Finding a substitute for chicken base? We’ve got you covered. It’s happened to us all – we’re cooking, and suddenly realize that chicken base is missing from the pantry.
Let’s face it, nothing beats the rich, savory flavor it brings. But there are some hefty alternatives out there. We’re talking about stuff that packs just as much flavor without being a hassle.
Let’s dive into these tasty replacements that save the day and keep our meals delicious. Easy and fun options ahead!
5 Easy Substitutes for Chicken Base
As much as we love chicken base, it’s not always available when we need it. But don’t worry, there are plenty of substitutes that will bring the same depth and richness to your dishes. Here are some easy options you can try:
1 – Chicken Bouillon Cubes
First up, chicken bouillon cubes. These little flavor bombs are salty and savory. They melt perfectly in soups and stews. Broth lovers rejoice!
They’ve got a strong chicken taste with a hint of herbs and veggies. Way portable and easy to store. Fancy a deeper dive? Find more about bouillon cubes substitutes here.
We use these in everything. They aren’t just good for soups, either. Sauces, grain dishes – you name it, we use it. Bouillon cubes are the pantry MVP.
2 – Chicken Broth or Stock
Chicken broth is the next best thing to chicken base. It gives soups and stews that deep, rich flavor we crave.
You can use it in sauces for an extra burst of flavor.
Stock is like broth’s fancier cousin – it’s richer and has a bit more body.
We love using stock in risottos and gravies.
Think of broth as the go-to for simpler dishes, while stock is perfect for something you want to make a little special.
For more options, check out this chicken broth substitute.
3 – Vegetable Broth
The flavor of vegetable broth is a bit lighter than chicken base. It’s got a subtle, earthy taste that works in many dishes.
We love using it in vegetarian recipes. It adds a depth without overpowering the ingredients. The herb and veggie notes in it give a nice balance.
Great for those avoiding meat products. A super versatile option. Check our vegetable broth substitutes for more ideas.
It’s perfect in soups, stews, and even some sauces. We find it works wonders in risottos too!
4 – Beef Broth
One of the richer substitutes for chicken base is beef broth. It’s robust and hearty, bringing deep flavors to the table.
Beef broth has a strong, meaty taste, perfect for adding depth to stews and soups. It’s rich and savory, with a unique profile.
We love using beef broth in dishes needing a punch of flavor. It’s our go-to for bold recipes. It has an earthy taste that complements many ingredients.
5 – Dashi
Last on our list is dashi. It’s a staple in Japanese cooking with a seafood-like flavor. It’s rich, umami-packed and offers a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
We find it works wonders in broths and soups. It brings a full-bodied taste that’s fragrant. A great alternative when you want something different from the usual chicken base.
We love mixing things up with dashi, it’s not just for Japanese dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, chicken bouillon cubes are a quick and convenient alternative. Just dissolve them in hot water to create a similar flavor base.
Chicken broth is more liquid-based, while chicken base is a concentrated paste, so use less chicken base when substituting for broth.
Yes, vegetable broth is a great vegetarian alternative to chicken base, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Beef broth can be a suitable alternative, especially if you want a richer flavor, though it’s stronger than chicken base.
Yes, dashi is a popular substitute in Asian dishes and provides a unique umami flavor that complements many recipes.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.