Let’s face it – sometimes you just need some ground chicken in your life! I’ve been there too many times to count, standing in the grocery store wondering where the heck they keep this stuff. If you’re asking “where can you buy ground chicken?” – you’re definitely not alone.
Ground chicken has become my go-to protein for so many reasons. It’s leaner than beef, versatile enough for everything from tacos to meatballs, and usually cheaper than other specialty meats. But finding it can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt!
In this comprehensive guide I’ll share all the places where you can buy ground chicken what to look for, and even some price comparisons to help you get the best deal. So let’s dive in!
Major Retailers That Sell Ground Chicken
Walmart
Walmart is one of the most accessible places to find ground chicken. Their meat department typically carries:
- Perdue Harvestland Fresh Ground Chicken (92% Lean/8% Fat) in a 1 lb. tray for $3.84 ($3.84/lb)
- Perdue Fresh Ground Chicken (92% Lean/8% Fat, 22g protein per 4oz serving) in a 1 lb. tray for $3.72 ($3.72/lb)
What I really like about shopping at Walmart is the convenience factor You can check availability online before heading to the store, and they even offer same-day pickup and delivery options Plus, their ground chicken products are SNAP eligible if that’s important for your shopping needs.
Target
Target also carries ground chicken in their refrigerated meat section You can find
- Tyson Ground Chicken – 16oz package for around $4-5 (prices may vary by location)
The Tyson ground chicken at Target has a 4.2-star rating out of 5 with 183 reviews, suggesting most customers are satisfied with the quality. Target also offers flexible shopping options with pickup, delivery, and shipping available. Plus, they have a generous 90-day return policy if you’re not satisfied.
Specialty Retailers: Northstar Bison
If you’re looking for something a bit more premium, Northstar Bison offers:
- Pastured, Soy-Free, Corn-Free Ground Chicken – 16oz package for $23.12
This is definitely on the higher end price-wise, but there are some unique features that might make it worth considering:
- Ground with only dark meat
- 95% Lean
- No additives, flavor enhancers, colorings or preservatives
- Pastured chicken (which typically means better animal welfare standards)
They even offer free standard shipping on orders over $250 if you’re planning a big meat stock-up.
Other Places to Find Ground Chicken
Beyond these specific retailers, you can generally find ground chicken at:
Local Grocery Stores
Most major grocery chains like Kroger, Safeway, Publix, and Albertsons carry ground chicken in their meat departments.
Butcher Shops
Local butchers often offer freshly ground chicken, and many will grind chicken for you on request if they don’t have it pre-packaged.
Farmers Markets
Many local poultry farmers sell ground chicken directly to consumers at farmers markets. This is usually a great option for finding higher-quality, locally raised options.
Online Meat Delivery Services
Companies like ButcherBox, Omaha Steaks, and FreshDirect deliver meat including ground chicken directly to your door.
Wholesale Clubs
Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale typically carry ground chicken in larger quantities at competitive prices.
What to Look For When Buying Ground Chicken
When I’m shopping for ground chicken, here are some things I always check:
1. Fat Content
Ground chicken can vary in fat content based on what parts of the chicken are used:
- Extra Lean (98% lean): Usually made from chicken breast
- Lean (93-95% lean): Often a mix of white and dark meat
- Regular (85-90% lean): Contains more dark meat and skin
2. Packaging Date
Always check the sell-by or use-by date. Ground meat has a shorter shelf life than whole cuts because the grinding process exposes more surface area to potential bacteria.
3. Color
Fresh ground chicken should be light pink. Avoid packages with gray discoloration or excessive liquid.
