Rotisserie chicken has a certain charm—it’s quick, convenient, and often feels like a special treat without requiring any cooking. Many shoppers have grabbed one after a busy day, tempted by the golden-brown skin and savory aroma wafting from the store’s deli section. For budget-conscious buyers, Walmart’s rotisserie chicken, priced around $4.98 (sometimes a little more depending on location), seems like a bargain.

But while the price is appealing, many who take one home end up feeling let down. When compared to what you can get at competitors like Costco and Sam’s Club, Walmart’s offering falls short in several ways. One of the first differences you’ll notice is size. Walmart’s rotisserie chicken comes in at roughly 1 pound 13 ounces—just under two pounds. At first, that might not seem like a dealbreaker, but if you’re feeding a family or counting on leftovers, the weight matters. Costco and Sam’s Club both sell rotisserie chickens that average around three pounds, nearly double the size, for almost the exact same price. That means you’re paying the same for significantly less meat. The comparison feels even more lopsided when you realize Sam’s Club is owned by Walmart, yet their rotisserie chicken is nearly twice as large. Size is just one part of the equation—flavor is equally important.

Costco’s rotisserie chicken has developed a loyal fan base thanks to its consistently juicy texture and savory seasoning. Every bite tastes fresh and well-balanced, which is why many consider it one of the best grocery store chickens available. Sam’s Club isn’t far behind, with some shoppers even claiming it beats Costco’s version. In online discussions, one Reddit user boldly declared, “Sam’s rotisserie chickens crush Costco’s rotisserie chickens every day of the week.” Walmart’s chicken, however, gets mixed reviews. Customer feedback ranges from complaints about dryness to comments that it tastes bland or, in some cases, overwhelmingly salty.

This inconsistency means that buying Walmart’s chicken can feel like a gamble—you might get a decent one, or you might end up with an overcooked disappointment. Nutrition is another factor worth considering, particularly sodium content. A three-ounce serving of Walmart’s rotisserie chicken contains about 690 milligrams of sodium. That may not sound excessive at first glance, but multiple servings can easily push you past recommended daily limits. By comparison, Sam’s Club’s chicken has about 550 milligrams per serving, and Costco’s is lower still at around 460 milligrams.

For those trying to limit sodium, Whole Foods offers a rotisserie chicken with just 280 milligrams per quarter bird, though it comes at a higher price. Excess sodium can overpower the natural flavor of the meat, and Walmart’s version has a tendency to lean too heavily on salt for seasoning, which won’t appeal to everyone. Given these drawbacks, it’s worth looking at alternatives. Costco’s $4.99, three-pound chicken is hard to beat for both taste and value. It’s consistently moist, generously portioned, and perfectly seasoned, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Sam’s Club offers a similarly sized bird for about the same price, and in taste tests among members, it often rivals or surpasses Costco’s. Whole Foods may cost more, but for those keeping an eye on their sodium intake, it’s a healthier choice without sacrificing quality.

Even local grocery stores can be a better option—many carry larger chickens that are freshly roasted on-site, sometimes with unique seasoning blends you won’t find at big-box retailers. The reason size and flavor matter so much is that rotisserie chicken isn’t just about convenience—it’s something people actually enjoy and anticipate. A large, well-seasoned chicken that stays moist is not only satisfying in the moment but also stretches further for leftovers, making it a better overall value. Costco’s cult-like following proves that when you get both quantity and quality at a fair price, customers will keep coming back. Walmart’s rotisserie chicken, unfortunately, doesn’t measure up.

The smaller size means you get less food for your money, and the inconsistent flavor combined with high sodium content makes it a less appealing choice. While it might work in a pinch if Walmart is your closest option, those seeking the best mix of taste, portion size, and value should explore other stores. In short, the low sticker price at Walmart can be misleading—when you look at the whole picture, there are better options out there that give you more chicken, better flavor, and in some cases, a healthier meal.