Is chicken broth ok to drink when sick? A nutritional guide for recovery

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

For centuries, chicken soup, and its core ingredient, chicken broth, have been a go-to remedy for illness. This practice is more than a tradition; studies show that the warm liquid can provide essential hydration and nutrients, directly addressing the question, 'Is chicken broth ok to drink when sick?'.

Quick Summary

Chicken broth is not only safe but also beneficial for drinking when sick, offering hydration, crucial electrolytes, and vitamins. Its warmth can relieve congestion, while its easy-to-digest nature provides nourishment without upsetting the stomach, aiding a smoother recovery from colds, flu, and other illnesses.

Key Points

Excellent Hydration: Chicken broth is a rich source of fluids and electrolytes, crucial for preventing dehydration, especially with fever, sweating, or vomiting.
Soothes Symptoms: The warm steam from chicken broth acts as a natural decongestant, and the warm liquid soothes a sore throat, providing immediate relief.
Supports the Immune System: Contains amino acids like cysteine and carnosine, as well as essential vitamins and minerals that aid in reducing inflammation and boosting immune function.
Easy on the Stomach: Its simple and light nature makes it easy to digest, which is beneficial when your appetite is low or you have gastrointestinal distress.
Nutrient-Dense: Provides a range of vitamins, minerals, and proteins that help sustain your energy and support your body's recovery efforts.
Control Sodium Intake: Making your own chicken broth at home allows you to control the sodium content, which can be high in commercial products.

The Benefits of Chicken Broth When Sick

When your body is fighting an infection, it's crucial to stay hydrated and provide it with easy-to-digest nutrients. Chicken broth is an ideal beverage for this purpose, offering several key benefits that aid in a faster, more comfortable recovery.

Hydration and Electrolyte Replenishment

Fever, sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea can all lead to dehydration, which can worsen symptoms and prolong illness. Chicken broth is an excellent source of fluids and contains crucial electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which are vital for maintaining proper bodily functions. Drinking warm broth can help replenish these lost fluids and minerals, aiding your body in fighting off the infection.

Symptom Relief: Soothing Sore Throats and Congestion

One of the most immediate benefits of sipping warm chicken broth is the relief it provides for common symptoms like a sore throat and nasal congestion. The hot steam can act as a natural decongestant, helping to clear nasal passages and loosen mucus, making it easier to breathe. The warm liquid is also soothing for an irritated or scratchy throat, providing instant comfort.

Nutritional Support for Your Immune System

When you are sick, your appetite often decreases, but your body still needs nutrients to power your immune response. Chicken broth offers a simple, easy-to-consume source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It contains amino acids like cysteine, which can help thin mucus, and carnosine, which studies suggest may help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. These components support your body's natural healing process.

Gentle on the Digestive System

For those with an upset stomach, nausea, or other digestive issues, heavy or rich foods can be difficult to tolerate. Chicken broth is typically light and easily digestible, allowing you to get some nutrition without putting extra strain on your digestive system. This makes it a perfect option when solid foods are unappealing.

Choosing the Right Broth: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

When it comes to picking chicken broth, you have a few options. Homemade broth is generally preferred for its quality and lower sodium content, but store-bought versions offer convenience.


Feature	Homemade Chicken Broth	Store-Bought Chicken Broth
Nutrient Density	Higher, especially in amino acids and trace minerals.	Can be lower depending on processing and brand.
Sodium Control	You have complete control over the sodium content.	Often very high in sodium; low-sodium options are available but must be checked.
Ingredients	Made with fresh vegetables, bones, and herbs; no additives or preservatives.	May contain preservatives, additives, and MSG.
Convenience	Requires preparation time and effort.	Quick and readily available, simply heat and serve.
Flavor	Rich, deep, and complex, tailored to your taste.	Can be less flavorful or have an artificial taste, depending on the brand.

Chicken Broth vs. Bone Broth: Which is Better for Recovery?

While often used interchangeably, chicken broth and chicken bone broth are different. Chicken bone broth is typically simmered for a much longer period (often 12-24 hours) using mostly bones, leading to higher levels of collagen and minerals.

For general recovery and fighting colds, standard chicken broth is highly effective and easier to digest for some people. The anti-inflammatory and congestion-relieving effects from the amino acids are present in both, but some studies point to chicken-specific components being particularly beneficial for upper respiratory tract infections. However, if your primary goal is to support gut healing or joint health, the higher collagen content in bone broth may offer additional benefits.

How to Maximize the Benefits of Your Chicken Broth

To create a powerful, immune-boosting potion from your broth, consider adding these ingredients:

Garlic: Known for its antiviral and antimicrobial properties.
Ginger: Excellent for soothing nausea and providing anti-inflammatory effects.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary can add flavor and additional antioxidants.
Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound.
Cayenne Pepper: Can help to thin mucus and promote congestion relief.

What to Avoid When You Are Sick

While chicken broth is a great choice, some other foods and drinks can be detrimental to your recovery. It is wise to limit or avoid:

Sugary drinks: These can increase inflammation and suppress the immune system.
Caffeine: This can act as a diuretic and increase dehydration.
Spicy or fried foods: These can irritate your stomach and digestive system.
Alcohol: It can cause dehydration and interfere with your body's ability to heal.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Chicken Broth

Drinking chicken broth when sick is not just an old wives' tale; it's a nutritionally sound choice backed by centuries of practice and some scientific evidence. It provides essential hydration, replenishes lost electrolytes, and offers immune-supporting nutrients in a gentle, easily digestible form. Whether you opt for a quality store-bought version or a hearty homemade brew, a warm mug of chicken broth can provide comfort and aid your body's natural recovery process, especially when battling a cold or flu.

For more detailed nutritional information and healthy recipe ideas, consider exploring resources from reputable health and nutrition websites.

Mayo Clinic Health System: Best foods to eat for a stomach bug

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, chicken broth is excellent for a stomach flu. It provides hydration and electrolytes to replace those lost from vomiting or diarrhea, and it is gentle on a sensitive digestive system.

Yes, the warmth and steam from hot chicken broth can help loosen mucus and clear nasal congestion, providing effective relief for a stuffy nose.

Store-bought broth is convenient and can still provide hydration and some nutrients. However, homemade broth is often lower in sodium and higher in nutrient density, making it a potentially healthier option if you have the time to prepare it.

Yes, drinking chicken broth daily when you're sick is fine. It is a healthy way to maintain hydration and nutrient intake. For best results, opt for low-sodium versions or homemade broth to avoid excessive salt consumption.

Chicken broth is typically simmered for less time and contains meat. Chicken bone broth is simmered longer, with bones, resulting in more collagen. Both are beneficial, but chicken broth is sometimes easier on the stomach, while bone broth may offer more profound gut-healing benefits.

Chicken broth contains electrolytes like sodium and potassium, amino acids such as cysteine and carnosine, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. These support hydration, reduce inflammation, and aid the immune system.

No, chicken broth cannot cure a cold, as there is no cure for the common cold. However, it can significantly alleviate symptoms and provide the hydration and nutrients your body needs to help you feel better and recover faster.