Sizzling Secrets: Unpacking the Calories in Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken Apple Sausage!

Hey there, food lovers! If you’ve ever wandered the aisles of Costco and stumbled upon Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken Apple Sausage, you prolly wondered, “How many calories am I stuffin’ into my face with this tasty link?” Well, I’m here to spill the beans—or rather, the sausage stats! One link of this juicy, sweet-savory delight clocks in at 160 calories Yup, that’s the magic number for a 3.5 oz serving. But hold on, there’s way more to this story than just a number. We’re gonna dive deep into what makes up those calories, why this sausage might just be your new go-to protein, and how to whip it up in ways that’ll make your taste buds dance

At its core, this sausage breaks down to about 8% carbs, 57% fat, and 35% protein. That means it’s a solid protein punch—packin’ in about 25% of your daily value per link. Whether you’re watchin’ your waistline or just curious about what you’re eatin’, I’ve got the full scoop for ya. Let’s break it down, toss in some cookin’ tips, and even dream up some killer recipes. Stick with me, and let’s get this flavor party started!

What’s Inside Those 160 Calories?

First things first, let’s unpack what those 160 calories really mean I mean, calories are just energy, right? But where they come from matters a whole lotta. Here’s the nitty-gritty on one link (35 oz) of this chicken apple goodness

• Total Fat: 10 grams (that’s about 15% of your daily value). Outta that, 3 grams are saturated fat. Not too shabby for a sausage, which can sometimes be a grease bomb.
• Carbohydrates: Just 3 grams, makin’ up a tiny 1% of your daily intake. There’s 0.5 grams of fiber and 2 grams of sugar, likely from them sweet apples mixed in.
• Protein: A hearty 14 grams, which is a solid chunk—about 25% of what you need daily if you’re followin’ a standard diet. Great for muscle repair or just keepin’ ya full.
• Other Stuff: You’re also gettin’ 90 mg of cholesterol (30% daily value) and a bit of a sodium kick at 770 mg (32% daily value). Plus, tiny bits of calcium, iron, and vitamin C.

So what’s the vibe here? This ain’t no diet food but it’s definitely not the worst thing you could munch on. Compared to pork or beef sausages, which can easily hit 300 calories a pop, this chicken-based option feels like a lighter choice. The fat’s there, sure, but the protein makes it worthwhile, especially if you’re balancin’ it with some veggies or a salad on the side.

Now, if you’re countin’ calories like a hawk, you might notice some folks out there tossin’ around different numbers for this sausage. I’ve seen some say it’s closer to 130, but based on what I’ve dug up, 160 per link is the real deal for a standard serving. Could vary a tad dependin’ on how it’s cooked or slight batch differences, but we’re stickin’ with this as our baseline.

What’s This Sausage Made Of, Anyways?

Alright, now that we’ve got the calorie count down, let’s chat about what’s actually in this thing. I gotta say, when I first tried this sausage, I was hooked on that sweet and savory combo. Turns out, it’s a mix of some pretty wholesome stuff with a gourmet twist. Here’s the rundown of what goes into makin’ this tasty link:

• Chicken Breast: The main player here. It’s all-natural, lean meat, which keeps the calorie count lower than your typical pork sausage. Plus, it’s the big protein source.
• Apples: Yup, real apples! They add a sweet, tangy bite that pairs crazy well with the chicken. Also sneaks in a lil’ bit of natural sugar and fiber.
• Spices and Herbs: Think sage, coriander, and other aromatic goodies. These give it a warm, comforting flavor without needin’ a ton of extra junk.
• Red Wine: A splash of this adds some serious depth. Don’t worry, it ain’t gonna get ya buzzed—it’s just for richness.
• No Artificial Junk: One thing I love is there’s no fake preservatives in here. It’s crafted to keep things as clean as possible for a processed meat.

This mix ain’t just about taste, though. It’s a nod to healthier eatin’. Chicken over pork or beef means less saturated fat, and them apples bring a touch of nature to the party. When I grill these up, I can almost smell the orchard vibes mixin’ with the herbs. It’s a game-changer compared to plain ol’ sausages.

Is It Healthy or What?

Now, let’s get real for a sec. “Healthy” is a tricky word, ain’t it? Depends on what you’re aimin’ for in your diet. So, let’s break down if this Chicken Apple Sausage fits the bill for a good-for-ya meal option.

• Protein Power: With 14 grams per link, this is a fantastic way to fuel up. Whether you’re hittin’ the gym or just need somethin’ to keep ya goin’, it’s got your back.
• Fat Factor: At 10 grams of fat, it’s not exactly low-fat, but it’s way better than many other sausages out there. The fat mostly comes from the chicken and a bit of added richness, not a deep-fry disaster.
• Sodium Watch: Here’s where ya gotta pay attention. At 770 mg per link, it’s a decent chunk of your daily sodium limit (which is around 2,300 mg, or ideally less than 1,500 mg if you’re bein’ strict). If you’re watchin’ your salt, maybe don’t pair this with a bag of chips.
• Low Carb Bonus: Only 3 grams of carbs means this won’t spike your blood sugar. Great if you’re keepin’ things low-carb or just balancin’ your plate.
• Gluten-Free Vibes: Good news for my gluten-sensitive pals—this sausage is crafted without gluten. Still, double-check the package just in case, but it’s usually a safe bet for dietary restrictions.

