Where to Buy Chicken Feet Near Me: Your Ultimate Guide to Finding This Culinary Gem

Hey there, fellow food explorers! Today I’m gonna dive into a topic that might make some squirm but has others rushing to the store – chicken feet! Whether you’re looking to make a nutritious bone broth, create authentic dim sum, or grab some natural treats for your furry friend, chicken feet (also called chicken paws) are surprisingly versatile.

I’ve spent hours researching where to find these underappreciated poultry parts in local stores, and I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered Let’s jump right in!

Why Chicken Feet Are Worth Seeking Out

Before we talk about where to buy them let’s quickly cover why you might want chicken feet in the first place

• Rich in collagen (about 70%!) which can help with skin health and joint pain
• Great source of protein (approximately 22g per 4oz serving)
• Low in sodium, making them a healthy food option
• Versatile in cooking – from soups and broths to dim sum and fried dishes
• Budget-friendly protein option compared to other cuts
• Popular as dog treats (as seen in many Walmart reviews)

Major Retailers That Sell Chicken Feet

1. Walmart

Walmart carries chicken feet under the name “Chicken Paws” in their meat department. These typically come in trays weighing between 1.1-1.75 lb and are priced at approximately $3.97 (about $3.28/lb).

What I’ve found at Walmart

• Chicken paws from chickens hatched, raised, and harvested in the USA
• No added hormones or steroids
• Available for both pickup and delivery in many locations
• Customer reviews mentioning they’re great for dog treats
• Fresh chicken paws with expiration dates several days out

One customer named Afra mentioned: “For a while when I ordered those for my dog they would come with the inside of the paw that they had spots… Now all of a sudden I guess finally someone realized it and the quality has changed up and it is really good now.”

2. Whole Foods Market

If you’re looking for organic options, Whole Foods Market carries organic chicken feet from Mary’s Chicken. These are typically found in their meat department.

What you’ll find at Whole Foods:

• Organic certified chicken feet
• Part of their high-quality standards selection
• Available for in-store purchase
• Prices vary by location (you’ll need to check your local store)
• Can be ordered online for pickup in many locations

3. Grocery Stores via Instacart

Instacart offers access to chicken feet from numerous retailers and brands, making it super convenient if you’re not sure where to look locally.

Brands available through Instacart include:

• Bell & Evans
• U.S. Govt. Inspected
• PICS
• Pete’s Fresh Market
• Super King
• Gelson’s
• Mary’s
• David Elliot Poultry

The feet come in various package sizes, including per pound options, 1 lb packages, and even bulk boxes (up to 22 lb boxes for serious broth makers or restaurants).

Specialty Markets That Often Carry Chicken Feet

Beyond the major retailers, I’ve had great luck finding chicken feet at:

• Asian supermarkets – often have the freshest selection and best prices
• Latino markets – sometimes labeled as “Patas de Pollo”
• Local butcher shops – may require advance ordering
• Farmers markets – especially from poultry vendors
• Health food stores – often carry them for broth-making customers

How to Shop for Quality Chicken Feet

When you’re at the store looking at chicken feet, here’s what to check for:

• Freshness: Look for clear, firm skin without discoloration
• Size: Smaller feet are often more tender
• Cleanliness: Should be free of debris (though you’ll clean them again at home)
• Color: A pale yellow to light pink is normal
• Packaging: Well-sealed with minimal liquid in the container

Preparing Chicken Feet: Quick Tips

Once you’ve found your chicken feet, here’s how to prep them:

1. Clean thoroughly – wash with water and rub with salt to remove stains
2. Blanch – boil for 3 minutes, then transfer to ice water
3. Peel – remove the yellow membranes (the skin underneath should be white)
4. Trim – cut off the tips of claws and nails
5. Cook – now they’re ready for your recipe!

Popular Ways to Use Chicken Feet

Chicken Feet Bone Broth

This is probably the most popular use in Western kitchens. Here’s a simple recipe:

1. Place 10 cleaned feet in a slow cooker and cover with water
2. Add 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon sea salt
3. Add your favorite herbs and vegetables
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer
5. Cook for 5-6 hours
6. Strain and use immediately or store (lasts 1 week refrigerated, 6 months frozen)

Dim Sum Style Chicken Feet

A classic Chinese preparation:

1. Dry the cleaned feet completely (reduces splatter when frying)
2. Deep fry until golden brown (about 7 minutes)
3. Braise in aromatic ingredients like oyster sauce, star anise, garlic, and ginger
4. Make a sauce with fermented black bean chili oil, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and dark brown sugar
5. Combine and enjoy!

Dog Treats

Many Walmart reviewers mentioned buying chicken feet as treats for their dogs. If using for pets:

1. Ensure they’re completely raw or fully cooked (no in-between)
2. Remove any seasonings if using cooked feet
3. Monitor your pet when giving them chicken feet for the first time

Storage Tips for Chicken Feet

• Fresh, uncleaned: Keep refrigerated for up to 2 days
• Cleaned: Can be frozen for up to 9 months (wrap well to prevent freezer burn)
• Cooked broth: Refrigerate up to 1 week, freeze up to 6 months

FAQ About Buying Chicken Feet

Are chicken feet expensive?

Not usually! They’re typically one of the more affordable parts of the chicken. At Walmart, they’re around $3.28/lb, which is less expensive than most chicken cuts.

Why are they sometimes called “chicken paws”?

It’s just another name for the same product. Walmart uses “chicken paws” while other retailers might call them “chicken feet.”

Can I order chicken feet online?

Absolutely! Both Walmart and Whole Foods offer online ordering with pickup or delivery options. Instacart also delivers from various stores that carry chicken feet.

Are chicken feet nutritious?

Yes! They’re rich in protein, collagen, calcium, and riboflavin. They’re particularly known for their high collagen content, which can benefit skin health and joint pain.

What if I can’t find chicken feet near me?

If you’ve checked all the stores mentioned and still can’t find them, ask the meat department at your local grocery store if they can special order them for you. Many stores are willing to accommodate special requests.

My Experience Finding Chicken Feet

I’ll be honest – the first time I went looking for chicken feet, I was totally confused! I checked my local mega-mart with no luck, until I realized they were labeled as “chicken paws” in the poultry section. Then I found them at my Asian grocery store for nearly half the price!

Now I keep a bag in my freezer at all times for making broth. The difference in flavor and texture compared to regular chicken stock is amazing – it’s so much richer and more gelatinous. Plus, my wallet is happy since they’re way cheaper than chicken wings or breasts.

Conclusion

Finding chicken feet near you isn’t as hard as it might seem at first. With major retailers like Walmart and Whole Foods carrying them, plus the convenience of Instacart delivery from numerous stores, you’ve got plenty of options.

Whether you’re making nutritious bone broth, authentic Asian cuisine, or treating your four-legged friend, chicken feet are a versatile, economical, and nutritious option worth exploring.

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Note: Prices and availability may vary by location. Always check with your local store for the most current information.