CTV News Interview: Is store-bought rotisserie chicken healthy? A Dietitian's Perspective

Today I had the opportunity to be interviewed by CTV News to discuss a question many people have been asking: Is rotisserie chicken actually healthy? We explored the nutrition benefits of rotisserie chicken, common concerns such as sodium content, food additives, and plastic packaging, and how it can fit into a balanced eating pattern. I'll also be sharing my perspective as a Registered Dietitian here, along with practical, evidence-based tips to help you make informed food choices.

Is store-bought rotisserie chicken healthy?

Overall, yes. Rotisserie chicken is a good source of high-quality protein, providing about 25–27 grams of protein in a 3-ounce (85 g) serving. It's also naturally rich in nutrients such as vitamin B12, niacin, vitamin B6, selenium, phosphorus, and zinc. For many people, choosing a rotisserie chicken to pair with vegetables and whole grains is a much healthier option than ordering fast food or highly processed takeout.

What Are the Main Nutrition Concerns?

The biggest concern isn't the chicken itself—it's the sodium. Many grocery stores inject rotisserie chickens with a seasoned salt solution to improve flavour and keep the meat juicy. Depending on the brand, sodium can vary considerably.

For most healthy adults, enjoying rotisserie chicken occasionally isn't a problem. However, people with high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, or those following a sodium-restricted diet should compare nutrition labels and choose lower-sodium options when available.

Another consideration is the skin, which contains more sodium, fat, and saturated fat than the meat. If you're trying to reduce sodium or saturated fat intake, removing the skin is a simple way to make the meal healthier.

What About Food Additives?

Some rotisserie chickens contain ingredients such as sodium phosphate, modified food starch, carrageenan, and natural flavours. These ingredients are approved for use in food and are considered safe for the general population. However, people with advanced kidney disease may be advised by their healthcare team to limit foods containing added phosphate ingredients.

Should We Be Worried About the Plastic Container?

This is a question I'm hearing more often. As dietitians, we focus on the overall quality of a person's diet and help clients make choices that balance nutrition, convenience, lifestyle, and potential risks. While reducing unnecessary exposure to chemicals from plastic packaging is reasonable, the packaging itself would generally not be the deciding factor when recommending a rotisserie chicken over a takeout meal, as both are typically packaged in food-grade plastic containers. Is one better than the other?

For clients who wish to further reduce plastic exposure, I recommend transferring hot foods, such as rotisserie chicken, to a glass, ceramic, or stainless steel container once they get home, particularly if storing leftovers. I also suggest reheating food in glass or ceramic containers rather than plastic whenever possible. These simple practices may help reduce unnecessary exposure while keeping the focus on overall diet quality and sustainable eating habits.

Golden-brown rotisserie chicken ready to serve, a convenient source of lean protein that can be part of a balanced diet.

Is Homemade Chicken Better?

Of course, ideally, preparing raw chicken at home is the preferred option, as it provides greater control over the ingredients, seasoning, cooking methods, and food storage practices. This allows clients to tailor the meal to their nutritional needs while also minimizing unnecessary exposure to food packaging.

Take-Home Message

Rotisserie chicken isn't a perfect food—but it doesn't have to be. If you pair it with plenty of vegetables and whole grains, choose a lower-sodium option when available, and remove the skin if you're watching your sodium or saturated fat intake, it can absolutely fit into a healthy eating pattern.

For many busy families, parents, students, and shift workers, a rotisserie chicken can make the difference between preparing a balanced meal at home and ordering less nutritious takeout. Sometimes convenience supports healthy eating.

At the end of the day, healthy eating is about your overall dietary pattern—not one single food. Making practical, sustainable choices most of the time is what has the greatest impact on long-term health.

Cheers,

Elaine Zhang

Registered Dietitian

Registered Clinical Counsellor