4. Price Point
As you can see from the examples above, prices can range dramatically:
- Budget options: $3.72-$5 per pound (Walmart, Target)
- Premium options: $23+ per pound (specialty retailers like Northstar Bison)
5. Production Methods
If animal welfare or environmental concerns are important to you, look for labels like:
- Pastured
- Free-range
- Organic
- Soy-free/Corn-free
- No antibiotics or hormones
Comparing Your Ground Chicken Options
To make it easier to compare, here’s a simple breakdown of the options we’ve discussed:
| Store | Product | Size | Price | Price per lb | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Perdue Harvestland | 1 lb | $3.84 | $3.84 | 92% Lean/8% Fat |
| Walmart | Perdue Fresh | 1 lb | $3.72 | $3.72 | 92% Lean/8% Fat, 22g protein per 4oz |
| Target | Tyson | 16 oz | $4-5 | $4-5 | Standard ground chicken |
| Northstar Bison | Pastured Ground Chicken | 16 oz | $23.12 | $23.12 | Pastured, Soy-Free, Corn-Free, 95% Lean, Dark meat only |
How to Choose Between Different Ground Chicken Options
When deciding where to buy your ground chicken, consider these factors:
Budget Considerations
If price is your main concern, Walmart’s Perdue options are hard to beat at under $4 per pound.
Quality Considerations
If you’re looking for higher quality and don’t mind paying a premium, Northstar Bison’s pastured, soy-free, corn-free option might be worth the splurge.
Convenience Factors
Consider how you prefer to shop:
- In-store pickup: Both Walmart and Target offer same-day pickup
- Delivery: All three retailers offer delivery options
- Shopping experience: Do you prefer one-stop shopping at Walmart/Target or specialty shopping at places like Northstar?
Tips for Buying Ground Chicken
After years of cooking with ground chicken, I’ve learned a few tricks:
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Buy in bulk and freeze: When you find a good sale, stock up! Ground chicken freezes well for up to 3-4 months.
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Ask the meat counter: Many grocery stores will grind chicken fresh for you if you ask – this lets you choose exactly which cuts get ground.
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Check for sales: Ground chicken frequently goes on sale, especially at the big retailers like Walmart and Target.
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Consider grinding your own: If you have a food processor or meat grinder, buying chicken thighs or breasts and grinding them yourself can save money and ensure quality.
Why Different People Choose Different Sources
Your choice of where to buy ground chicken might depend on your priorities:
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The budget-conscious shopper might prefer Walmart’s Perdue options at $3.72-$3.84 per pound.
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The convenience-focused shopper might opt for Target’s Tyson ground chicken with pickup or delivery options.
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The health/quality-focused shopper might choose Northstar Bison’s pastured, soy-free, corn-free option despite the higher price point.
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The locally-minded shopper might skip all these options in favor of a local butcher or farmers market.
FAQ About Buying Ground Chicken
Is ground chicken healthier than ground beef?
Generally yes, ground chicken is lower in calories and fat than ground beef, but the exact nutrition depends on the cuts used and fat percentage.
How long does ground chicken last in the refrigerator?
About 1-2 days. It’s best to use or freeze ground chicken promptly after purchase.
Can I substitute ground chicken for ground turkey?
Absolutely! They’re very similar in texture and flavor, though ground chicken is sometimes a bit leaner.
What if I can’t find ground chicken?
You can ask the butcher at most grocery stores to grind chicken for you, or you can grind boneless chicken at home in a food processor.
Is organic ground chicken worth the extra cost?
That depends on your priorities. Organic chicken is raised without antibiotics and fed organic feed, which some people feel justifies the higher price.
My Personal Experience
I’ve personally bought ground chicken from all kinds of places, and honestly, each has its pros and cons. Walmart is my go-to when I’m making a big batch of chicken chili and need a budget-friendly option. But when I’m making something special like chicken meatballs for company, I might splurge on the higher-quality option from a specialty store or my local butcher.
The convenience of being able to order online for pickup or delivery has been a game-changer for my busy schedule. I can place an order from Walmart or Target while at work and pick it up on my way home – no more last-minute dinner scrambles!
Conclusion
So where can you buy ground chicken? Pretty much everywhere! From budget-friendly options at Walmart and Target to premium versions at specialty retailers like Northstar Bison, you’ve got plenty of choices.
The best place to buy ground chicken ultimately depends on your personal priorities – whether that’s price, quality, convenience, or specific production methods. Don’t be afraid to try different options until you find your favorite!
Have you found another great place to buy ground chicken that I missed? Or do you have tips for selecting the best ground chicken? I’d love to hear about your experiences!
Happy cooking with your ground chicken, wherever you decide to buy it from!
00 lbs Nutrition Facts
Is anything added to the ground chicken?
Yes, vinegar and lemon juice (less than 1%) are added to the ground chicken for flavoring and to act as a natural preservative.