A 12.5 oz can of Kirkland Signature Premium Chunk Chicken Breast contains 3.5 servings, based on a 2 oz (56g) serving size of drained chicken. For those who buy the standard 6-pack of 12.5 oz cans from Costco, this provides a total of 21 servings. Understanding this information is crucial for accurately planning meals, tracking nutritional intake, and controlling portion sizes, whether you're making a simple chicken salad or a large casserole.
Understanding the Serving Size and Can Contents
The key to calculating portions from Kirkland canned chicken is to focus on the drained weight, not the total can weight. A single 12.5 oz (354g) can contains a significant amount of water used for packing. Once this water is drained, the net weight of the chicken is approximately 7 oz (198g).
The label specifies a serving size of 2 oz (56g). By dividing the 7 oz (198g) of drained chicken by the 2 oz (56g) serving size, you arrive at the 3.5 servings per can. This is the figure that should be used for nutritional calculations. The extra lean, chunk breast meat is a great source of protein and is fully cooked and ready to eat, adding convenience to your kitchen.
Practical Meal Planning with Kirkland Canned Chicken
Knowing the number of servings allows for efficient meal planning. For example, if you are preparing a dish for one or two people, you can easily use half a can and store the rest for later. Alternatively, a family-sized meal like a chicken pot pie or casserole might use the entire can or multiple cans, depending on the number of people being served. This shelf-stable protein source is perfect for quick dinners or last-minute lunch preparations.
Here are a few quick meal ideas that leverage the convenience of Kirkland canned chicken:
- Chicken Salad: Mix with mayonnaise, celery, and herbs for a classic sandwich filling.
- Quesadillas: Layer chicken with cheese and salsa in a tortilla.
- Soups: Add to soups like tortilla soup or chicken noodle for a protein boost.
- Casseroles: Incorporate into creamy casseroles for a hearty meal.
- Wraps or Pitas: Mix with Greek yogurt and vegetables for a healthy, high-protein lunch.
Comparing Kirkland Canned Chicken to Fresh Chicken Breast
Understanding the trade-offs between canned and fresh chicken can help in meal prep decisions. Here's a comparison:
| Feature | Kirkland Canned Chicken (2 oz serving, drained) | Fresh Cooked Chicken Breast (2 oz serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Ready-to-eat; requires no cooking or seasoning. | Requires cooking, seasoning, and prep time. |
| Shelf Life | Pantry-stable for months or even years. | Must be refrigerated and used within days. |
| Protein | 13g per serving. | Roughly 14-16g per serving (can vary). |
| Sodium | Higher, at 270mg per 2 oz serving. | Much lower; can be controlled by the cook. |
| Versatility | Excellent for cold dishes and quick add-ins. | Better for dishes that require specific textures. |
| Cost | Generally more cost-effective per gram of protein. | Often more expensive upfront. |
Conclusion
In summary, each 12.5 oz can of Kirkland Signature Premium Chunk Chicken Breast contains 3.5 servings, with a serving size of 2 ounces (56g) of drained meat. This breaks down to a usable amount of approximately 7 oz of chicken per can. The 6-pack conveniently totals 21 servings, providing a versatile and cost-effective protein source for various recipes, from simple salads to complex casseroles. By understanding the serving size and drained weight, consumers can accurately portion their meals, making this pantry staple an efficient tool for healthy and convenient cooking. For more nutritional details, the product label provides a wealth of information. A useful resource for nutritional information can be found on this Costco product page.
