What is chicken essence and how is it made?

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

For centuries, chicken essence has been a popular traditional remedy in many Asian cultures, valued for its restorative properties. Unlike standard chicken broth, this highly concentrated liquid is created through a meticulous, time-consuming process that extracts vital nutrients from chicken meat and bones. As a result, it is rich in proteins, peptides, and amino acids, making it a sought-after health supplement.

Quick Summary

Chicken essence is a nutrient-dense liquid supplement derived from the long, high-temperature extraction of whole chickens, concentrating beneficial peptides and amino acids. It is often consumed for energy and recovery.

Key Points

Concentrated Nutrient Extract: Chicken essence is a highly concentrated liquid extracted from chicken, unlike typical broth.
Made Without Water: Authentic production involves high-pressure, high-heat extraction of a whole chicken without adding water.
Rich in Peptides and Amino Acids: The final liquid is a dense source of proteins, peptides like carnosine and anserine, and amino acids.
Supports Recovery and Energy: Traditionally used to relieve mental and physical fatigue, aid recovery from illness, and support postpartum women.
Research Shows Potential Benefits: Studies, including those on mice, have shown improved physical endurance, energy, and reduced fatigue biomarkers.
Quality Varies: Different brands and methods impact the final product, with high-quality versions being low in fat, cholesterol, and free of preservatives.
Popular in Asia: This traditional tonic is a popular nutritional supplement across many Asian cultures.
Not a Medical Cure: While beneficial for wellness, it is not a substitute for a balanced diet or professional medical treatment.

What is chicken essence? A traditional tonic explained

Chicken essence is a concentrated liquid extract created by cooking whole chickens under high temperature and pressure for several hours. The process extracts the vital nutrients, proteins, peptides, and amino acids, which are then concentrated and bottled. Unlike typical chicken soup or broth, authentic chicken essence contains no added water, fat, or preservatives. The result is a savory, amber-colored liquid prized as a health supplement and restorative tonic in traditional Chinese medicine and other Asian cultures.

The meticulous process of making chicken essence

The production of authentic chicken essence is a complex and precise process that sets it apart from simple broths. Here is a step-by-step breakdown:

Sourcing the ingredients: High-quality, often free-range, chickens are chosen for their nutritional value.
High-temperature extraction: Whole chickens, and sometimes just the bones and meat, are placed in a special pot, often a pottery pot, and subjected to high heat for an extended period, sometimes as long as 8 hours. Crucially, no water is added during this stage; the liquid is extracted entirely from the chicken itself.
Fat and cholesterol removal: After the extraction, the liquid is put through a centrifugation process to remove fat and cholesterol, resulting in a healthier product.
Concentration: The liquid is further vacuum-concentrated to boost its nutrient density.
Sterilization and packaging: The final product is sterilized and bottled for convenient consumption, ensuring a long shelf life without needing preservatives.

Comparing chicken essence to chicken broth and stock

While both chicken essence and standard chicken broth come from chicken, their nutritional density and production methods vary significantly.


Feature	Chicken Essence	Chicken Broth / Stock
Production Method	High-pressure, high-temperature extraction without added water.	Boiling chicken parts and vegetables in water for a shorter time.
Concentration	Highly concentrated, with a rich nutrient profile.	Less concentrated, with nutrients diluted by added water.
Fat Content	Very low, as fat is removed during processing.	Often contains a higher fat content from the cooking process.
Nutritional Profile	Rich in peptides, free amino acids, and minerals.	Contains some protein and minerals, but in lower concentrations.
Additives	Typically contains no preservatives or artificial flavors.	May contain salt, seasoning, and other additives for flavor.
Intended Use	A nutritional supplement for health and recovery.	A culinary base for soups, sauces, and other dishes.

Health claims and scientific backing

Chicken essence is often marketed with various health claims, some of which are supported by preliminary scientific research, while others are based on traditional use.

