The Just Bare Chicken Bites at Costco
When most people refer to “Costco chicken bites,” they are talking about the popular Just Bare brand products found in the freezer aisle. The most common variety is the Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks, which are fully cooked, breaded, and made from chicken raised without antibiotics. However, there is also an Oven Roasted Chicken Breast Bites variety available, which has a significantly different ingredient profile because it is not breaded. It's crucial to check the specific packaging to understand the exact ingredients and nutritional information for the product you are purchasing.
The Breakdown of Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Bites
The ingredient list for the Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks and Bites is divided into two main parts: the chicken and seasoning mixture, and the breading itself.
The Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
This section forms the core of the product, providing the chicken's primary flavor and texture.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: The primary ingredient, made from chickens raised without antibiotics ever.
- Water: Used to help the seasoning absorb into the meat and maintain moisture during cooking.
- Seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the bites their signature flavor profile. The seasoning includes: Sugar, Salt, Spices (including paprika and celery seed), Chicken Fat, Spice Extractive, Canola Oil, and Soybean Oil.
- Rice Starch: A gluten-free starch that serves as a binder and helps with moisture retention.
The Seasoned Breading Mixture
The crispy outer coating is what gives the breaded bites their popular texture. This is also where the main allergens are found.
- Wheat Flour: The base of the breading, containing gluten.
- Sugar: A small amount of sugar is added for flavor and to aid in browning.
- Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the breading.
- Nonfat Dry Milk: A milk derivative included in the breading, which is an important allergen for those with dairy sensitivities.
- Dried Egg Whites: Provides binding and structure to the breading, and is an egg allergen.
- Baking Powder: Contains leavening agents like sodium acid pyrophosphate and sodium bicarbonate to help the breading become light and crispy.
- Spice & Paprika: Additional spices for color and flavor.
- Breading Set in Vegetable Oil: The breading is set by being fried in vegetable oil, creating the final crispy texture.
Comparing Just Bare Breaded vs. Roasted Chicken Bites
For those with dietary restrictions or who prefer a different flavor profile, the oven-roasted version is a great alternative. It eliminates the breading and therefore removes several allergens.
| Feature | Just Bare Lightly Breaded Bites | Just Bare Oven Roasted Bites |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredients | Boneless skinless chicken breast, water, seasoning, and wheat-based breading | Boneless skinless chicken breast, water, seasoning |
| Allergens | Contains Wheat, Milk, and Eggs | No major allergens listed; always check packaging |
| Calories (per 3 oz) | Approx. 160 calories | Approx. 140 calories |
| Protein (per 3 oz) | 16g | 19g |
| Carbohydrates (per 3 oz) | 9g | 0g |
| Key Feature | Crispy, juicy, and lightly breaded with a savory flavor profile | Not breaded, focusing on a clean, roasted chicken flavor |
Just Bare's 'No Antibiotics Ever' Promise
An important selling point for Just Bare chicken is its commitment to using chicken raised without antibiotics. This promise assures consumers that the chickens are raised responsibly, with no antibiotics, added hormones, or steroids, which are federal prohibitions for all poultry anyway. The company also emphasizes that their chicken is minimally processed and contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives. The chickens are also raised cage-free, with the freedom to roam in barns. For many shoppers, these standards are a significant factor in their purchasing decision. You can find more information about their brand standards on their official website: Just Bare Chicken.
Serving and Preparation
Both the breaded and roasted chicken bites are fully cooked and can be prepared quickly in an oven, air fryer, or microwave. The preparation method significantly affects the final texture. For example, an air fryer or conventional oven will produce a crispier exterior on the breaded bites compared to a microwave, which is best for quick reheating. The bites are versatile and can be used in numerous meals, from salads and wraps to sliders or simply served with a dipping sauce.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Snack
The ingredients in Costco's Just Bare chicken bites, whether breaded or roasted, are transparently listed and represent a convenient frozen food option for many families. Understanding the specific components is essential for those managing dietary restrictions, such as gluten, dairy, or egg allergies, as the breaded variety contains these major allergens. By offering both a breaded and a non-breaded option, Just Bare caters to a wider range of tastes and dietary needs, all while maintaining their promise of antibiotic-free, minimally processed chicken. This ingredient transparency and product diversity are key to their success and popularity with Costco shoppers.
Common Allergens and Other Considerations
Beyond the specific components, it is important to be aware of other factors when considering the Just Bare chicken bites. The breaded variety contains major allergens, as mentioned above. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities should avoid the breaded bites entirely and opt for the roasted version. For individuals with soy or canola oil sensitivities, these ingredients are also listed in the seasoning blend. Additionally, while the chicken is antibiotic-free, the overall health profile of the breaded version—with its higher sodium and added sugars—should be considered for a balanced diet.
