Roast chicken is a classic dish—simple, comforting, and timeless. It has long been the go-to Sunday night dinner, beloved by cooking icons like Julia Child and Ina Garten.
But despite its appeal, roasting a chicken at home can be time-consuming. Many of us don’t have the patience to wait an hour or more while the bird cooks.
That’s where rotisserie chickens come in—a store-bought staple that saves time without sacrificing flavor. According to the National Chicken Council, Rotisserie chickens are such a popular convenience food that Americans purchase about 950 million of them every year.
But with so many stores offering their versions of rotisserie chicken, which one is the best? We asked a panel of expert chefs to find out, and they unanimously agreed on one brand. Spoiler alert: It’s the same bird that won our own team’s taste test.
Meet the Chefs Who Spilled the Beans
We spoke to chefs from across the country who are passionate about poultry and frequently use rotisserie chicken in their kitchens. Here’s who shared their insights:
- Anthony Castro: Executive chef at Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, Palmetto, Florida
- Sonny Pache: Executive chef at The Guild House, Columbus, Ohio
- Michelle Rounsaville: Chef-owner of My Michelle’s, Oxford, Mississippi
- Jacob Schroeder: Chef-owner of Crafted Food Services and Moxie Kitchen + Events, Des Moines, Iowa
- Peter Som: Culinary creator, lifestyle expert, and author of the upcoming cookbook Family Style
What Makes a Great Rotisserie Chicken?
Not all rotisserie chickens are created equal, and our chefs pointed out several essential qualities they look for when choosing the best one:
1. Even Cooking: Overcooking can be problematic with rotisserie chickens if the heat isn’t properly distributed. According to chef Jacob Schroeder, some rotisseries have hot spots that leave parts of the chicken burnt or dried out. The best chickens, he says, are evenly golden from breast to wing, with caramelized skin that isn’t too dark or wrinkly.
2. Juicy and Tender Meat: The inside is as important as the outside. Michelle Rounsaville and Anthony Castro emphasized that even if you don’t plan to eat the skin, the chicken should be moist and flavorful. This is especially important when using the meat for recipes like enchiladas or chicken salad, where texture matters.
3. Freshness: Jacob Schroeder recommends constantly checking the “cooked at” time stamp on the chicken to see how long it was made. “The longer they sit in a hot box, the drier they get,” he explains. Ideally, look for a bird cooked within the last two hours.
4. Consistency: For Anthony Castro, consistency is critical. “If a chicken is tough, dry, or lacks flavor once, I take note and avoid that brand in the future,” he says. The best rotisserie chicken should consistently deliver juicy meat, crispy skin, and balanced flavors.
The Best Rotisserie Chicken: The Chefs’ Pick
So, which rotisserie chicken stands out above the rest? Every chef we spoke to gave the same answer: Costco’s Kirkland Signature Rotisserie Chicken.
The $5 Costco bird that’s gained a cult following is also a favorite among professional chefs. Here’s why they love it:
- Excellent Value: For just $5, you get a 3-pound bird that chefs say is unbeatable. “It never disappoints no matter how I use it,” says chef Sonny Pache.
- Consistent Quality: “Costco can’t be beaten,” says Peter Som. “It’s a cult favorite for a reason.” The chefs agree that Costco’s rotisserie chickens are reliably fresh, juicy, and flavorful, with perfectly crisp skin.
- Stays Juicy for Days: Michelle Rounsaville says Costco chickens “stay juicy for days” if you don’t eat them immediately. That makes them perfect for meal prep or use in multiple weekly recipes.
Chef Jacob Schroeder also praised his local Costco for having well-trained staff and noted that their chickens are always cooked and dry.
How to Make the Most of Your Rotisserie Chicken
Once you’ve snagged your Costco rotisserie chicken, the possibilities are endless. Our panel of chefs shared some of their favorite ways to use rotisserie chicken in their kitchens:
1. Shredded Chicken for Greek Salad: Toss shredded chicken with fresh greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and a tangy Greek vinaigrette.
2. Creamy Chicken Salad: Mix the meat with mayonnaise, mustard, chopped celery, and herbs for a satisfying chicken salad.
3. Game Day Wings: Use the wings for a quick appetizer, tossing them in your favorite sauce.
4. Chicken Tortilla Soup: Shred the chicken into a flavorful tortilla soup for a comforting dinner.
5. Chicken-Topped Pizza: Add chunks of rotisserie chicken to your favorite pizza for an easy protein boost.
6. Chicken Tacos: Shred the meat and serve it in soft tortillas with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for taco night.
7. Main Dish with Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken as is alongside roasted vegetables for a simple yet satisfying meal.
8. Homemade Chicken Broth: Don’t toss the bones! Use them to make a rich, homemade chicken broth for soups, risotto, or cooking grains.
9. Buffalo Chicken Dip: Shred the chicken and mix it with cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and cheddar for a crowd-pleasing dip.
Why Costco Rotisserie Chicken Is a Fan Favorite
What makes Costco’s rotisserie chicken stand out isn’t just its unbeatable price, Quality, and convenience. It’s ready to eat, requires no cleanup, and offers incredible versatility for busy weeknights.
Whether you want to whip up a quick dinner, meal prep for the week, or get creative with your leftovers, Costco’s rotisserie chicken is a reliable go-to.
Conclusion:
When it comes to finding the best rotisserie chicken, the consensus is clear: Costco’s Kirkland Signature rotisserie chicken reigns supreme. It’s affordable, consistently delicious, and a favorite among professional chefs and home cooks.
So next time you’re wondering where to get a juicy, flavorful bird for dinner, head to your nearest Costco and pick up their famous $5 rotisserie chicken—you won’t be disappointed.