🍷 Alcohol & Vinegars

Can You Substitute Chicken Broth for White Wine? Guide

Learn how to substitute chicken broth for white wine in cooking. Get proper ratios, techniques, and tips for perfect results every time.

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Quick Answer

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for white wine in a 1:1 ratio, but you'll need to add acid (like lemon juice) to mimic the acidity that white wine provides.

Best Substitutes

Chicken Broth + Lemon Juice

1:1 + 1-2 tbsp lemon juice per cup

Chicken broth provides depth and richness while lemon juice adds the acidity that white wine normally provides.

Best for:

saucesmarinadesdeglazingrisottopasta dishessoups

Add lemon juice gradually to taste

Chicken Broth + White Wine Vinegar

3:1 (broth to vinegar)

Chicken broth provides depth while white wine vinegar adds the acidity that white wine normally provides.

Best for:

when you want wine-like aciditydeglazingsaucesmarinadeswhen you want depth

Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity

Chicken Broth + Apple Cider Vinegar

3:1 (broth to vinegar)

Chicken broth provides depth while apple cider vinegar adds fruity acidity that complements many dishes.

Best for:

when you want fruity acidityfall-inspired dishespork disheswhen you want depthsweet and sour balance

Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity

Chicken Broth + Rice Wine Vinegar

3:1 (broth to vinegar)

Chicken broth provides depth while rice wine vinegar adds mild acidity that works well in delicate dishes.

Best for:

asian-inspired disheswhen you want mild aciditydelicate sauceswhen you want depthlight dishes

Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity

Chicken Broth + Lime Juice

1:1 + 1-2 tbsp lime juice per cup

Chicken broth provides depth while lime juice adds bright acidity that works well in many dishes.

Best for:

mexican-inspired disheswhen you want bright acidityseafood disheswhen you want depthtropical dishes

Add lime juice gradually to taste

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Always add acid to chicken broth to mimic white wine's acidity
  • 💡Start with less acid and add more gradually to taste
  • 💡For deglazing, use hot broth to release browned bits
  • 💡In marinades, the acid helps tenderize meat
  • 💡For sauces, reduce the broth to concentrate flavor
  • 💡Consider the dish's flavor profile when choosing your acid

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need to add acid to chicken broth?

White wine provides acidity that balances flavors and tenderizes meat. Chicken broth alone lacks this acidity, so you need to add it.

How much acid should I add to chicken broth?

Start with 1 tablespoon of acid per cup of broth and adjust to taste. Different dishes may need more or less acidity.

Can I use just chicken broth without acid?

Broth alone will provide depth but lack the brightness that acidity brings. Adding acid is recommended for best results.

What's the difference between chicken broth and white wine?

Chicken broth provides depth and richness, while white wine provides acidity and alcohol content. You need both for the best results.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth will work similarly, but it won't have the same depth of flavor as chicken broth.

Summary

Learn how to substitute chicken broth for white wine in cooking. Get proper ratios, techniques, and tips for perfect results every time.