Your Guide to Kirkland Chicken Sausage Calories and Nutrition
Many Costco shoppers enjoy the convenience and flavor of Kirkland Signature chicken sausages, but health-conscious consumers often want a deeper look at the nutritional content. The calories and macronutrients can vary depending on the specific flavor, so it is important to check the nutritional information for each variety to make informed dietary decisions.
Kirkland Signature Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper Chicken Sausage
One of the most popular flavors, the Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper chicken sausage, offers a savory and satisfying profile. For a single serving, which is one link (approximately 76g), the nutritional breakdown is as follows:
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Total Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Sodium: 640mg
This variety is a good source of protein and has a low carbohydrate count, making it a suitable option for those on a keto or low-carb diet. However, it's worth noting the relatively high sodium content, which should be considered if you are monitoring your sodium intake.
Kirkland Chicken Sausage with Spinach & Feta
Another widely available and often enjoyed flavor is the Chicken Sausage with Spinach & Feta. This version offers slightly different nutritional metrics. For one link (3.3 oz or ~94g), you can expect the following:
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Protein: 17g
- Total Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Sodium: 540mg
Compared to the Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper version, this one has slightly less fat and sodium but more protein per link, providing excellent value for protein content. The inclusion of spinach and feta also adds a different flavor dimension without significantly altering the macronutrient profile.
Comparing Different Kirkland Chicken Sausage Varieties
To provide a clearer picture, here is a comparison table of the most common Kirkland chicken sausage flavors based on a single-link serving:
| Nutritional Aspect | Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper | Spinach & Feta | Other Chicken Sausage (e.g., formerly Aidells) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 150 | Varies (e.g., 160-170 for Chicken & Apple) |
| Total Fat | 10g | 8g | Varies (e.g., 10-12g) |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 2.5g | Varies (e.g., 3-3.5g) |
| Protein | 14g | 17g | Varies (e.g., 13-14g) |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 1g | Varies (e.g., 3-4g) |
| Sodium | 640mg | 540mg | Varies (e.g., 660-770mg) |
Beyond Calories: Key Nutritional Insights
Beyond just the calorie count, several other nutritional factors are important to consider when evaluating Kirkland chicken sausages:
- Protein Source: Chicken sausage generally provides a lean protein source, which is essential for building muscle and feeling full. The Kirkland varieties typically offer 14-17 grams of protein per link, making them a robust addition to any meal.
- Sodium Content: As highlighted in the comparison, sodium levels can be high. A single link of the Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper variety can contribute over 25% of your recommended daily value for sodium. It is important to be mindful of this, especially if you have high blood pressure or other health concerns related to sodium intake.
- Minimal Processing: Many Kirkland chicken sausages are minimally processed and contain no artificial ingredients. This means fewer additives and a more natural product. Look for labels indicating “no antibiotics ever” and “minimally processed”.
- Gluten-Free: Several Kirkland chicken sausage options are gluten-free, making them suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Always check the packaging for the most current information.
Ways to Incorporate Chicken Sausage into Your Diet
Chicken sausage is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas to add this protein source to your meals:
- Breakfast Scramble: Slice and brown the sausage, then mix it with eggs, bell peppers, and onions for a flavorful breakfast.
- Pasta Dish: Cut the links into coins and add them to your favorite pasta sauce for a hearty dinner.
- Sheet Pan Dinner: Combine cooked chicken sausage with chopped vegetables like broccoli, potatoes, and carrots, toss with olive oil, and roast until tender.
- Grilling: Heat the fully cooked sausages on the grill for a quick and easy summer meal.
- Stir-Fry: Add sliced sausage to a vegetable stir-fry for extra protein.
Conclusion
When considering how many calories are in Kirkland chicken sausage, it's clear that the exact number depends on the flavor. The Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper and the Spinach & Feta varieties both contain approximately 150 calories per link, while other flavors may differ slightly. By examining the complete nutrition facts, including fat, protein, and sodium, you can better understand how these sausages fit into your overall diet. The Kirkland brand offers several convenient and protein-rich options, but it is important to be aware of the sodium content. When used in moderation and paired with other healthy foods, Kirkland chicken sausage can be a great addition to a balanced meal plan. For specific product details and availability, refer to the Costco website. You can also explore the specific nutrition facts for the Kirkland Signature Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper Chicken Sausage at the Costco Business Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in one link of Kirkland Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper chicken sausage?
One link of Kirkland Signature Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper chicken sausage contains 150 calories.
What is the serving size for Kirkland chicken sausage?
The standard serving size is one link, which weighs approximately 76g for the Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper variety.
Is Kirkland chicken sausage a good source of protein?
Yes, Kirkland chicken sausage is a good source of protein. For example, the Spinach & Feta variety contains 17g of protein per link.
Is Kirkland chicken sausage high in sodium?
Some varieties can be high in sodium. The Parmesan & Cracked Black Pepper flavor contains 640mg of sodium per link, which is a significant portion of the daily recommended intake.
Is the Aidells brand chicken sausage at Costco the same as Kirkland?
No, they are different products. Costco sometimes carries Aidells brand chicken sausage, which has different nutritional information and flavors than the Kirkland Signature brand.
Is Kirkland chicken sausage minimally processed?
Yes, many Kirkland Signature chicken sausage products, including the Parmesan and Cracked Black Pepper, are described as minimally processed with no artificial ingredients.
Are there other flavors of Kirkland chicken sausage besides Parmesan & Black Pepper?
Yes, another common flavor is Kirkland Chicken Sausage with Spinach & Feta. The selection can vary by location and time of year.