My take? It’s a solid choice if you’re eatin’ it in moderation. I wouldn’t scarf down five links in one sittin’, but tossin’ one or two into a meal with some greens or whole grains makes for a balanced bite. Plus, it’s got that lean chicken base, which feels better than heavier meats. I’ve been known to sneak these into my breakfast when I’m tryin’ to keep things lighter but still want somethin’ hearty.

One lil’ tip from yours truly: how you cook it matters. Grill or bake it instead of fryin’ in a pool of oil, and you’ll keep them extra calories at bay. I’ve made the mistake of overdoin’ the butter in the pan, and lemme tell ya, it adds up quick!

How Many Calories Do You Burn Eatin’ This?

Okay, not literally while eatin’—I mean, how long it takes to work off them 160 calories. If you’re like me and sometimes feel a tad guilty after indulgin’, here’s a fun lil’ breakdown. Based on a typical person (say, a 35-year-old gal, 5’7”, weighin’ about 144 lbs), here’s how long you’d need to hustle to burn off one link:

• Swimmin’: About 13 minutes. Grab your goggles and hit the pool!
• Joggin’: Roughly 18 minutes. Time to lace up them sneakers.
• Cyclin’: Around 24 minutes. Pedal your heart out.
• Walkin’: A chill 45 minutes. Perfect for a post-meal stroll.

Now, I ain’t sayin’ you gotta exercise every time you eat one of these. But it’s kinda cool to know, right? I usually just take my dog for a longer walk on days I’ve had a sausage or two. Keeps the guilt away and gets us both some fresh air.

Cookin’ Up a Storm with Chicken Apple Sausage

Speakin’ of eatin’, let’s talk about gettin’ this sausage from package to plate. There’s a buncha ways to cook it, and I’ve tried most of ‘em. Here’s my fave methods to keep it juicy and flavorful without pilin’ on extra calories.

• Grillin’: Throw it on the grill for that smoky, charred vibe. Takes about 10-15 minutes over medium heat, turnin’ occasionally. I love how the apple sweetness pops with a bit of grill mark.
• Oven Bakkin’: Preheat to 400°F, pop the links on a baking sheet (line it with parchment for easy cleanup), and bake for 20-25 minutes. Flip ‘em halfway. Bonus points if ya toss some apple chunks around ‘em for extra flavor.
• Skillet Sizzlin’: Heat a skillet over medium, maybe a tiny splash of oil if it’s not non-stick, and cook for 12-15 minutes, turnin’ often. Keeps it nice and moist.
• Pro Tip: Whatever way you cook it, aim for an internal temp of 165°F to make sure it’s safe to eat. And hey, sometimes I slice ‘em up before cookin’ to mix into other dishes—works like a charm.

One time, I got a lil’ fancy and baked these with some sliced apples and a drizzle of maple syrup. Man, it was like breakfast and dessert had a baby. If you’re lookin’ to keep calories in check, though, skip the syrup and just let the natural flavors shine.

Recipe Ideas to Make Your Mouth Water

Now, I ain’t just gonna leave ya with cookin’ methods. Let’s dream up some dishes to use this sausage in. It’s super versatile, thanks to that sweet-savory thang it’s got goin’ on. Here’s a few ideas I’ve whipped up over the years.

1. Chicken Apple Sausage Breakfast Skillet

This is my go-to when I’m feelin’ lazy but want somethin’ fillin’. It’s a one-pan wonder.

• Ingredients (serves 2):
  • 2 Chicken Apple Sausage links, sliced
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 small potato, diced
  • Half a bell pepper, chopped
  • Handful of spinach
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
• Steps:
  1. Heat a skillet over medium, toss in the sausage slices, and cook for 5-7 minutes till browned.
  2. Add diced potato and bell pepper, cook another 10 minutes till taters are soft.
  3. Throw in spinach for a minute to wilt.
  4. Crack eggs on top, cook to your likin’ (I’m a sunny-side-up kinda guy).
  5. Sprinkle salt and pepper, then dig in!

This keeps the calorie count reasonable while packin’ in protein and veggies. Plus, it looks all gourmet without much effort.

2. Sausage and Veggie Soup

Perfect for them chilly nights when ya need somethin’ warm in your belly.

• Ingredients (serves 4):
  • 3 Chicken Apple Sausage links, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • Handful of kale
• Steps:
  1. In a big pot, sauté the sausage slices for 5 minutes till they got some color.
  2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook another 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in broth and tomatoes, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  4. Toss in kale for the last 5 minutes. Season as ya like.

