How Many Calories Are in 4 oz of Costco Rotisserie Chicken Breast?

November 7, 2025 •

3 min read

Plain cooked chicken breast contains around 169 calories per 4 oz serving, but Costco's rotisserie chicken has a different nutritional profile due to its preparation. The exact number of calories in 4 oz of Costco rotisserie chicken breast depends on the presence of skin and the cut of the meat.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for 4 oz of Costco rotisserie chicken breast varies, ranging from 147 to 188 calories. Factors such as skin inclusion influence the calorie count. This article explores nutritional differences and highlights the considerable sodium content and other significant details.

Key Points

Variable Calories: A 4 oz serving of Costco rotisserie chicken breast ranges from approximately 147 to 188 calories, varying based on the skin and preparation.
Skin Matters: The skin adds fat and calories; skinless breast meat is the leanest choice.
High Sodium Warning: Be aware of the high sodium content (460mg per 3 oz) from the brine solution, particularly for those watching their salt intake.
Excellent Protein Source: Costco rotisserie chicken breast is a great source of lean, high-quality protein.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Costco’s version is labeled gluten-free, but those with severe sensitivity should be mindful of potential cross-contamination.
Control Your Portions: Use a food scale to accurately measure a 4 oz serving to help manage calorie and protein intake effectively.
Healthier Pairing: Pair chicken with fresh vegetables and whole grains for a balanced meal.

Understanding the Calorie Count in Costco Rotisserie Chicken Breast

Costco rotisserie chicken breast is a popular choice due to its flavor. However, its calorie and nutritional profile differs from plain chicken breast. The calorie counts for 4 ounces (113g) vary, so it’s important to understand the influencing factors.

Various factors contribute to calorie variations. The skin's presence is the most significant factor, adding considerable calories due to its fat content. The pre-treatment of the chickens, including a brine solution to maintain moisture and add flavor, impacts the nutritional content, particularly the sodium levels. Calorie counts may also specify 'hand-pulled' breast meat versus general rotisserie chicken meat. These differences emphasize that variances exist, depending on the cut and preparation method within the store.

Why the Calorie Count Varies

The Impact of Chicken Skin

Eating chicken breast with the skin can greatly increase the calorie count. For example, a 4 oz portion of hand-pulled, skinless breast meat has approximately 147 calories, while a general 4 oz serving of rotisserie chicken (with some skin/fat) might be closer to 188 calories. Removing the skin reduces fat and calorie intake. The decision to include or exclude the skin has the greatest impact on calorie control.

Brining and Additives

Costco injects its rotisserie chickens with a solution to ensure moisture and flavor during cooking. This solution typically includes salt, sodium phosphate, and other flavor enhancers. The added sodium is a key nutritional detail to be aware of. A standard 3 oz serving of Costco rotisserie chicken contains 460 mg of sodium, roughly 20% of the recommended daily limit. Since the brine permeates the meat, removing the skin does not remove all of the sodium.

Nutritional Comparison: Costco vs. Plain Chicken Breast

Comparing Costco's rotisserie chicken breast with home-cooked, skinless, boneless chicken breast highlights how convenience affects nutritional facts.


Nutrient (per 4 oz)	Costco Rotisserie Chicken Breast (skin-on estimate)	Plain Cooked Chicken Breast (skinless)
Calories	~188	~169
Protein	~29g	~34g
Total Fat	~9g	~4g
Saturated Fat	~3g	~1.1g
Sodium	~722mg*	~84mg*

*Note: Sodium values are estimated for 4 oz based on information for 3 oz and 100g servings from various sources. Actual sodium can vary.

Beyond Calories: A Complete Nutritional Picture

While calories and macronutrients are crucial for diet planning, consider the micronutrients and additives in your food. Costco's rotisserie chicken provides essential nutrients, but its high sodium content is a drawback. The added brine solution increases sodium levels compared to plain chicken. This is particularly important for individuals with high blood pressure or those monitoring their sodium intake.

Removing the skin is the easiest step for a healthier option. Some prefer to cook their own chicken at home for complete control over ingredients and sodium levels. For more information on general chicken nutrition, including different cuts and cooking methods, reliable sources like Healthline can be helpful.

Healthy Ways to Enjoy Your Costco Rotisserie Chicken

Remove the skin: Reduces fat and calories, making it a leaner protein choice.
Portion Control: Use a food scale to measure your 4 oz serving size to meet your calorie goals.
Pair with Fresh Veggies: Combine shredded chicken with a large salad or roasted vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.
Make Healthy Wraps: Use the meat in whole-wheat wraps with fresh vegetables and low-calorie dressing.
Create Nourishing Soups: Add the chicken to a homemade, low-sodium broth with vegetables for a filling meal.
Avoid High-Sodium Sides: Be mindful of salty items, such as sauces, dressings, or processed sides.

Conclusion

The calorie count for 4 oz of Costco rotisserie chicken breast ranges from 147 to 188 calories, with the skin being the main factor. This convenient protein source is an easy weeknight meal, but its elevated sodium content is notable due to the brining process. By removing the skin and being mindful of portions, you can include Costco's rotisserie chicken in a balanced diet. Using a food scale and removing the skin will provide the most accurate estimate for those tracking nutrition. Ultimately, it remains a healthier fast-food alternative, and mindful consumption is key. For more resources on food and nutrition, check out sites like Eat This Much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Macros for a 4 oz serving of skinless, hand-pulled Costco rotisserie chicken breast are approximately 27g protein, 3g fat, and 0g carbs, totaling about 147 calories.

Yes, a 3 oz serving contains 460 mg of sodium due to the brine used to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. This is a significant portion of the recommended daily sodium intake.

According to Costco, the standard rotisserie chicken is labeled gluten-free by ingredient standards. However, those with celiac disease should be cautious of potential cross-contamination from shared equipment in the deli.

To make it healthier, remove the skin, reduce fat and calories, and pair it with fresh vegetables and whole grains. Be mindful of high-sodium sauces or dressings.

Chicken breast is the leaner option. Per 100 grams, cooked, skinless breast has about 165 calories, while a skinless thigh has around 179 calories, due to higher fat content.

Yes, cooking method significantly impacts calorie count. Frying or using heavy sauces adds calories and fat, whereas baking or grilling adds minimal extra calories.

Yes, it can be a great, high-protein component of a weight-loss diet, especially when eaten skinless and paired with healthy sides like salads or roasted vegetables.

Use a digital food scale. Place your plate or container on the scale, zero it out, and add the cooked, shredded, or chopped chicken until you reach 4 ounces (113 grams).