What To Do With Chicken Stock Leftovers: 6 Ideas To Try
Every time I make a big batch of homemade chicken stock, I’m left with a golden, flavorful liquid that feels too valuable to pour down the drain. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at leftover chicken stock in the fridge or freezer, wondering what to do with it, you’re not alone. Trust me, that liquid gold deserves a second act.
Have you ever thought about how many meals could be elevated with just a splash of chicken stock? Whether you’re whipping up a hearty stew, simmering grains, or even sautéing vegetables, there are countless ways to use up every last drop. Curious how to make it stretch across multiple dishes without it feeling repetitive?
In this post, we’ll walk through some easy and tasty ideas for using chicken stock leftovers. By the end, you’ll have a list of go-to ideas that not only reduce waste but also amp up the flavor in your everyday meals.
7 Delicious Ways To Use Up Leftover Chicken Stock
1. Egg Drop Soup
Egg drop soup is a delicious and easy way to use leftover chicken stock. Bring the stock to a boil and slowly add beaten eggs while stirring.
The eggs will cook in the hot stock, creating long strands that add body and protein to the soup. Add chopped vegetables, such as onions, celery, or carrots.
Egg drop soup is a satisfying and versatile dish that can be enjoyed anytime.
2. Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup
This soup is hearty and filling, and the chicken stock adds a delicious richness to the dish.
To make Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup, sauté some onions and garlic in olive oil, then add the chicken stock and pasta. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, then add some chopped chicken and a dollop of heavy cream.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and you’re done. Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is a quick and easy way to use leftover chicken stock, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
So next time you find yourself with some leftover chicken stock, don’t throw it out – put it to good use and make Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup.
3. Tonkotsu Ramen
Tonkotsu ramen is a delicious and hearty dish that can be made using chicken stock leftovers. First, the chicken stock is simmered with pork bones to create a rich and flavorful broth.
Then, noodles are added to the soup along with vegetables and protein of your choice. Tonkotsu ramen is typically served with a soft-boiled egg, nori (seaweed sheets), and scallions.
This dish can be easily customized to your liking and makes for a great weeknight meal. So next time you have chicken stock leftovers, give Tonkotsu ramen a try.
4. Creamy Thai Sweet Potato Curry
So, you’ve made a big batch of chicken stock, and now you wonder what to do with the leftovers. Well, there are plenty of options.
One delicious way to use up chicken stock is to make Creamy Thai Sweet Potato Curry.
This tasty dish is full of flavor and great for a weeknight meal. Plus, it’s pretty easy to make! Saute some onions, ginger, and garlic in a pan. Then add sweet potatoes, chicken stock, and a can of coconut milk.
Season with curry paste, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Let the curry simmer until the sweet potatoes are cooked through. Serve over steamed rice, and enjoy.
5. Miso Soup
Miso soup is a Japanese staple traditionally made with dashi, a fish stock. However, chicken stock can be used as a delicious and nutritious substitute.
To make miso soup with chicken stock, add a tablespoon of miso paste to each cup of stock. Miso paste is available in most Asian markets or online.
Once the paste is dissolved, add your favorite vegetables and proteins.
Tofu, mushrooms, and green onion are all excellent choices. Miso soup is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed anytime. Best of all, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken stock.
6. Mushroom Gravy
Mushroom Gravy [1] is a fantastic way to use up chicken stock leftovers. This dish is simple and can be served with various proteins and vegetables.
To make Mushroom Gravy, sauté mushrooms and onions in butter until soft. Then, whisk in flour and chicken stock, and simmer until thickened.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mushroom Gravy is the perfect way to elevate a weeknight meal and is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So, give Mushroom Gravy a try next time you have chicken stock leftovers.
7. Flavorful Sauces and Gravies
Leftover chicken stock is a secret weapon when it comes to creating flavorful sauces and gravies. Its savory depth adds richness and complexity that water or broth just can’t match. Whether you’re making a quick pan sauce or planning a more involved dish, chicken stock lays a tasty foundation.
Here are a few simple sauces to try:
- Classic Gravy: Whisk stock with pan drippings, butter, and flour.
- Demi-Glace: Reduce stock with wine and herbs until thick and glossy.
- Velouté Sauce: Combine stock with a roux for a creamy French-style finish.
| Sauce Type | Main Ingredients | Best For |
| Gravy | Chicken stock, flour, fat | Roasts, mashed potatoes |
| Demi-Glace | Stock, wine, aromatics | Steaks, gourmet meals |
| Velouté | Stock, butter, flour | Chicken, vegetables |
To thicken sauces, try simmering until reduced, or add a bit of cornstarch slurry or roux.
FAQs on What To Do With Chicken Stock Leftovers
How long will chicken stock last in the fridge?
Chicken stock will last 3-4 days in the fridge. Chicken stock is a great way to flavor dishes without adding calories or salt. It’s also a good source of protein and vitamins.
Can you use chicken stock after ten days?
Yes. You can use chicken stock after ten days, but it won’t be as good as if you’d used it right away. However, the frozen chicken stock will lose some flavor and thickness.
Can chicken stock be frozen?
Yes, chicken stock can be frozen. However, it is important to note that freezing will alter the flavor and texture of the stock.
When thawed, the stock may have a slightly different flavor and be more watery than fresh stock.
Can you eat the meat from chicken stock?
Yes, you can eat the meat from chicken stock, but it’s not very palatable. The meat will be soft and have a mild flavor.
Key Takeaways
Chicken stock is incredibly easy and economical to make at home, and it freezes well, so you can always have some on hand.
The uses for chicken stock are endless, so don’t throw away your leftovers.
Try one of these ideas the next time you find yourself with leftover chicken stock. Your family will thank you for it.
Reference:
- https://www.recipetineats.com/mushroom-gravy/
