If you ever find yourself looking for a quick, flavorful and protein-packed meal, look no further than rotisserie chicken. A serving size of 3 oz rotisserie chicken contains approximately 160 calories, making it a healthy and convenient option for any meal of the day.

Not only is rotisserie chicken a quick fix for a meal, it's also a great source of nutrients. It contains high-protein that can help you feel full and satisfied. It's also a good source of minerals like zinc and iron. In addition to that, most grocery stores usually sell rotisserie chicken ready to eat, making it a great time saver for people who are always on the go.

In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of consuming rotisserie chicken, how it is prepared, and ways to cook with it for a variety of easy and healthy meals.

Rotisserie chicken serving size and calorie count

A serving size of rotisserie chicken generally weighs around 3 oz or 84 g, and contains approximately 160 calories, 23g of protein, 0g of carbohydrate, and 7g of fat. However, these nutritional values may vary based on the premarinade or seasoning of the chicken. It's important to keep track of serving sizes when consuming rotisserie chicken, as overconsumption of a high-fat and high-calorie item can have adverse effects on one's health.

What is rotisserie chicken?

Rotisserie chicken is a whole chicken that has been slowly and evenly cooked on a rotisserie over a heat source, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat. It's a popular option for a quick and easy meal, as it's often sold fully cooked at grocery stores and can be eaten cold or reheated. Rotisserie chicken is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to casseroles and soups.

Benefits of rotisserie chicken

Rotisserie chicken is not only a delicious and convenient meal option, but it also has several benefits to offer. Here are some of them:

• High protein: As mentioned before, rotisserie chicken is a great source of lean protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied after a meal.
• Easy to digest: The cooking process of rotisserie chicken allows the fat to drip away from the meat, making it a healthier and easier-to-digest protein option.
• Time-Saver: It's a great option for busy people who don't have time to cook from scratch, as it's readily available at grocery stores.
• Cost-effective: Buying a whole rotisserie chicken can be cost-effective when compared to purchasing chicken parts separately.

How is rotisserie chicken prepared?

Rotisserie chicken is usually slow-cooked on a rotisserie, which is a turning spit that moves the chicken slowly over a heat source. This results in evenly cooked, tender meat with crispy skin. Many grocery stores also pre-marinate or season the chicken prior to cooking. To prepare a rotisserie chicken at home, you would need a rotisserie oven, which can be found at most kitchen appliance stores. Once the chicken is cooked, it should be allowed to rest for a few minutes before carving to ensure that the juices are distributed evenly.

Rotisserie chicken vs other chicken options

When it comes to choosing chicken, it can be hard to decide which option is best. Here are some key differences between rotisserie chicken and other chicken options:

• Rotisserie chicken: Cooked whole with the skin on, rotisserie chicken is often seasoned or marinated prior to cooking, and is a great option for a quick and easy protein source.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This option is a lean source of protein and can be cooked in a variety of ways. It's a great option for those looking for a low-fat protein source and can be used in various dishes easily.
• Chicken thighs: This option has a higher fat content than chicken breasts but can be juicier and more flavorful than white meat. Chicken thighs are also great for dishes where they can be cooked with bones and skin included.

Is rotisserie chicken a healthy choice?

Compared to many other fast and convenient meal options, rotisserie chicken can be a healthier choice. It's a great source of lean protein, low in carbohydrates, and easy to digest. However, the added seasonings, sauce or other sides can increase the total calorie and sodium intake. Therefore, it's important to keep track of serving sizes and be cautious of the sides and sauces that are paired with the chicken. When purchasing rotisserie chicken, it's important to check the label or ask the vendor about the preparation method and ingredients. If possible, opt for plain, unseasoned rotisserie chicken and season it as per taste at home.

How to store leftovers of rotisserie chicken

If you have some leftover rotisserie chicken, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for around 3-4 days. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to six months. However, it's important to thaw frozen chicken properly before reheating it. When reheating rotisserie chicken, it's best to do so in an oven or on the stovetop to ensure that it warms evenly.

Ways to cook with rotisserie chicken

Rotisserie chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Shred the meat and use it as a salad topping or in a wrap or sandwich.
• Use it as a pizza topping with roasted vegetables, cheese, and other desired toppings.
• Use it in a hearty soup or curry.
• Make a chicken salad with mayo, celery, grapes or apples, and some herbs.
• Make a quesadilla with rotisserie chicken, cheese, and a few veggies.

Different flavorful seasoning options for rotisserie chicken

Rotisserie chicken is great on its own, but the right seasoning can make it even more flavorful. Here are some seasoning options to try:

• Garlic and herb: Use garlic powder, oregano, basil, and rosemary for a classic and flavorful seasoning option.
• Lemon pepper: Combine lemon zest and black pepper for a citrusy and aromatic seasoning.
• Spicy: Use chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder for a spicy and smoky seasoning.
• Teriyaki: Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for a sweet and savory teriyaki flavor.
• BBQ: Use smoked paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper for a classic BBQ flavor.

Creative recipes that use rotisserie chicken

Rotisserie chicken is such a versatile ingredient that it can be used in various recipes. Here are some unique and creative recipes that use rotisserie chicken:

• Chicken Enchilada Casserole: Layer rotisserie chicken, enchilada sauce, cheese, and tortilla chips for a delicious and easy dish that's perfect for a crowd.
• Greek Salad with Chicken: Combine chopped rotisserie chicken with cucumber, tomatoes, bell peppers, and feta cheese for a fresh and tasty Greek salad.
• Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Combine chopped rotisserie chicken with cooked pasta and a creamy Alfredo sauce for a comforting and filling meal.
• Buffalo Chicken Dip: Shred the meat from the rotisserie chicken and combine with cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheese for a cheesy and delicious dip that's perfect for parties.
• Chicken Noodle Soup: Use the carcass of the chicken to make a flavorful broth and add in shredded rotisserie chicken and vegetables for a comforting meal that's perfect for a cold day.