑free and natural ingredients
Good to know
- Higher price per carton
- Not the lowest sodium – check label
3. Pacific Foods Organic Broth Chicken Low Sodium (4 Pack)
Pacific Foods offers one of the best low‑sodium broths for portion control. Each 8‑ounce carton contains just 50 mg of sodium – among the lowest available – making it perfect for single servings or small meals. The broth is organic, fat‑free, and keto‑friendly, with a clean flavor that doesn’t taste watered down.
Reviewers love the “perfect size for a small meal” and call it “the tastiest broth to cook with.” The low sodium level is frequently praised as “perfect for what I need.” However, because it comes in tiny cartons, it’s not the most economical for large pots of soup. The flavor is mild but pleasant – ideal as a neutral base.
If you often need just a cup of broth at a time or want a portable option, this 4‑pack of mini cartons is a convenient way to keep low‑sodium broth on hand without waste.
Why it’s great
- Only 50 mg sodium per serving
- Organic and keto‑friendly
- No waste – single‑use cartons
Good to know
- Small size isn’t cost‑effective for bulk cooking
- Mild flavor – may need seasoning
4. Dr. Kellyann Low Sodium Chicken Bone Broth
Dr. Kellyann’s bone broth is concentrated and gelatin‑rich, designed for those who want the health benefits of bone broth with less salt. The low‑sodium version keeps the savory chicken essence while reducing the sodium load. It’s Paleo‑friendly and free from hydrogenated fats.
Reviews are split: many praise its “excellent base for sauces” and note that it’s “thick and concentrated” – perfect for cooking rather than drinking straight. One reviewer warned that it’s “not salty enough to drink straight” and works best diluted. A few found it bland, but that’s common with genuine low‑sodium bone broths. The packaging also received some complaints about leaking.
This is a great choice if you’re cooking with bone broth and want a low‑sodium option that still adds body and collagen. Just plan to season your dish well.
Why it’s great
- Concentrated, high‑protein bone broth
- Low sodium – no added salt
- Great for sauces and gravies
Good to know
- Not meant for sipping straight
- Some packaging issues reported
5. Better Than Bouillon Reduced Sodium Roasted Chicken Base (2 Pack)
Better Than Bouillon is a kitchen staple for many, and their reduced‑sodium version delivers the same roasted flavor with 25% less salt. The paste format means you control exactly how much goes into each dish, making it easy to manage sodium intake. Each 8‑ounce jar makes 38 servings – excellent value.
Users consistently call it “the best reduced sodium chicken broth we have found.” It dissolves easily in hot water and works in soups, stews, rice, and marinades. One reviewer mentioned that even the reduced‑sodium version “can taste a little salty” if you use too much, but that’s the trade‑off for concentrated flavor. Refrigeration after opening is required.
If you prefer a paste over liquid broth for flexibility and shelf life (once opened, it lasts months in the fridge), this is your best bet. It’s economical and delivers consistent roasted chicken flavor.
Why it’s great
- Cost‑effective – 38 servings per jar
- Roasted, rich chicken flavor
- You control sodium by adding less paste
Good to know
- Not salt‑free – still contains some salt
- Requires refrigeration after opening
6. Imagine Organic Low Sodium Free Range Chicken Broth (6 Pack)
Imagine’s low‑sodium broth uses free‑range chicken, organic vegetables, and only a touch of sea salt – resulting in 90 mg of sodium per cup. It’s USDA Organic, gluten‑free, and free from artificial ingredients. The flavor is notably vegetal, with celery and carrots coming through alongside the chicken.
Customers praise it as “the best chicken broth I ever tried” and note its “very chickeny flavor.” One reviewer said it’s perfect for chicken noodle soup. However, the vegetable‑forward taste may not please those who want pure chicken flavor. Packaging can be fragile – a few reported carton leaks during shipping.
If you enjoy a well‑rounded broth with visible vegetable notes and want a bulk organic option, this 6‑pack offers great value. It’s a solid choice for soups and braises where you want complexity.
Why it’s great
- Organic and free‑range chicken
- 90 mg sodium per cup – truly low
- Great vegetable‑forward flavor
Good to know
- Not for pure chicken flavor seekers
- Cartons can leak in transit
7. Swanson 100% Natural Unsalted Chicken Broth (12 Pack)
Swanson’s unsalted broth is a household name for good reason: it’s widely available, affordable, and has no added salt. Each 32 oz carton contains zero added salt, though there is a tiny amount of naturally occurring sodium (around 30‑40 mg per cup). It’s fat‑free, gluten‑free, and uses non‑GMO ingredients.
Fans call it “the best no salt chicken broth” and “the lowest‑sodium among low‑sodium options.” Many use it as a daily hot drink or slow‑cooker base. The flavor is mild and slightly sweet – one reviewer described it as “sweet tasting for soup.” It won’t wow gourmet cooks, but it’s a reliable, neutral backdrop.
For pure value and availability, this 12‑pack is hard to beat. If you go through broth quickly and want a zero‑stress, no‑salt liquid, Swanson delivers with consistency.
Why it’s great
- Budget‑friendly per carton
- Zero added salt – lowest sodium
- Readily available, consistent quality
Good to know
- Mild flavor – needs seasoning
- Not organic
8. Minor’s Low Sodium Chicken Base
Minor’s is the gold standard in commercial kitchens – a concentrated paste that makes 5 gallons of stock per pound. The low‑sodium version keeps the deep, roasted chicken flavor that chefs love, with significantly less salt than regular bouillon. It contains no added MSG and has 0 g trans fat.
