Which Bone Broth Is Highest in Protein? A Comprehensive Guide

January 13, 2026 •

4 min read

According to a study comparing the amino acid content of different broths, turkey bone broth often exhibits a higher overall concentration of individual amino acids, suggesting a potentially rich protein profile. However, pinpointing which bone broth is highest in protein is complex and depends heavily on the specific ingredients, simmer time, and preparation method, making it crucial to understand the variables involved.

Quick Summary

This guide explains the factors that influence the protein concentration in bone broth, comparing the typical protein levels of beef, chicken, and other varieties. It also details the importance of preparation and ingredients for maximizing nutritional yield.

Key Points

High-quality ingredients are crucial: The nutrient density, including protein, depends on the quality of bones and a high bone-to-water ratio.
Homemade broth offers control: Making your own allows for a higher concentration of protein by controlling the ingredients and simmer time, especially when adding chicken feet or beef tendons.
Powders are often most concentrated: For a guaranteed high protein boost, concentrated bone broth powders generally offer the highest protein per serving.
Protein varies by broth type: While chicken broth with feet can yield more protein due to collagen content, beef broth is often richer in minerals.
Simmer time is essential: A long, low simmer is necessary to extract maximum protein and minerals from the bones.
Acid helps extraction: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice aids in breaking down bones and connective tissue to release nutrients.
Check labels for commercial broth: For store-bought options, always check the nutritional label for the protein content per serving to ensure it meets your needs.
Protein can fluctuate: The exact protein content of homemade broth is never fixed and will vary with every batch.

Beef vs. Chicken: Which Bone Broth Wins for Protein?

While beef bone broth is often associated with a rich, savory flavor and robust mineral content, chicken bone broth can sometimes contain more protein, especially when prepared with specific ingredients. The key to maximizing protein isn't just about the type of bone but also the presence of collagen-rich parts and a careful cooking process. For instance, adding chicken feet or beef tendons can significantly boost the collagen and gelatin content, translating to higher protein levels in the final product.

Factors That Determine Bone Broth Protein Content

The protein concentration in any bone broth can fluctuate based on several variables:

Bone-to-Water Ratio: A higher ratio of bones to water results in a more concentrated, protein-dense broth. Using enough bones to fill at least half to three-quarters of the pot is recommended for maximum nutrient extraction.
Simmer Time: A longer, low-and-slow simmer is crucial for breaking down bones and connective tissue to release protein and minerals. Beef broth may require a longer cook time (often 24-48 hours) than chicken (around 24 hours) due to the bones' density.
Collagen Maximizers: Ingredients like chicken feet, beef tendons, and oxtail are packed with collagen that converts to gelatin during cooking, enriching the broth with protein. Including these parts is a surefire way to increase protein content.
Acidic Additives: Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice helps draw minerals and protein, like collagen, out of the bones during simmering. A tablespoon or two is often all that's needed.
Source of Bones: The diet and quality of the animal from which the bones are sourced can impact the overall nutritional value. Grass-fed beef or pasture-raised chicken may offer a superior nutrient profile.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Protein

The protein content can differ significantly between homemade and commercial bone broths. While homemade allows for full control over ingredients and process, commercial brands often provide a more consistent nutritional profile. For example, some brands like Bluebird Provisions and Kettle & Fire list their protein content per serving, typically ranging from 9 to 12 grams for concentrated liquid or powder products.

Comparison of Bone Broth Types


Broth Type	Typical Protein Range (per cup)	Notes	Amino Acid Profile	Ideal For...
Beef Bone Broth	9–11+ grams	Richer, more intense flavor. Higher in minerals.	Higher in glycine and proline.	General wellness, gut health.
Chicken Bone Broth	10–12+ grams	Milder flavor, more versatile for cooking. Can have higher protein with additions like feet.	Higher in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) like leucine.	Muscle building, joint support (type II collagen).
Turkey Bone Broth	Often high, variable	Can be a nutrient-dense alternative to chicken, depending on preparation.	Often highest in individual amino acid concentrations.	Nutrient diversity, flavor variety.
Lamb Bone Broth	Varies, can be 3–6+ grams	Stronger, distinct flavor profile. Less common commercially.	Specific amino acid profiles vary; good source of minerals.	Unique flavor, specific recipes.
Bone Broth Protein Powder	12–20+ grams (per scoop)	Highly concentrated, convenient option. Variable sourcing.	Depends on source (beef/chicken); very high protein per serving.	High-protein diets, smoothies, quick intake.

