I’ve Been Shopping at Costco for 12 Years — This Is the Frozen Dinner Shortcut I’m Buying All Spring

Danielle Deavens
·3 min read
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<span>Credit: Heather McClees</span> <span class="copyright">Credit: Heather McClees</span>
Credit: Heather McClees Credit: Heather McClees

One of my favorite things to do when I visit my parents’ house is raid their fridge and freezer to whip up lunch for them. It’s fun, uses odds and ends, and introduces me to some unexpected gems. This is how I came across Bibigo Chicken & Cilantro Mini Wontons. They come fully cooked, so a quick pan-sear warms them and adds a delicious crunch.

The first time I made these, I served them on top of a chopped salad tossed in a soy-forward dressing I threw together with a smattering of hearty veggies. It was a big hit with my family. In that moment, the wontons won me over — and now they’ve got a permanent spot on my Costco must-buy list.

Costco mini wontons.
Credit: Danielle Deavens Credit: Danielle Deavens

What’s So Great About Bibigo Chicken & Cilantro Mini Wontons?

My absolute favorite thing about these wontons is that they’re bite-sized. The recommended serving is eight wontons, and their size makes them versatile. Whether you want an easy appetizer or a hearty lunch, you can throw these in the mix and be satisfied. They have a delicious umami flavor that is complemented by the freshness of the cilantro, all wrapped in a slightly salty, starchy wonton.

I also love that they’re fully cooked. When you’re trying to make something quick and tasty, it can be frustrating to open the freezer and see you’ve only got raw proteins to work with. That’s why I keep a bag of these on hand (and why they’re a winner in The Kitchn Grocery Essentials). Even if I’m just looking for a crunchy, savory addition to my Girl Dinner, these are ready in minutes.

Costco salad and wonton.
Credit: Danielle Deavens Credit: Danielle Deavens

What’s the Best Way to Use Bibigo Chicken & Cilantro Mini Wontons?

My go-to method for serving these is with a big salad. I like a mix of greens — ideally one substantial (like cabbage) and one soft (like romaine). The wontons also pair well with a slaw made from tricolor cabbage, shredded carrots, and scallions.

When adding to a salad or serving as an appetizer, I pan-sear the wontons in a bit of oil, then add a couple of tablespoons of water and put on a lid to make sure the insides are warmed through. My finishing touch is about a tablespoon of soy sauce and a tiny drizzle of sesame oil, then I turn off the heat and add the lid again until I’m ready to serve.

Another easy, filling option is to add them to a soup. Just bring your favorite base to a boil (I love the Trader Joe’s miso ginger broth) and add the frozen wontons. From there you can get creative: Throw in green onion, bok choy, or even ramen, soba, or rice noodles for a more filling meal. You’ll have a bowl full of comfort food in minutes. 

Buy: Bibigo Chicken & Cilantro Mini Wontons, $11.82 for 3 pounds at Costco

What Costco dinner finds are you buying on repeat this spring? Tell us in the comments below.