Calories in Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage: A Complete Nutritional Breakdown

Are you a Costco shopper wondering about those delicious-looking chicken and apple sausages in the refrigerated section? Maybe you’re counting calories or following a specific diet plan and need to know if these sausages fit into your meal plan Well, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’m diving deep into the nutritional profile of Costco’s Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage

As someone who’s always on the lookout for tasty protein options that won’t break my calorie bank, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Let’s get into everything you need to know about these popular sausages!

Quick Nutritional Summary

Before we get into the details here’s the bottom line 1 link (3.5 oz) of Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage contains 160 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is approximately 8% carbs 57% fat, and 35% protein, making it a good source of protein (about 25% of your Daily Value).

Detailed Nutritional Breakdown

Let’s break down the nutritional content of one link (3.5 oz serving) of these sausages:

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Pros of Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage

These sausages have several nutritional advantages:

• Excellent protein source: With 14g of protein per link, these sausages provide about 29% of your daily protein needs.
• Lower in calories than traditional pork sausages
• Contains healthy fats: Includes monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats
• Low in sugar: Only 2g per serving
• Gluten-free: Great for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease
• Flavorful option: The apple adds a hint of sweetness without too many extra carbs

Cons to Consider

However, there are some nutritional drawbacks to be aware of:

• Sodium content: At 770mg per link, these sausages contain about 33% of your recommended daily sodium intake, which may be concerning for those monitoring blood pressure
• Moderate fat content: While lower than traditional sausages, they still contain 10g of fat per link
• Not paleo-friendly: Contains apple juice concentrate and sugar

How Long Would It Take to Burn Off These Calories?

If you’re wondering how much exercise you’d need to do to burn off one of these sausages, here’s a quick breakdown based on a 35-year-old, 144-pound woman who is 5’7″ tall:

• Swimming: 13 minutes
• Jogging: 18 minutes
• Cycling: 24 minutes
• Walking: 45 minutes

These times will vary depending on your weight, age, and exercise intensity, but they give you a general idea.

Common Serving Sizes and Their Calorie Content

Different sources provide slightly different information on serving sizes:

• 1 link (3.5 oz/99g): 160 calories
• 1 link (78g): 140 calories
• 100g: 205 calories
• 1 oz (28g): 58 calories

Ingredients List

The Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage contains:

• Skinless chicken meat
• Dried apple
• Water
• Apple juice concentrate
• 2% or less of: salt, spices, dehydrated garlic, parsley, sugar, dried vinegar, natural flavors
• Natural pork casing

Is This Sausage Keto-Friendly?

With only 3g of total carbs and 0.5g of fiber (making 2.5g net carbs) per link, these sausages can fit into a ketogenic diet if consumed in moderation. The macro breakdown of approximately 57% fat and 35% protein also aligns well with keto guidelines.

However, do note that they do contain some sugar from the apple juice concentrate, so strict keto dieters might want to be mindful of this.

How Does It Compare to Other Sausages?

Compared to traditional pork sausages, the Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage is:

• Lower in calories
• Lower in fat
• Higher in protein
• Similar in sodium content

This makes it a healthier alternative to most traditional sausage options, especially if you’re watching your calorie or fat intake.

Cooking Ideas and Serving Suggestions

These versatile sausages can be prepared in several ways:

1. Grilled: Perfect for summer BBQs
2. Pan-fried: Quick and easy for weeknight dinners
3. Baked: Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F
4. Sliced and added to pasta: Creates a quick and flavorful meal
5. Chopped in omelets: Adds protein and flavor to breakfast
6. Added to soups and stews: Enhances flavor depth
7. Sliced on pizza: A gourmet pizza topping option

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat these sausages on a low-carb diet?

Yes! With only 3g of carbs per link, they’re suitable for most low-carb diets.

Are these sausages fully cooked?

Yes, Bruce Aidells sausages are fully cooked. You just need to heat them through before serving.

Can I freeze these sausages?

Absolutely! They freeze well for several months in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.

Where can I buy these sausages besides Costco?

While Costco is the main retailer, you might also find them at specialty grocery stores or order them online.

How long do they last in the refrigerator?

Typically, they last about 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator if unopened. Once opened, try to consume them within 3-5 days.

Health Considerations

If you’re on a specific diet or have health concerns, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Sodium content: At 770mg per link, these are relatively high in sodium. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, you might want to limit your consumption.
• Protein: These sausages provide an excellent source of protein, making them a good option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
• Allergens: While they’re gluten-free, they do contain pork casings, which may be an issue for those avoiding pork products.

My Personal Experience

I’ve been buying these sausages for years, and they’re a staple in my fridge. What I love most is their versatility—I can grill them for a quick lunch, slice them into my morning eggs, or chop them up for a pasta dinner. The sweet apple flavor balances perfectly with the savory chicken, and they’re juicy without being greasy like traditional pork sausages.

For just 160 calories, they’re quite filling and help me hit my protein goals for the day. I’ve found them especially useful when I’m busy but still want something tasty and nutritious.

Bottom Line: Are They Worth It?

If you’re looking for a flavorful, protein-rich sausage that’s lower in calories than traditional options, the Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage is definitely worth trying. While they’re not the lowest-sodium option out there, their taste and versatility make them a great addition to many diet plans.

For those counting calories or macros, these sausages offer a good balance of nutrients and can easily fit into most eating plans. The fact that they’re fully cooked also makes them a convenient option for quick meals.

So next time you’re at Costco, consider adding these sausages to your cart—your taste buds will thank you, and your nutrition plan probably won’t mind either!

Final Thoughts

Understanding the nutritional content of the foods we eat is crucial for making informed dietary choices. Whether you’re counting calories, following a specific diet plan, or just trying to eat healthier, knowing what’s in your food empowers you to make better decisions.

The Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage offers a tasty alternative to traditional sausages with a better nutritional profile. At 160 calories per link with 14g of protein, they can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy these sausages? Have you found other lower-calorie alternatives that you love? I’d be interested to hear about your experiences in the comments below!