Experienced home cooks swear by it: “without a doubt, one of the best products in my kitchen.” It’s praised for consistency, with one reviewer saying they’ve used it for years and it never fails. The paste is dark brown (caramel color in the original, but low‑sodium is darker) and dissolves easily. It lasts up to 18 months in the freezer.
This is for the serious cook who wants total control over sodium and flavor. The upfront cost is higher, but the yield is enormous – easily the most economical option per serving.
Why it’s great
- Makes 5 gallons of stock
- Unmatched professional‑grade flavor
- Very low sodium per serving
Good to know
- High initial cost
- Not shelf‑stable – refrigerate/freeze
9. Gourmend Organic Unsalted Chicken Bone Broth (3 Pack)
Gourmend specializes in gut‑friendly broths. This unsalted bone broth is Low FODMAP certified, meaning it uses leek and scallion greens instead of onion and garlic bulbs – making it gentle on sensitive stomachs. It contains no fillers, yeast extract, or added salt. The chicken is humanely raised, free‑range.
Users with IBS love it: “Amazing low FODMAP product – highly recommend.” Another said it’s “mild enough to add your own spices” and doesn’t upset the stomach. The only complaints are about the price – it’s one of the most expensive options per carton – and some find the flavor too subtle.
If you have digestive issues or follow a low‑FODMAP diet, this broth is a lifesaver. It’s also perfect for anyone who wants an ultra‑clean bone broth with no potential gut irritants.
Why it’s great
- Low FODMAP certified
- No onion, garlic, or additives
- Humanely raised chicken
Good to know
- Expensive per carton
- Mild flavor – needs custom seasoning
10. College Inn 40% Less Sodium Chicken Broth
College Inn’s 40% less sodium broth is a solid middle‑ground option. It cuts salt without sacrificing the familiar savory taste. It contains no added MSG (though a small amount occurs naturally in yeast extract), is gluten‑free, and comes in a shelf‑stable 32 oz carton with a resealable cap.
Reviewers appreciate the “really good flavor without the over saltiness” and call it a “flavorful, reduced salt chicken broth at a competitive price.” Some mentioned that the paper‑like plastic cartons can leak in transit, but Amazon typically replaces them. The taste is comparable to standard chicken broth, just with less punch.
This is a straightforward, no‑fuss option for those who want a familiar brand with reliable flavor and a noticeable sodium reduction. Ideal for daily cooking without worrying about extreme cleanliness.
Why it’s great
- Great price for the size
- Familiar rich flavor
- Resealable carton
Good to know
- Not as low in sodium as unsalted versions
- Yeast extract present – not completely clean
11. College Inn Unsalted Chicken Stock (12 Pack)
College Inn’s unsalted stock takes a different approach – no salt added at all. It uses chicken, vegetables, and no added preservatives, sugars, or MSG. This 12‑pack brings the unit cost down significantly, making it one of the most economical ways to stock a pantry with unsalted broth.
Users on low‑sodium diets (including those with kidney issues) praise it: “much more flavorful than local store brands.” One reviewer said it’s “the best I’ve found” for unsalted broth. The flavor is rich enough to satisfy. Delivery can be slow – one order took over a month – but the product itself is consistent.
If you go through a lot of broth and want a clean, unsalted liquid that won’t break the bank, this case pack is an excellent investment. Pair it with your own seasonings for complete control.
Why it’s great
- Great value per quart in bulk
- No added salt, sugar, or preservatives
- Unexpectedly rich flavor for unsalted
Good to know
- Shipping can be slow
- Cartons may dent in bulk shipping
Understanding the Specs
Sodium levels – what “low” really means
FDA guidelines call “low sodium” 140 mg or less per serving. But many “low sodium” broths sit right at that threshold. For true low‑sodium cooking, aim for 50‑100 mg per cup. Unsalted versions often have less than 50 mg from natural sources. Always check the Nutrition Facts – not the front label.
Yeast extract – the hidden sodium trick
Yeast extract naturally contains glutamate, which is a form of sodium. It’s not listed in the sodium count on the label, but it can trigger the same salt‑sensitivity issues. Broths that say “no MSG” may still use yeast extract. The cleanest products avoid both and rely on real roasted bones and vegetables for flavor.
Paste vs. liquid: which is better for low sodium?
Pastes and bases give you total control because you add the amount. A single teaspoon of a low‑sodium paste can make one cup of broth with under 100 mg sodium. Liquids are more convenient but often have a fixed sodium level per cup. For flexibility, pastes win; for grab‑and‑go, cartons are faster.
Organic vs. conventional – does it matter for broth?
Organic certification ensures no synthetic pesticides or GMOs in the chicken feed and vegetables. However, “organic” doesn’t guarantee low sodium – you still need to check the label. Many organic broths have similar sodium levels to conventional ones. Prioritize organic only if you also care about soil and animal welfare.
FAQ
What is considered a truly low sodium chicken broth?
Can I use low sodium chicken broth in any recipe that calls for regular broth?
How do I store opened low sodium chicken broth?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best low sodium chicken broth winner is the Bonafide Provisions No Salt Added Organic Chicken Broth because it delivers pure, clean chicken flavor with zero added salt and no yeast extract. If you want the flexibility of a paste, grab the Better Than Bouillon Reduced Sodium Roasted Chicken Base. And for bulk unsalted convenience, nothing beats the Swanson Unsalted Chicken Broth 12‑pack.
