Is Costco Rotisserie Chicken Gluten-Free? A Must-Read for Celiac and Gluten-Sensitive Shoppers (+Video)

Celiac.com 06/04/2025 - Costco’s famous rotisserie chicken is a staple for many households—affordable, convenient, and delicious. But for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, the big question is: Is it safe to eat?

In this article, we’ll break down whether Costco’s rotisserie chicken is gluten-free, examine potential cross-contamination risks, and provide tips for gluten-free shoppers.

1. The Short Answer: Is Costco Rotisserie Chicken Gluten-Free?

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According to Costco’s official allergen information, their classic rotisserie chicken does not contain gluten ingredients. The main ingredients are chicken, water, salt, and seasoning blends (which typically include sugar, spices, and natural flavors). Costo has confirmed that their standard rotisserie chicken seasoning does not include wheat, barley, or rye.

However, cross-contamination is still a possibility due to shared cooking equipment and preparation areas. Costco does not label their rotisserie chicken as "certified gluten-free," so those with severe gluten intolerance or celiac disease should proceed with caution.

2. Why Gluten-Free Consumers Need to Be Cautious

For people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), even trace amounts of gluten can trigger symptoms like digestive distress, fatigue, and long-term intestinal damage. Here’s what to consider:

A. Shared Cooking Equipment

Costco’s rotisserie chickens are often prepared in the same ovens and handled with the same utensils as other gluten-containing products (like stuffed chicken or seasoned meats). While employees follow cleaning protocols, residual gluten could remain.

B. Seasoning and Marinades

While the standard seasoning is gluten-free, seasonings can change, and some regional Costco locations may use different ingredients. Always check the label (if available) or ask store staff for the latest allergen info.

C. Handling and Packaging

The chickens are packaged in plastic containers that may have been near gluten-containing foods in the deli area. If you’re highly sensitive, this could pose a risk.

3. What Costco Says About Gluten in Their Rotisserie Chicken

Costo’s corporate allergen statements indicate that their plain rotisserie chicken is gluten-free by ingredient standards, but they do not guarantee it’s safe for celiacs due to potential cross-contact.

Some key points:

• No wheat-based ingredients are used in the standard seasoning.
• No gluten-containing additives (like soy sauce or malt vinegar) are listed.
• No official gluten-free certification means there’s no third-party verification of safety.

If you’re unsure, contact Costco’s customer service or ask the deli manager at your local store for the most current information.

4. How to Safely Enjoy Costco Rotisserie Chicken (If You’re Gluten-Free)

If you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity, follow these precautions:

A. Check the Label (If Available)

Some Costco locations provide ingredient lists for their rotisserie chickens. Look for any mention of:

• Wheat
• Barley
• Rye
• Malt
• Modified food starch (unless specified as corn-based)

B. Ask Store Staff

Politely inquire:

• "Does this rotisserie chicken contain any gluten ingredients?"
• "Is it prepared in a shared fryer or oven with gluten-containing foods?"

C. Consider Alternative Options

If cross-contamination is a concern, you might:

• Buy a plain raw chicken and cook it at home with gluten-free seasonings.
• Look for pre-packaged certified gluten-free rotisserie chickens (some grocery stores carry these).

5. What Other Gluten-Free Shoppers Have Experienced

Many gluten-free consumers report eating Costco’s rotisserie chicken without issues, while others have had reactions. Here’s what some say:

• Positive Experiences: Most find it safe if they tolerate minor cross-contact risks.
• Negative Reactions: A few report symptoms, possibly due to hidden gluten in seasoning variations or handling.
• Bottom line: Individual tolerance levels vary. If you're highly sensitive, proceed with caution.

6. Final Verdict: Should You Eat Costco Rotisserie Chicken?

Likely Safe For:

• Those with mild gluten sensitivity
• People who don’t react to trace cross-contamination

Use Caution If:

• You have celiac disease (risk of cross-contact)
• You’ve had reactions to Costco chicken before

Avoid If:

• You require certified gluten-free foods
• You’ve had past reactions to deli-prepared meats

7. Gluten-Free Alternatives to Costco Rotisserie Chicken

If you’d rather avoid the risk, consider:

• Whole Foods’ gluten-free rotisserie chicken (certified GF in some locations)
• Sprouts or Trader Joe’s organic roasted chicken (check labels)
• Homemade rotisserie-style chicken (using gluten-free spices)

Conclusion

Costco’s rotisserie chicken does not contain gluten ingredients, but cross-contamination is possible. For most gluten-sensitive individuals, it’s a convenient and safe option—but those with celiac disease should weigh the risks or opt for certified gluten-free alternatives.

Always double-check labels and ask staff when in doubt!

Would you like additional tips on gluten-free shopping at Costco? Let us know in the comments!

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