You’ll never look at Costco chicken the same way again—7 brilliant tricks you need to try!

Ah, the humble rotisserie chicken from Costco. It's the unsung hero of quick dinners, the centerpiece of impromptu gatherings, and a beacon of hope for those of us who'd rather not spend hours in the kitchen.

For just $5, you can bring home a juicy, perfectly cooked chicken that's ready to be transformed into a multitude of meals.

But what if you're not feeding a crowd? We've got some clever tricks up our sleeve to help you stretch that bird over several days, ensuring not a morsel goes to waste.



1. Debone with ease
The secret to making the most of your Costco chicken starts right after you bring it home. While it's still warm, take the time to debone it. The meat will separate more easily, and you can then portion it into meal-sized containers.

Freeze what you won't use immediately, and simply thaw in the fridge when you're ready for your next chicken creation. From chicken salad to enchiladas, your future self will thank you for this prep!

2. Seal the deal
Investing in a vacuum sealer might just be a game-changer for your kitchen routine. Not only does it keep your chicken fresher for longer, but it's also a fantastic way to store other foods.

Imagine enjoying the taste of freshly cooked chicken days after you've bought it. With a vacuum sealer, it's not just possible—it's a reality. One user on social media said that “They come out smelling and tasting freshly smoked,” after vacuum sealing their chicken.


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Costco's rotisserie chickens are great value and can be used in a variety of recipes to extend their use over several days. Image source: Mashed / Youtube.



3. Pot pie perfection
There's something undeniably comforting about a homemade chicken pot pie. Using your Costco chicken, you can whip up this classic dish with ease.

Add some frozen veggies to the mix, and you've got a hearty meal that can last for days. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in those veggies for a well-rounded meal.

4. Broth from bones
Don't discard those bones! They're the key to a rich, homemade bone broth that can serve as the base for soups, stews, and more. Simmer the carcass with some basic veggies and seasonings, and you'll have a flavorful broth that's both nutritious and delicious. It's a zero-waste approach that pays off in taste.



5. Chill out
To keep your chicken as fresh as possible, store it in the coldest part of your fridge. Use airtight containers to prevent that dreaded “fridge smell” and oxidation.

"Put it away immediately. Avoid any time sitting uncovered on the counter," said one Costco member.

Remember, the back of the fridge is your friend, as it experiences fewer temperature fluctuations, which can affect the quality of your food.

6. Dry it out
If you find your chicken getting a bit soggy, try this trick: after shredding, spread the meat on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven at 225°F for about an hour.

This will help remove excess moisture and can even add a bit of roasted flavor. It's a simple step that can make a big difference in texture and taste.

“Combine the white & dark meat. Either by cooking or by using your hands until you have similarly sized shreds/chunks of chicken. The next step is to remove the moisture.” said one social media user.


Source: More Nick / Youtube.​


7. Reheat right
When it's time to reheat, do it the smart way. For those with little ones or just a preference for moist chicken, try wrapping bite-sized pieces in a damp paper towel before microwaving. This helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken tasting just as good as when it was first carved.

“As soon as you get home, the clam shell goes straight into the garbage and chicken goes whole into a freezer bag. And if you're feeding a picky toddler the best way to reheat and serve–Cut off breast, cut into bite size pieces, wrap the handful of bites into a wet paper towel, microwave in wet paper towel, and plop it onto plate and dispose of towel. This keeps it moist and tasty.” said one Costco member.



In our golden years, we're all about smart living—maximizing resources, minimizing waste, and enjoying life's pleasures without overcomplicating things.

These Costco chicken hacks align perfectly with that philosophy. They're about making the most of what we have, saving time and money without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.


Source: Mashed / Youtube.

Also read: Is Your Costco Chicken Yellow? What You Need to Know Before Your Next Meal!

Key Takeaways
  • Costco's rotisserie chickens are great value and can be used in a variety of recipes to extend their use over several days.
  • Tips for keeping the chicken fresh include deboning it while warm, using a vacuum sealer, and storing it in the coldest part of the fridge.
  • Creative uses for the chicken include making chicken pot pie, bone broth, and using it in other meals like tacos, quesadillas, and soups.
  • To preserve the chicken's moisture and freshness, one can remove excess moisture after shredding, use a wet paper towel for reheating, and always store the chicken properly.

Have you tried any of these rotisserie chicken tips? Do you have a favorite recipe that starts with a Costco chicken? Or perhaps you've got a tip of your own to share? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
 
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