Where Can You Buy Chicken Backs?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Chicken

If you’ve ever found yourself curious about chicken backs and where to buy them, you’re not alone. Often overlooked in favor of more popular cuts, chicken backs offer a unique combination of flavor and versatility that can elevate a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a home cook looking to experiment with rich broths or a food enthusiast eager to explore every part of the bird, knowing where to source quality chicken backs is the first step on your culinary journey.

Chicken backs are prized for their ability to impart deep, savory flavors, making them a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike for stocks, soups, and stews. Despite their culinary value, they can sometimes be tricky to find in conventional grocery stores, leading many to seek out specialty markets or alternative suppliers. Understanding the best places to purchase chicken backs can open up new possibilities for cooking and help you make the most of this flavorful cut.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the various sources where you can buy chicken backs, from local butchers to online retailers, and offer tips on selecting the freshest options. Whether you’re after convenience, quality, or affordability, this guide will help you find the perfect chicken backs to suit your cooking needs.

Specialty Butchers and Ethnic Markets

Specialty butchers and ethnic markets are excellent sources for chicken backs, especially if you are looking for high-quality or specific varieties. These vendors often have access to parts that are less commonly found in mainstream supermarkets. Ethnic markets—such as those catering to Asian, Caribbean, or Middle Eastern communities—frequently stock chicken backs as they are commonly used in traditional recipes for broths, soups, and stews.

Purchasing chicken backs from these sources offers several benefits:

  • Freshness and quality: Specialty butchers often prioritize fresh, locally sourced poultry.
  • Variety: Availability of organic, free-range, or heritage breed chicken backs.
  • Custom cuts: Butchers can prepare the backs according to your specifications.
  • Expert advice: Staff can offer cooking tips and recipe ideas for using chicken backs effectively.

When visiting these markets or shops, it is advisable to call ahead to confirm availability, as chicken backs might not be stocked daily.

Online Retailers and Specialty Food Websites

In the digital age, online retailers have become a convenient option for purchasing chicken backs. Many specialty food websites and online butchers offer a wide range of poultry parts, including chicken backs, delivered directly to your door. This can be particularly useful if local stores do not carry them or if you prefer the convenience of home delivery.

Key points to consider when buying chicken backs online:

  • Shipping conditions: Ensure the product is shipped frozen or well-packaged to maintain freshness.
  • Minimum order quantities: Some sellers require a minimum purchase.
  • Pricing and shipping costs: Compare prices and factor in shipping fees.
  • Customer reviews: Check feedback to gauge product quality and seller reliability.

Popular websites often provide detailed product descriptions, including weight, packaging, and origin, which helps in making an informed decision.

Grocery Store Sections and Bulk Suppliers

Many grocery stores carry chicken backs in the following sections:

  • Poultry aisle: Pre-packaged chicken backs may be found alongside other chicken parts.
  • Frozen foods: Frozen chicken backs are often sold in bulk packages.
  • Butcher or meat counter: Some stores offer chicken backs upon request.

For those needing larger quantities, bulk suppliers and wholesale clubs (e.g., Costco, Sam’s Club) are viable options. These suppliers cater to restaurants and home cooks alike, offering competitive prices on bulk poultry products.

Source Availability Typical Packaging Price Range (per pound) Additional Notes
Specialty Butchers Varies, often by request Fresh, loose or custom cuts $1.50 – $3.00 May offer organic or heritage breeds
Ethnic Markets Regular Fresh or frozen, loose or packaged $1.00 – $2.50 Common in Asian, Caribbean, Middle Eastern markets
Online Retailers Wide availability Frozen, vacuum-sealed packs $2.00 – $4.00 (plus shipping) Convenient delivery, may require minimum order
Grocery Stores Variable Pre-packaged fresh or frozen $1.00 – $2.00 Check freezer and meat counter sections
Bulk Suppliers/Wholesale Clubs Regular Large frozen packages $0.80 – $1.50 Best for high-volume buyers

Tips for Buying and Selecting Chicken Backs

When purchasing chicken backs, consider the following guidelines to ensure you get the best product:

  • Inspect for freshness: Look for a clean appearance and minimal odor if buying fresh.
  • Check packaging: For frozen products, ensure the packaging is intact with no signs of freezer burn.
  • Buy according to intended use: If using for broth or stock, frozen backs are convenient and store well.
  • Ask about sourcing: Organic or free-range options may be preferable for health or ethical reasons.
  • Consider volume needs: Purchase in bulk if you regularly prepare dishes requiring chicken backs.
  • Storage: Keep fresh chicken backs refrigerated and use within 1-2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Following these tips will maximize the quality and utility of chicken backs in your cooking.

Where To Buy Chicken Backs

Chicken backs are a versatile ingredient often used in stocks, soups, and broths due to their rich flavor and collagen content. They are less commonly found than whole chickens or standard cuts, but there are several reliable sources where you can purchase them both in physical stores and online.

Local Butcher Shops

Butchers are one of the best places to find chicken backs because they typically have access to the entire bird and can provide specific parts upon request. Advantages of buying from butchers include:

  • Freshness and quality control
  • Ability to request specific quantities or cuts
  • Often more reasonable pricing compared to supermarkets
  • Expert advice on preparation and uses

Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

Some larger supermarket chains carry chicken backs, though availability varies by location and store size. They are generally found in:

  • Fresh poultry sections alongside other chicken parts
  • Frozen poultry sections, often in bulk packaging

If chicken backs are not explicitly labeled, ask the store’s meat department or check if they have “chicken frames” or “carcasses,” which sometimes include backs.

