Rotisserie chicken is the ultimate budget-friendly, convenient option for a flavorful meal without the hassle of dealing with prep. But despite being sold at almost any grocery store, not all rotisserie chickens are created equal—and a recent report reveals the standout from the bunch.
In a recent study by Consumer Reports, the nonprofit group dove into the world of rotisserie chicken, ranking 10 popular offerings by major retailers. But the report goes beyond just the taste and texture. Experts conducting the study also focused on less notable yet important factors that make up a great rotisserie chicken, including sodium content and the safety of the plastic packaging.
The study was conducted by purchasing 10 to 13 chickens from each selected retailer, bought from various locations, with each kept warm and insulated during transport. Consumer Reports sensory experts blind-tested the chickens for a ranking, with the rest of the chickens going out to laboratories for testing. The rotisserie chickens were tested to compare product labeling versus actual average weight and sodium, as well as for plastic and food packaging chemicals present in the meat.
Here is the report’s ranking of retailers.
1. Sam’s Club Member’s Mark Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken
At $4.98/3 lb. ($1.66 per lb.), this rotisserie chicken stands out for its paprika rub which, according to experts, gives the chicken a bronzed color and deep roasted flavor.
2. Costco Kirkland Signature Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken
Priced at $4.99/3 lb. ($1.66 per lb.), the Costco chicken varies in saltiness but is considered among the plumper ones of those tested.
3. Stop & Shop Whole Rotisserie Chicken
Significantly more expensive than others, priced at $7.99/1.75 lb. ($4.57 per lb.). Still, it was flavorful enough to move it farther up the list.
4. Walmart Traditional Fully-Cooked Rotisserie Chicken
This chicken, priced at $5.97/2.25 lb. ($2.65 per lb.), stands out for its hints of lemon and rosemary.
5. Wegmans Whole Roasted Chicken, Plain
Using sea salt as its only seasoning, this option costs $9.99/2.13 lb. ($4.69 per lb.), and is considered a “good choice for purists,” according to the experts.
6. Whole Foods Market Classic Rotisserie Chicken
At $8.99/1.75 lb. ($5.14 per lb.), this option is among the pricier choices. While the meat was drier than others, this option forgoes a brine and offers flavor with just salt and black pepper as a seasoning.
Consumer Reports also shared expert tips for choosing the best rotisserie chicken out of the bunch, regardless of retailer.
Experts suggest peeking inside the plastic packaging to examine the chicken’s color, with a golden skin being the optimal choice, a sign of even cooking. Customers should also try getting the freshest out of the batch, by asking store staff for guidance. Lastly, customers can get a better bang for their buck by physically lifting the packaging and comparing weights to find the heaviest.