Kirkland chicken thighs from Costco are a popular grocery item for many shoppers. Knowing how much Kirkland chicken thighs weigh can help with meal planning and recipes. In this article, we’ll take a look at the weight of Kirkland chicken thighs and how to make the most of them.
The Weight of Kirkland Chicken Thighs
Kirkland chicken thighs are sold in packs of about 10 thighs per package. The average weight of a Kirkland chicken thigh is between 8-10 ounces. This means a pack of 10 Kirkland chicken thighs will weigh approximately 5-6 pounds total.
However, the exact weight can vary a bit from pack to pack. Factors like the size of the individual chicken thighs, amount of skin and fat left on, and normal fluctuations in weight impact the final total weight. But Kirkland chicken thigh packs are very consistent in total weight.
Kirkland Chicken Thigh Pack Sizes
Here is an overview of the common pack sizes for Kirkland chicken thighs and the average weight range for each:
| Pack Size | Average Total Weight |
|---|---|
| 10 thighs | 5-6 pounds |
| 15 thighs | 7.5-9 pounds |
| 20 thighs | 10-12 pounds |
Average Weight Per Thigh
If you need to know the estimated weight per Kirkland chicken thigh, here is a simple guideline:
- Small size thigh: 6-8 oz each
- Average size thigh: 8-10 oz each
- Large size thigh: 10-12 oz each
This gives you a rough estimate for meal planning purposes. Keep in mind there will be natural variation among individual pieces.
Buying Kirkland Chicken Thighs
Kirkland chicken thighs are exclusively sold at Costco warehouse stores. You must have an active Costco membership to shop there. However, the thighs are very affordably priced compared to other grocery stores.
Costco Price
At the time of writing, the price for fresh Kirkland chicken thighs at Costco is:
- 10 pack: $8.99
- 15 pack: $13.49
- 20 pack: $17.99
This equals around $0.90 to $1.00 per pound, an excellent value. With chicken thigh prices rising at regular grocery stores, Costco is a budget-friendly option.
Kirkland Brand Overview
Kirkland Signature is Costco’s exclusive house brand. All Kirkland products are intended to offer members quality and value. The chicken thighs consistently receive high marks for their taste and freshness.
The thighs are minimally processed with no artificial ingredients. The chicken is raised with no antibiotics or added hormones. Kirkland chicken thighs are air-chilled rather than water-chilled to maintain juiciness.
How to Cook Kirkland Chicken Thighs
The thick, meaty texture of Kirkland chicken thighs makes them versatile to cook. Here are some top tips for preparing Kirkland thighs:
Bake
Baked chicken thighs are super easy and moist. Simply season them and bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes until cooked through. The skin gets crispy in the oven.
Grill
Grilled chicken thighs cook quickly over direct medium heat. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side. Brush on your favorite barbecue sauce during the last few minutes.
Air Fry
For guilt-free crispiness, air fry Kirkland thighs! Set your air fryer to 380°F and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway. The result is less greasy than pan frying.
Slow Cook
Pop Kirkland thighs in the slow cooker with sauce or seasoning for fall-off-the-bone tender meat. Low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours does the trick.
Meal Prep
Chicken thighs are a protein-packed meal prep staple. Roast a batch of Kirkland thighs, then slice and add to salads, grain bowls, tacos, and more throughout the week.
Kirkland Chicken Thigh Recipes
Chicken thighs work great in all kinds of recipes. Here are some tasty ways to use Kirkland chicken thighs:
Easy Baked Chicken Thighs
Season Kirkland thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and garlic. Bake until cooked through and skin is crisped. Serve with rice and roasted veggies.
BBQ Chicken Thighs
Grill Kirkland thighs and glaze with your favorite barbecue sauce in the last 5 minutes. Melt mozzarella on top for yummy grilled cheese chicken.
Chicken Thigh Stir Fry
Slice cooked thighs into strips. Stir fry with sliced veggies like bell peppers and broccoli. Serve over rice for a quick dinner.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Simmer Kirkland thighs in broth with tomatoes, corn, beans, and spices. Shred chicken and add to soup. Top with tortilla strips.
Chicken Thighs in Tomato Sauce
Braise chicken thighs in a homemade or jarred tomato sauce. Toss with pasta or zucchini noodles for an easy one-pot meal.
Storing and Freezing Kirkland Chicken Thighs
Refrigerator
Fresh Kirkland chicken thighs should be used within 4-5 days of purchase for peak freshness and flavor. Store in the coldest part of the fridge.
Freezer
For longer storage, freeze Kirkland thighs. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in airtight bags. Frozen, they will keep for 9-12 months before use.
Defrosting
Defrost frozen chicken thighs in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature or try to cook while still frozen. Thaw fully before cooking for food safety.
Food Safety Tips
Always handle raw chicken carefully. Use separate cutting boards and wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after working with raw thighs. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Conclusion
Kirkland chicken thighs available at Costco offer shoppers delicious flavor and an unbeatable price. Packs weigh 5-6 pounds and contain 10 chicken thighs on average. Refrigerate for no more than 4-5 days or freeze thighs for long-term storage. Baked, grilled, or cooked in soups or stir fries, Kirkland thighs are endlessly versatile in recipes. With proper handling, they provide a healthy, affordable protein option for families.