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Costco's Rotisserie Chicken: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Holiday Protein

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/11/11 .. he-ultimate-budget-friendly-holiday-protein.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, November 11th 2025 at 14:11 GMT by Business Insider

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What Costco Has to Offer the Holiday Table: A Culinary Judge’s Must‑Buy Guide
(Business Insider, November 2022)

When the holiday season rolls around, grocery shopping can feel like a chore rather than a celebration. In a practical effort to keep holiday menus both spectacular and budget‑friendly, a professional culinary judge turned to Costco for a list of “must‑buy” items that will set the table for friends, family, and the occasional guest. The resulting roundup (originally published on Business Insider) is a handy reference for anyone looking to make the most of Costco’s bulk‑price advantage while still delivering restaurant‑quality flavor.

1. The Big‑Name Protein Staples

1.1. Rotisserie Chicken – the Holiday Workhorse

The judge notes that Costco’s rotisserie chicken is consistently the best value in the market. With a 2‑pound bird priced at roughly $4.99, it’s not only cheap, it’s also flavorful and versatile: use the meat for turkey‑sandwich‑style salads, shredded for tacos, or simply pair it with a holiday side dish. The business‑insider article links to a Costco page where the chicken’s nutritional facts and storage instructions are shown.

1.2. Kirkland Signature Prime Rib

For those wanting a premium entrée without breaking the bank, the Prime Rib comes in a 6‑lb pack for just under $40. The judge emphasizes that the bone‑in, bone‑in‑the‑center cut offers both tenderness and the classic “sacred” rib flavor that many holiday tables crave. The article also links to a cooking guide that suggests roasting the rib at 325 °F for about 2 hours, then resting before slicing.

1.3. Fresh and Frozen Fish

Costco’s frozen salmon (wild‑caught, 1‑lb fillets) is highlighted for its rich flavor and straightforward preparation. The culinary judge recommends baking it with lemon‑garlic butter. The article includes a link to Costco’s seasonal seafood catalog, where the same salmon can be compared to other fish offerings such as tilapia and scallops.

2. Savory Sides & Vegetables

2.1. Pre‑Cut Green Beans and Sweet Potato Fries

Bulk vegetable packs are a lifesaver for holiday prep. Costco’s pre‑cut green beans (1‑lb bag) are ideal for a quick sauté, while the pre‑cut sweet potato fries are a crunchy side that can be tossed with olive oil and smoked paprika. Both items come with a simple seasoning guide on the Costco product page.

2.2. Kirkland Signature Cauliflower “Rice”

The judge recommends the cauliflower rice as a low‑carb substitute that can serve as the base for a side dish or an ingredient in a holiday casserole. The item is sold in 2‑lb bags and can be sautéed in a skillet for 5 minutes.

3. Bread, Baked Goods & Sweet Treats

3.1. Kirkland Signature Cinnamon Rolls

The culinary judge is enamored with the cost‑effective cinnamon rolls, which come in a 24‑pack for about $12. The article links to a recipe guide that shows how to double‑top the rolls with icing for a show‑stopping dessert. These are especially handy when you have a last‑minute dinner plan.

3.2. Holiday Cookies & Pastries

During the holiday season, Costco offers a range of baked goods—glazed donuts, biscotti, and holiday‑specific cookies. The judge recommends buying a mix of plain and chocolate chip varieties for a simple dessert spread. The Business Insider article includes a link to Costco’s seasonal bakery page where each item’s flavor profile and price are listed.

4. Dairy & Creamy Essentials

4.1. Kirkland Signature Sour Cream & Yogurt

The judge points out that the Kirkland sour cream, available in a 64‑oz tub, is perfect for making creamy dips or adding richness to mashed potatoes. A 4‑lb tub of plain Greek yogurt is also highlighted for its versatility in making desserts or savory sauces.

4.2. Cheese Selections

Costco’s cheese section offers a surprisingly diverse array of options—brie, cheddar, gouda, and pre‑shredded mozzarella. The judge recommends buying the pre‑shredded mozzarella in bulk for lasagna or pizza, and the gouda for a cheese platter.

5. Pantry Staples

5.1. Kirkland Signature Pasta & Rice

The judge notes that the 1‑lb pasta and 5‑lb rice packs come with a huge value and that both can be cooked in bulk and stored in the freezer for future meals. Links in the article direct readers to Costco’s kitchen staples page, where product details such as cooking times and suggested pairings are displayed.

5.2. Olive Oil & Vinegar

The article recommends purchasing the 1‑L extra‑virgin olive oil (price $10) and the 1‑L balsamic vinegar (price $8) as foundational ingredients. The judge points out that a simple vinaigrette with these two can elevate salads and roasted vegetables.

6. Beverages & Festive Extras

6.1. Wine & Sparkling Water

Costco’s wine offerings (including red, white, and rosé) are often priced at 30–40% less than comparable brands. The judge suggests picking a bottle of dry white for holiday soups and a dry rosé for light salads. The article links to the wine selection page where seasonal deals are displayed.

6.2. Kirkland Signature Hot Cocoa Mix

For dessert, the judge recommends the Kirkland hot cocoa mix (1‑lb bag). When paired with the cheese platter, it’s a cozy addition to the meal. The product page includes suggested flavor variations such as adding cinnamon or a splash of peppermint extract.

7. How the Culinary Judge Uses the List

The Business Insider article quotes the judge saying, “The goal is to create a menu that’s both impressive and accessible. By focusing on bulk items that don’t compromise on flavor, you can feed a crowd without spending a fortune.” The judge further explains that many holiday staples are available at Costco year‑round—there’s no need to wait for a seasonal sale.

The article also links to a video interview where the judge demonstrates a quick “holiday dinner in 30 minutes” using several of the Costco items mentioned. Viewers get to see the step‑by‑step preparation for a roast chicken, a side of roasted veggies, and a quick dessert.

8. Final Takeaway

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a last‑minute dinner planner, Costco’s assortment of bulk items can dramatically simplify holiday meal planning. From protein to sides, breads to desserts, the judge’s list showcases a curated mix of high‑quality, affordable foods that maintain flavor without compromising on presentation. By following the links to Costco’s product pages, you can check pricing, read nutritional information, and even explore additional recipe ideas—all at a fraction of the cost you’d pay for the same items at a regular grocery store.

In short, the holiday table doesn’t need to be expensive or labor‑intensive. With Costco’s bulk buys and a bit of culinary know‑how, you can serve a memorable meal that satisfies both palate and budget.