Cognitive function and mental fatigue

Some studies, particularly those conducted in Asia, have investigated the effects of chicken essence on cognitive performance. Research has explored its potential role in reducing mental fatigue and improving concentration and memory. However, the results are sometimes inconsistent or inconclusive, and some studies have noted a high risk of bias due to industry funding. Some of these effects are attributed to bioactive peptides like carnosine and anserine, which can influence neurotransmitter pathways.

Physical endurance and anti-fatigue

In mouse studies, chicken essence supplementation has been shown to increase physical endurance and grip strength. It has also been linked to decreased levels of fatigue-related biomarkers like lactate and ammonia after exercise. Researchers suggest that the high content of amino acids and peptides may contribute to muscle repair and energy metabolism, helping to delay the onset of physical exhaustion.

Postpartum recovery and general wellness

For generations, chicken essence has been recommended for women recovering from childbirth to restore energy and replenish nutrients lost during pregnancy. Its easily digestible protein and nutrient profile are also considered beneficial for anyone recovering from illness or experiencing general weakness. The peptides and nutrients are easily absorbed, making them an efficient way to nourish the body when appetite is low.

The importance of quality in chicken essence

When considering chicken essence, not all products are created equal. The quality of the chicken, the extraction process, and the presence of additives can all affect the final nutritional value. High-quality products emphasize a low-fat, low-cholesterol, and preservative-free formulation, ensuring maximum purity and benefit.

Conclusion: A traditional tonic for modern life

Chicken essence represents a traditional nutritional supplement that has evolved to fit modern, fast-paced lifestyles. What is chicken essence? It is a nutrient-dense liquid extract made from chicken, offering a concentrated source of protein, peptides, and amino acids. While traditional wisdom has long lauded its restorative benefits, contemporary scientific research provides some support, particularly concerning fatigue and physical performance. While more high-quality, independent human trials are needed, the product remains a popular choice for those seeking a natural boost to their energy, recovery, and overall wellness.

How to make homemade chicken essence

For those who prefer a traditional, DIY approach, creating chicken essence at home is a time-honored practice. A detailed guide to the traditional “double-boiling” method can be found at: Double-Boiled Chicken Essence Guide.

Disclaimer

While often used as a health supplement, chicken essence is not a replacement for a balanced diet or medical advice. Individuals with specific health conditions, such as kidney disease, should consult a healthcare provider before consuming concentrated supplements due to the high protein content.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main difference is the concentration and production method. Chicken essence is a highly concentrated extract made by high-pressure cooking a whole chicken without added water. Chicken soup is made by boiling chicken parts in a large amount of water, resulting in a less dense liquid.

High-quality, commercially produced chicken essence typically has the fat and cholesterol removed through a centrifugation process. This results in a low-fat, low-cholesterol product.

Chicken essence is a purer, more concentrated product. Broth and stock are usually made by boiling chicken in water with other ingredients like vegetables and seasonings, making them less potent and with more additives.

Chicken essence is traditionally recommended for those recovering from illness, women postpartum, students needing to boost concentration, and individuals experiencing general fatigue. However, those with specific health concerns should consult a doctor.

Chicken essence is often recommended as a nutritional supplement for pregnant and breastfeeding women, and for growing children. However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen during pregnancy or for a child.

Some studies suggest that regular consumption may help improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration, particularly in times of mental fatigue. These effects are often attributed to the high concentration of amino acids and peptides.

Yes, you can make it at home using a traditional double-boiling method, but it is a time-intensive process. The homemade version will likely vary in concentration from commercial products.

Chicken essence is typically consumed directly from the bottle or sachet, often warmed. It can also be added to soups, congee, and other dishes to enhance their nutritional value.

For most healthy individuals, there are no significant side effects. Some concern exists regarding high sodium content in some brands, which is a consideration for those with high blood pressure. Individuals with kidney issues should be mindful of the high protein load.

Depending on the brand and specific needs, it can be consumed daily. It is not a stimulant and can be taken at various times throughout the day to boost energy.