This soup is hearty but won’t weigh ya down. The apple in the sausage gives it a unique lil’ sweetness that pairs awesome with the savory broth.

3. Sausage Kebabs for the Grill

Wanna impress at a BBQ? Try this out.

• Ingredients (serves 4):
  • 4 Chicken Apple Sausage links, cut into chunks
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
  • 1 apple, cut into chunks (keep the skin on for texture)
  • Skewers (soak if wooden)
• Steps:
  1. Thread sausage, onion, pepper, and apple onto skewers, alternatin’ for color.
  2. Grill over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turnin’ to char all sides.
  3. Serve hot off the grill with maybe a lil’ mustard on the side.

These are a crowd-pleaser, and they keep things lighter than beef or pork kebabs. I’ve had folks askin’ for seconds before I even sat down!

Where Can Ya Grab This Sausage?

If I’ve got ya droolin’ over this Chicken Apple Sausage, you’re prolly wonderin’ where to snag some. Well, it’s a Costco special, so your best bet is headin’ to a local warehouse club. They got a killer selection of gourmet meats, and this one’s often stocked in the refrigerated section near other sausages. If you’re not near a Costco or don’t got a membership, check out some specialty food markets or higher-end grocery stores. Look in the meat or deli area—they sometimes carry it too, though stock can be hit or miss.

For my online shoppin’ peeps, peek at Costco’s website. You can order for delivery if you’re a member, which is clutch when you don’t wanna leave the house. I’ve done this a few times when I’m stockin’ up for a big cookout. Just make sure to check availability, ‘cause it’s a popular pick.

Freezin’ and Storin’ Tips

One thing I’ve learned is this sausage freezes like a dream, which is awesome for meal preppin’. If you buy a big pack at Costco, you don’t gotta cook ‘em all at once. Here’s how I handle it:

• Pop uncooked links into an airtight freezer bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as ya can to dodge freezer burn.
• Slap a label on there with the date. Trust me, you’ll forget when you froze it otherwise.
• When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then cook to 165°F internal temp for safety.

I’ve kept ‘em frozen for a couple months with no weird taste or texture issues. It’s a lifesaver for quick meals when I ain’t got time to shop.

Why I’m Obsessed with This Sausage

Lemme get personal for a hot minute. I first stumbled on this Chicken Apple Sausage during a random Costco run a few years back. I was lookin’ for somethin’ different to throw on the grill, and the “apple” in the name caught my eye. I mean, fruit in a sausage? Weird, but intriguing. First bite, and I was sold. That lil’ hint of sweetness with the savory chicken and herbs—it’s just different, ya know? Plus, knowin’ it’s only 160 calories a link made me feel less guilty about goin’ back for seconds.

Since then, it’s been a staple in my kitchen. I’ve tossed it into breakfast hashes, sliced it up for pasta, and even just eaten it straight off the grill with a dab of mustard. It’s one of them foods that feels fancy without bein’ a pain to cook. And for someone like me who’s tryin’ to eat a bit healthier but still craves flavor, it hits all the right notes.

Comparin’ It to Other Sausages

Just to give ya some perspective, let’s stack this up against other popular sausages. I’ve tried a bunch over the years, and here’s how it measures up calorie-wise and vibe-wise.

Seein’ this, I reckon the Chicken Apple option holds its own. It’s not the lowest in calories (turkey might edge it out sometimes), but the flavor profile is on a whole other level. Plus, that protein-to-fat ratio ain’t bad at all. I’ve swapped out pork sausages for these in recipes before, and honestly, I don’t miss the extra grease one bit.

Final Thoughts on Them Calories

So, there ya have it—the full lowdown on the calories in Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken Apple Sausage. At 160 calories per link, it’s a flavorful option that doesn’t totally wreck your diet, especially with that solid 14 grams of protein. Yeah, the sodium’s a bit high, so keep an eye on that, but overall, it’s a win for a quick, tasty bite.

Whether you’re grillin’, bakin’, or tossin’ it into a soup, this sausage brings somethin’ special to the table. I’ve shared my fave ways to cook it, some recipes I’ve fiddled with, and even how to store it for later. If you ain’t tried it yet, swing by Costco or check online and grab a pack. Trust me, your meals are about to get a serious upgrade.

Got any wild recipes or tips for this sausage? Drop ‘em in the comments—I’m always down to try somethin’ new in the kitchen. Let’s keep this food convo goin’!

Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage, the most common brand found at Costco, contains 170 calories per link (or serving of 85g), with 11g of total fat, 13g of protein, and 4g of total carbohydrates. The exact calorie count can vary slightly depending on the specific package and size, so it’s always best to check the nutrition label on the product you purchase.

Costco chicken sausages generally contain around 130-160 calories per link, though this varies by flavor and brand, with the Kirkland Signature Parmesan & Cracked Pepper variety having 150 calories per link.

All Natural Chicken Apple Sausage