Why Protein Concentration Matters

For those seeking to maximize protein intake from bone broth, concentration is key. While many liquid broths provide a solid 9-12 grams per cup, the most protein-dense products are often powdered concentrates. Brands like Bluebird Provisions offer powders that deliver 12 grams of protein per prepared cup, making it easy to add a significant protein boost to your diet. If you prefer a liquid format, focusing on brands that prioritize a high bone-to-water ratio and long simmer times will yield more protein. Homemade broth can be optimized by adding extra collagen-rich parts, such as chicken feet or beef tendons, and using less water during the simmer.

Conclusion: Finding the Highest Protein Bone Broth

The quest for the highest protein bone broth doesn't have a single answer, as the concentration depends on factors like ingredients, simmer time, and processing. While certain commercial powders and concentrated liquids offer the highest and most reliable protein counts, a well-made, homemade chicken or beef broth with added collagen sources can also be a fantastic choice. Ultimately, the best option is one that fits your taste preferences, dietary needs, and lifestyle, providing a simple and nutritious way to increase your daily protein intake.

Recommendations for Maximizing Protein

If buying commercial broth, check the protein content per serving on the label. High-quality liquid and powdered products are often the most concentrated.
When making homemade broth, increase the bone-to-water ratio and add collagen-rich ingredients like chicken feet or beef tendons.
Consider using a pressure cooker for homemade broth, as it can efficiently extract nutrients and reduce cooking time.
Don't be afraid to combine different types of bones (e.g., chicken and beef) to get a broader spectrum of amino acids and a unique flavor profile.
Remember that bone broth is a supplement to, not a replacement for, other protein sources in a balanced diet.

Sources for Further Reading

To learn more about the science behind bone broth, the amino acid profiles, and nutritional variations, explore the following resources:

Westmont College Study: For a detailed comparison of amino acid content across beef, chicken, and turkey bone broths, see this research paper.
Harvard Health: For an overview of bone broth's health benefits and nutritional value, visit the Harvard Health blog at.
Healthline: A general introduction to bone broth, its benefits, and influencing factors is available on Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no single definitive 'highest' protein bone broth, as content varies widely by preparation. However, concentrated powders and homemade versions with added collagen sources like chicken feet or beef tendons typically contain the highest protein levels per serving.

The protein content of beef versus chicken bone broth can vary. Some sources suggest chicken broth can contain more protein, especially when made with chicken feet. Other brands formulate their beef broth for higher protein yields. The concentration of the broth is the most important factor.

To increase the protein in homemade broth, use a high ratio of bones to water, and add collagen-rich parts such as chicken feet or beef tendons. A longer simmer time also helps extract more nutrients.

Bone broth protein powders are highly concentrated and can be an excellent way to get a reliable, high dose of protein, often providing 12-20 grams per scoop. They offer convenience and consistency that can be harder to achieve with homemade liquid broth.

The protein content of store-bought bone broth varies by brand and concentration, but a typical serving often contains between 9 and 12 grams of protein. It's best to check the nutritional label for specific values.

The protein in bone broth is primarily collagen, which is broken down into various amino acids during digestion. The body then uses these amino acids where they are most needed. While not a complete protein source like whey, it is rich in specific amino acids like glycine and proline.

Yes, cooking time significantly affects protein content. A longer, low simmer helps break down bones and connective tissue, releasing more protein and collagen into the broth. Simmering for 24 hours or more is common for maximizing yield.

A study by Westmont College found that turkey bone broth exhibited a higher concentration of several individual amino acids compared to beef or chicken broths. However, this can depend on the specific parts used and the preparation method.