If you’re looking for a simple way to boost your lean protein intake without spending hours in the kitchen, rotisserie chickens from the grocery store are an unbeatable solution. These convenient, pre-cooked birds are a favorite for many reasons, and they offer a variety of benefits that make them a staple in many households.
The Magic of Rotisserie Chickens
First and foremost, rotisserie chickens are already cooked, which means you can bring them home and dive right in without any additional prep work. Trish Clasen Marsanico, deputy editor in the Women’s Health Test Kitchen, shares that she often snacks on drumsticks from her rotisserie chicken on the way home from the store. Sometimes, you just need that quick protein hit!
Unlike many other prepared meat options, rotisserie chickens are roasted rather than fried. This means they are generally a healthier choice, with lower fat content compared to fried alternatives. They are widely available at most grocery stores and big box stores, including Whole Foods, Costco, Sam’s Club, and more.
From a nutritional standpoint, a whole rotisserie chicken typically provides about 4 cups of meat and around 165 grams of protein. This makes them an excellent option for anyone looking to increase their protein intake with minimal effort.
How To Choose the Best Rotisserie Chicken
When selecting a rotisserie chicken, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure you get the freshest and most delicious bird possible.
Inspect the Chicken
Check the appearance of the chicken carefully. If it has been sitting under a heat lamp all day, the skin can dry out and shrivel. The freshest chickens will be plump with evenly browned skin.
Temperature Matters
Always choose the hottest chicken available. Bacteria grow most rapidly between 40°F and 140°F, so you want to ensure your chicken is well above this range. Make the rotisserie chicken the last item you pick up on your grocery run to minimize the time it spends in your cart.
Weight Check
Rotisserie chickens generally weigh around 2.5 lbs for consistent cooking. If a chicken feels significantly lighter, it likely means that more of its juices have evaporated, resulting in a drier bird.
Skip the Flavors
Specially seasoned rotisserie chickens often have higher sodium content. For a healthier option, choose a plain chicken and add your own seasonings and herbs at home.
Timing Is Key
The earlier in the day you buy your chicken, the fresher it will be. Tina Martinez, food producer in the Women’s Health Test Kitchen, suggests asking the counter staff at your grocery store when their first chickens come off the rotisserie. This way, you can aim to purchase your chicken as fresh as possible.
Making the Most of Your Rotisserie Chicken at Home
Once you have your rotisserie chicken, there are countless ways to incorporate it into your meals. Here are some quick and easy ideas to get you started.
Shred It Immediately
As soon as you get home, shred the rotisserie chicken or remove the meat from the bones while it’s still warm. Waiting until later can result in mushy meat, so it’s best to do this right away.
Add to Soup
Transform a simple can or box of vegetable soup into a hearty meal by adding shredded rotisserie chicken. For example, combine shredded chicken with butternut squash puree for a comforting, protein-packed dinner.
Create a Filling
Mix shredded rotisserie chicken with your favorite dressing or condiment to create an instant sandwich or lettuce wrap filling. Green goddess dressing or mashed guacamole are excellent options to mix with the chicken for a quick and tasty meal.
Make Broth
Don’t let the carcass go to waste! After shredding the meat, add the bones to a slow cooker with onion, carrots, celery, parsley stems, thyme, or rosemary. Cover with water and cook on low for 10 hours to make a delicious homemade broth.
Versatile and Delicious
Rotisserie chickens are incredibly versatile and can be used in countless recipes. Kate Merker, chief food director at Women’s Health, highlights that these chickens serve as a perfect vehicle for any of your favorite flavorings. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack, a hearty soup, or a fresh salad, rotisserie chicken can fit the bill.
In summary, rotisserie chickens are a fantastic option for anyone looking to simplify meal prep while still enjoying nutritious and delicious meals. With a little know-how on selecting and preparing these birds, you can make the most of this convenient grocery store staple.
Read more: The Best 10 Street Foods of Philadelphia