Everyone who shops at Costco can attest to being a victim of the rotisserie chicken trap. You know how the story plays out. You are about to fill your shopping cart to overflowing with all your favorite products in bulk. Tired, trying to decide what in the world to do for dinner. Around this time, you pass golden rotisserie chickens slowly turning in the water. They shout at you. Looks like you found the perfect solution to your dinner problem. Additionally, these plump and juicy chickens are available for the price of $4.99. So, you may be wondering, is Costco rotisserie chicken healthy?
We all know that Costco rotisserie chickens are economical, convenient, and undeniably delicious. It's things like these that often convince people that a Costco membership is worth the price. However, with all the pressure on healthy eating these days, many consumers are left wondering if they are the healthiest option. Perhaps one of the reasons Costco rotisserie chickens are so delicious is because they are juicy and filling.
This is probably because there is a faster price level at Costco than many other stores that offer rotisserie chicken. Costco only leaves its chickens in the oven for two hours, then they are taken to the back and used in other recipes. The fact that they are not left open for hours means that they will lose weight, so that is in their favor.
What's in Costco Rotisserie Chicken?
The ingredients for the rotisserie chicken are:
- whole chicken
- water
- salt
- sodium phosphate
- modified food starch
- sugar
- carrageenan
- soy lecithin
- flavors
- xanthan gum
Source: Mashed.com.
They are also said to contain no preservatives, MSG's, gluten, artificial flavors, or artificial colors. In terms of nutrition information, Costco rotisserie chickens also have 460mg of salt in 3 oz. serving, so those who need to watch their sodium intake may want to be careful. They are also high in cholesterol, but low in sugar. Chickens are ground, which makes them juicy and tender, but also accounts for the high amount of sodium per serving. Despite the fact that chickens rather sodium-heavy, they are an excellent source of protein, and as long as you don't eat the skin; they are a low-fat meat choice.
To show how popular the Costco rotisserie chicken is, one only needs a brief internet search. There are seemingly endless sites discussing the pros and cons of Costco chicken. Did you know that Costco rotisserie chicken has its own Facebook page with about 19,000 likes? The Facebook page is full of comments from Costco chicken buyers. It also includes lots of recipes for things to do with chicken.
A few years ago, despite disappointing financial results, Costco refused to raise the $4.99 price tag on its chicken. Costco chicken shoppers are thankful, as prices on many items continue to rise.
Is Costco Rotisserie Chicken Healthy?
Yes.
The takeaway is this: while cholesterol and sodium levels should be of concern enough to keep you from eating chicken every day, every once in a while, Costco chicken can be an acceptable meal. It's an excellent source of protein, and there are very few meals you can feed your family for the price of $4.99.
For more great products to buy at Costco check out these articles.
Costco Cakes Review
Costco Wine Guide
How Much is a Gallon of Milk at Costco?
The Best Reads From Around The Web
Consumer Reports has a great article on the Costco rotisserie chicken phenomenon.
Readers Digest has a must-read article about Costco chicken, along with some great photos.
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