Calories in Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken Apple Sausage: The Tasty Truth You Gotta Know!

Hey there, food fam! Ever grabbed a pack of them Costco Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken Apple Sausages and wondered, “How many calories am I chowing down here?” Well, buckle up, ‘cause I’m spillin’ the beans on this juicy tidbit right outta the gate. One link of this sweet and savory sausage packs 160 calories. Yup, just 160! But there’s a whole lotta more to unpack about what’s in it, why it matters, and how it fits into your grub game. At Grub Gab, we’re all about keepin’ it real, so let’s dive into this sausage saga with a big ol’ fork and knife.

What’s the Deal with Them Calories?

Let’s break it down real simple. If you’re countin’ calories like a hawk or just curious about what you’re munchin’, knowin’ the numbers is key For one link of Costco’s Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken Apple Sausage, you’re lookin’ at 160 calories Now, I’ve heard some folks toss around numbers like 170 or even 210 dependin’ on the size or how they slice it, but based on the latest scoop I’ve got, 160 is the magic number for a standard link, weighin’ in at about 3.5 ounces. That’s a solid benchmark for most of us grabbin’ a quick bite.

But calories ain’t just a number, right? It’s about what makes up them calories. Here’s the lowdown on the macronutrient split for one link:

• Carbs: 8% (that’s super low, barely a blip on the radar)
• Fat: 57% (yep, over half, so it’s rich and flavorful)
• Protein: 35% (a hefty chunk, makin’ it a muscle-buildin’ buddy)

So, if you’re watchin’ carbs, this sausage is kinda your jam. But with fat takin’ up a big slice of the pie, it’s got that indulgent vibe goin’ on. Me? I love that balance—enough protein to keep me full, not too many carbs to weigh me down Let’s dig deeper into the nitty-gritty of what’s inside

Nutritional Breakdown: More Than Just a Number

Alright, let’s get into the meat of it—pun totally intended! Beyond them 160 calories, this chicken apple sausage from Costco has a bunch of other stuff worth knowin’. I’ve put together a quick table to lay it all out, ‘cause who don’t love a good visual?

Note: Them percentages are based on a 2,000-calorie diet, so your needs might be a lil’ different dependin’ on how much you eat or burn.

Lookin’ at this a couple things jump out at me. First the protein—14 grams per link! That’s a heckuva lot for somethin’ so small. It’s like a mini power-up for your muscles. Then there’s the sodium, sittin’ pretty high at 770mg, which is over 30% of your daily limit. If you’re watchin’ your blood pressure like my uncle Joe, you might wanna pace yourself on these bad boys. The fat ain’t shy neither, with 10 grams, but it’s what gives it that juicy, satisfying bite.

Carbs, though? Practically non-existent at just 3 grams. If you’re doin’ keto or low-carb, this could be your go-to snack. And a smidge of sugar—2 grams—prob’ly from them apples mixed in, givin’ it that sweet twist I can’t get enough of.

Why Should You Care ‘Bout These Numbers?

Now, you might be thinkin’, “Why all this fuss over a sausage?” Well, lemme tell ya, knowin’ what you’re eatin’ can make or break your day, ‘specially if you’re tryin’ to stay fit or just not overdo it at the BBQ. Here’s why them stats matter to me and prob’ly should to you too:

• Protein Power: With 14 grams, it’s a solid way to hit your protein goals. Great for post-workout or just keepin’ hunger at bay.
• Fat Factor: At 10 grams, it’s a bit hefty. Fine for flavor, but if you’re cuttin’ back on fat, maybe don’t scarf down three links in one sittin’ like I did once (oops!).
• Sodium Sneak: That 770mg is a big ol’ chunk. Too much salt can mess with your heart health, so if you’re on a low-sodium kick, pair it with somethin’ fresh and light.
• Low Carb Win: Only 3 grams of carbs means it won’t spike your blood sugar. I’ve got pals who swear by low-carb diets, and they’d be all over this.

Me, I ain’t perfect with my eatin’ habits, but I like knowin’ what I’m puttin’ in my body. This sausage is a treat that packs a punch without too much guilt—long as I don’t go overboard.

Is This Sausage a Healthy Choice or Nah?

Let’s chat real quick ‘bout whether this Chicken Apple Sausage is a health hero or a sneaky villain. I ain’t no dietitian, but I’ve picked up a thing or two over the years messin’ around in my kitchen. Here’s the pros and cons as I see ‘em:

The Good Stuff

• Protein Packed: Like I said, 14 grams per link is awesome for buildin’ muscle or just feelin’ full longer.
• Low Sugar and Carbs: With just 2 grams of sugar and 3 grams of carbs, it’s a safe bet for folks dodgin’ sweets or carby traps.
• Some Nutrients: It’s got a bit of iron and calcium, which ain’t huge but still helps with stuff like energy and bones.
• Taste for Days: That apple flavor mixed with chicken? It’s a weird but yummy combo that keeps me comin’ back.

The Not-So-Good Stuff

• Sodium Overload: At 770mg, it’s a salty sucker. If you’ve got high blood pressure or just tryin’ to cut back, this might not be your everyday pick.
• Fat Content: 10 grams of fat, with 3 of ‘em saturated, ain’t terrible, but it adds up if you’re eatin’ a bunch.
• Not for Everyone: If you’re on super strict diets like paleo, you might wanna check the ingredients. I’ve heard there’s a lil’ sugar and stuff in there that don’t always jive with every plan.

So, is it healthy? Kinda depends on you. For me, it’s a solid occasional pick—great protein, tasty as heck, but I gotta watch that sodium. I usually balance it with a big ol’ pile of greens or somethin’ low-salt on the side.