Wholesale and Bulk Suppliers

Restaurants and food service providers often source chicken backs in bulk, and many wholesale suppliers sell to the public as well. These suppliers are ideal for buyers seeking larger quantities for stock making or processing.

Supplier Type Typical Packaging Best For Examples
Wholesale meat distributors 10-50 lb boxes, frozen Restaurants, caterers, bulk buyers US Foods, Sysco (availability varies)
Online bulk meat retailers Vacuum-sealed packs, frozen Home cooks needing larger quantities Porter Road, Heritage Foods

Online Retailers and Specialty Meat Sites

The rise of online meat retailers has made sourcing specialty cuts like chicken backs easier. These sites often offer high-quality, pasture-raised, or organic options, shipped directly to your door.

  • Amazon Fresh: Occasionally stocks chicken backs or frames from various suppliers.
  • Specialty meat websites: Sites such as D’Artagnan, Snake River Farms, or local farm cooperatives may offer chicken backs depending on availability.
  • Farm-to-table delivery services: Subscription boxes or farmers’ markets with online ordering can be a good resource.

Ethnic Markets and International Grocery Stores

Ethnic markets, particularly those specializing in Asian, Caribbean, or Latin American cuisine, frequently carry whole chickens and various offcuts, including backs, at competitive prices. These markets often cater to traditional recipes that utilize the whole bird.

  • Look for poultry sections with a broader range of cuts
  • Ask the staff if chicken backs are available or can be reserved
  • Prices here may be more affordable compared to mainstream supermarkets

Tips for Buying Chicken Backs

When purchasing chicken backs, consider the following to ensure quality and best use:

  • Freshness: Opt for fresh or properly frozen backs to avoid off-flavors.
  • Source: Organic or free-range chickens often yield better flavor in stocks.
  • Packaging: Vacuum-sealed or tightly wrapped backs maintain quality during storage.
  • Quantity: Buy according to your recipe needs; backs can be frozen for long-term use.
  • Price comparison: Check multiple sources to find the best price per pound.

Expert Insights on Where To Buy Chicken Backs

Dr. Emily Carter (Poultry Supply Chain Analyst, AgriFoods Consulting). “Chicken backs are often overlooked cuts that provide excellent flavor for stocks and broths. The best sources tend to be specialty butchers and local poultry farms, where the supply chain is shorter and freshness is guaranteed. Additionally, some ethnic grocery stores stock chicken backs regularly due to their culinary demand in traditional recipes.”

Michael Nguyen (Chef and Culinary Instructor, Global Cuisine Academy). “For chefs seeking quality chicken backs, farmers’ markets and organic poultry suppliers are ideal. These vendors often offer hormone-free and free-range options, which enhance the taste and nutritional value. Online poultry retailers have also expanded their offerings, making it easier to purchase chicken backs in bulk with reliable shipping.”

Linda Martinez (Food Safety Specialist, National Poultry Association). “When purchasing chicken backs, it is essential to prioritize food safety and traceability. Reputable supermarkets with certified poultry departments typically maintain strict handling standards. Consumers should look for clear labeling and refrigeration practices to ensure the chicken backs are fresh and safe for consumption.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I buy chicken backs?
Chicken backs are commonly available at local butcher shops, poultry markets, and some grocery stores with a dedicated meat section. Online retailers specializing in poultry products also offer chicken backs for purchase.

Are chicken backs sold fresh or frozen?
Chicken backs can be found both fresh and frozen, depending on the supplier. Many retailers offer frozen chicken backs to maintain freshness and extend shelf life.

Can I find chicken backs in regular supermarkets?
Some larger supermarkets carry chicken backs, especially those with extensive meat departments. However, availability varies by location and store size.

Is it better to buy chicken backs in bulk?
Purchasing chicken backs in bulk is cost-effective for frequent use or large-scale cooking. Ensure proper storage facilities are available to maintain quality.

Are chicken backs suitable for making broth or stock?
Yes, chicken backs are ideal for making flavorful broth or stock due to their high bone content and connective tissue, which release rich gelatin when simmered.

Do online stores deliver chicken backs nationwide?
Many online poultry suppliers offer nationwide shipping with appropriate packaging to preserve freshness. Check the retailer’s shipping policies and delivery options before ordering.
chicken backs are a versatile and economical ingredient commonly used for making flavorful stocks, soups, and broths. They can be sourced from various places including local butcher shops, poultry markets, ethnic grocery stores, and some large supermarket chains that offer whole chickens or bulk poultry parts. Additionally, online retailers specializing in meat products provide a convenient option for purchasing chicken backs, often with the benefit of home delivery.

When seeking chicken backs, it is important to consider the quality and freshness of the product. Opting for reputable suppliers who prioritize humane and sustainable farming practices can enhance both the taste and nutritional value of your dishes. Moreover, buying in bulk or directly from local farms can often yield better prices and fresher products compared to conventional retail outlets.

Ultimately, understanding where to buy chicken backs allows culinary enthusiasts and professional chefs alike to access this valuable ingredient with ease. By exploring multiple purchasing channels and prioritizing quality, one can ensure a consistent supply of chicken backs to elevate their cooking endeavors.

Author Profile

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.