The Unexpected Red Flag To Remember When Buying A Rotisserie Chicken

A perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken can be a convenient and relatively budget-friendly supermarket find. Plus, there are so many clever ways to enhance your rotisserie chicken, as well as easy hacks like using any leftovers for taco night. But how can you be sure you're choosing a good chicken? Many shoppers may focus on appearance and price (which are important factors), but an unexpected red flag can signal a less-than-ideal purchase: an overstocked rotisserie chicken display.

A high chicken turnover rate suggest that the store uses high-quality products and has mastered the seasoning and cooking process. This consistent rotation indicates that the chickens are freshly prepared and that customers are satisfied. On the flip side, an overflowing rotisserie chicken counter can indicate underlying issues. For starters, a large quantity of unsold chickens could mean lower quality or even less-than-ideal cooking techniques. It could also indicate that the store is overproducing, and lacks knowledge of its customer base.

While a single instance of an overstocked display shouldn't be cause for alarm, it could be worth exploring other options if you often observe an abundance of unsold rotisserie chickens at your grocery store. Remember, it's important take the store's reputation for quality and cleanliness into account before shopping there. 

When choosing your rotisserie chicken, make sure to look for evenly browned, moist-looking meat and avoid chickens that are pale or appear dry. A well-seasoned chicken will have visible herbs and spices. Play close attention to the skin, as cracking can mean the chicken is overcooked. Also, the chicken should be hot – 165 degrees Fahrenheit or higher– to ensure it is being kept at a temperature that keeps it safe for consumption. A well-prepared, tasty rotisserie chicken will undoubtedly sell quickly, and stores that prioritize quality and proper cooking methods will likely see a steady demand.