How’s It Made? What’s In This Thing?

I ain’t got the exact recipe card from Chef Bruce himself, but I can tell ya what generally goes into this kinda sausage. It’s mostly chicken—skinless, I reckon, to keep it a bit leaner. Then there’s dried apples or apple bits givin’ it that sweet zing. There’s usually water, some kinda apple juice for extra flavor, and a mix of spices, salt, and other seasonin’s to tie it all together. Oh, and it’s often cased in natural pork casin’, which might matter if you’re avoidin’ pork for whatever reason.

Good news for some of my buds with dietary quirks—it’s often gluten-free, so if you’re dodgin’ wheat, you’re prob’ly safe. But always peek at the package just in case, ‘cause I ain’t takin’ no chances with allergies.

Burnin’ Off Them Calories: How Long Ya Gotta Move?

Alright, let’s say you’ve scarfed down a link or two and now you’re feelin’ a tad guilty. How long’s it gonna take to burn off them 160 calories? Here’s a rough idea based on what I’ve figured out for an average person—say, a 35-year-old gal, ‘bout 5’7”, weighin’ around 144 pounds:

• Swimmin’: ‘Bout 13 minutes of splashin’ around.
• Joggin’: Roughly 18 minutes of hittin’ the pavement.
• Cyclin’: Around 24 minutes pedalin’ along.
• Walkin’: A leisurely 45 minutes or so.

Now, I ain’t sayin’ you gotta run a marathon after every bite, but it’s kinda cool to know, right? I usually just take my dog for an extra long walk if I’ve overdone it on snacks like these sausages. Keeps us both happy!

Cookin’ Up a Storm with Chicken Apple Sausage

One thing I freakin’ love ‘bout this sausage is how easy it is to cook. You don’t need no fancy chef skills to make it taste amazin’. Here’s a few ways I’ve whipped it up:

• Grillin’: Toss it on the grill for a few minutes each side ‘til it’s got them nice char marks. The apple flavor pops even more with that smoky vibe.
• Pan-Fryin’: Heat up a skillet with a lil’ oil, cook on medium for ‘bout 10-12 minutes, turnin’ it now and then. Easy-peasy.
• Oven-Bakin’: Preheat to 400°F, pop ‘em on a bakin’ sheet, and let ‘em roast for 15-20 minutes ‘til they hit 165°F inside. Perfect if you’re doin’ a big batch.
• Slicin’ for Dishes: Cut ‘em up and toss into soups, stews, or pasta for a sweet-savory kick.

Last weekend, I threw some sliced sausage into a pot of veggie soup, and lemme tell ya, it was a game-changer. That hint of apple with carrots and broth? Pure magic.

Recipe Ideas to Mix It Up

Wanna get creative with these links? I’ve got a few ideas that’ll make your taste buds dance. Here’s some quick recipes I’ve tinkered with:

1. Chicken Apple Sausage Skillet Breakfast

• Grab 2 links, slice ‘em up.
• Toss in a pan with diced taters, bell peppers, and onions.
• Cook ‘til everythin’s golden and crispy, ‘bout 15 minutes.
• Crack a couple eggs on top if you’re feelin’ fancy.
• Boom—breakfast for champs!

2. Sweet ‘n’ Savory Salad

• Grill or pan-fry a link, then slice it thin.
• Mix with a big pile of greens, some sliced apples (keepin’ the theme goin’), and a handful of walnuts.
• Drizzle with a light honey mustard dressin’. Trust me, it’s weirdly awesome.

3. Sausage ‘n’ Pasta Toss

• Cook up some pasta—penne or whatever you got.
• Sauté sliced sausage with garlic and spinach.
• Mix it all together with a lil’ olive oil and parm cheese. Dinner in under 20 minutes!

I ain’t claimin’ to be no gourmet, but these ideas always hit the spot when I’m cravin’ somethin’ quick yet tasty.

Where Can Ya Snag These Sausages?

If you’re itchin’ to try ‘em yourself, head over to your local Costco. They’ve usually got these Chef Bruce Aidells Chicken Apple Sausages in the meat section, often in big packs ‘cause, ya know, Costco loves bulk. You can also check online at their website if you’re more of a click-and-ship kinda person. I always stock up when I’m there ‘cause they freeze real nice—just pop ‘em in an airtight bag or container, and they’ll last months.

Pairin’ It Right: What Goes with Chicken Apple Sausage?

The sweet apple twist in this sausage makes pairin’ it a blast. Here’s what I’ve found works like a charm:

• Veggies: Roasted brussels sprouts or carrots bring out the sweetness.
• Grains: Quinoa or wild rice for a hearty side.
• Fruits: Sliced apples or pears on the side—double down on that apple vibe!
• Bread: A crusty roll or bun if you’re makin’ a sandwich outta it.

I once paired it with some maple-glazed sweet taters, and it was like autumn exploded on my plate. Try it, I dare ya!

Final Thoughts: Worth the Calorie Count?

So, back to them 160 calories per link—are they worth it? For me at Grub Gab, heck yeah, most of the time. This sausage ain’t just food; it’s a flavor adventure with a decent protein punch. Sure, the sodium and fat mean I can’t eat a whole pack in one go (though I’ve been tempted), but as part of a balanced meal, it’s a winner. Whether you’re grillin’ for a crowd or just need a quick bite, knowin’ what you’re gettin’ into calorie-wise helps ya make smart choices.

Got any wild ways you’ve cooked up this sausage? Or maybe you’re wonderin’ how it fits into your diet plan? Drop a comment below—I’m all ears! Let’s keep this food convo rollin’, ‘cause at the end of the day, eatin’ good is what it’s all about. Catch ya later, fam!