Why Chicken Backs Are a Budget-Friendly & Flavorful Meat Cut
Chicken back recipes might just be your new kitchen secret, especially if you’re looking for a delicious, affordable, and versatile cut of meat. Although they are often overlooked in favor of chicken breasts, thighs, or wings, chicken backs, nevertheless, offer a deep, rich flavor. This makes them perfect not only for soups and stews but also for roasts and even grilled dishes.
Moreover, chicken backs are incredibly cost-effective—often priced much lower than other cuts. Not only that, but they are also packed with essential nutrients, including collagen, protein, and vital minerals. As a result, they are an excellent choice for making bone broth, slow-cooked meals, and even crispy roasted dishes.
In this post, you’ll discover mouthwatering chicken back recipes that are not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful and perfect for home cooks of all levels. Whether you’re craving savory roasted chicken backs, comforting slow-cooked soups, or smoky BBQ-style grilled chicken backs, we’ve got you covered.
Before we dive into the recipes, however, let’s first explore why this underrated cut deserves a place in your kitchen. We’ll also discuss how much chicken backs cost per pound and the best cooking techniques to maximize their delicious flavor.
Like chicken backs, chicken necks are another underrated cut packed with flavor. Check out our 5 Delicious Chicken Neck Recipes You Need to Try Today for more creative meal ideas!
What Are Chicken Backs? A Budget-Friendly Cut Explained
Chicken backs are one of the most underrated poultry cuts, often overlooked in favor of more popular parts like chicken breasts, thighs, and drumsticks. However, this affordable meat cut offers rich flavor, high nutritional value, and incredible versatility in cooking.
Looking for more ways to reduce food waste and get the most out of your ingredients? Check out these expert tips:
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What Exactly Is a Chicken Back?
A chicken back refers to the portion of the bird that remains after the breasts, wings, and thighs have been removed. It contains some meat, skin, fat, and bones, making it perfect for slow-cooked dishes, broths, and crispy roasts.
How Chicken Backs Compare to Other Cuts
| Chicken Cut | Meat Content | Best Uses | Price Per Pound (Approx.) |
| Chicken Breast | High (lean meat) | Grilling, Baking, Stir-fry | $3.99 – $6.99 |
| Chicken Thighs | High (juicier) | Roasting, Frying, BBQ | $1.99 – $4.99 |
| Chicken Wings | Moderate | Frying, Baking, Air-frying | $3.49 – $5.99 |
| Chicken Backs | Lower (but flavorful) | Broths, Stews, Roasting | $0.99 – $2.50 |
👉 Why are chicken backs cheaper?
Since chicken backs contain more bone than meat, they are less in demand compared to boneless cuts. However, they are still rich in nutrients, ideal for making homemade stock, and great for budget-friendly meal prep.
Chicken Back Recipes & Price Per Pound – How Much Do They Cost?
One of the biggest advantages of chicken backs is their low cost per pound, making them a top choice for budget-conscious shoppers. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a flavorful cut to enhance soups and stews, understanding chicken backs cost per lb can help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Average Chicken Backs Cost Per lb in the USA
The chicken backs cost per lb varies based on several factors, including location, store type, and whether the chicken is conventionally raised or organic. Below is a general price breakdown:
- Conventional chicken backs cost per lb: $0.99 – $1.50
- Organic/free-range chicken backs cost per lb: $1.50 – $2.50
- Bulk purchases at Costco, Sam’s Club (frozen packs): As low as $0.75 per lb
👉 Why Do Chicken Backs Cost Less Per Pound?
Compared to chicken breasts, thighs, and drumsticks, chicken backs cost per lb is significantly lower because they contain more bone than meat. However, this bone-to-meat ratio makes them ideal for broth, slow-cooked meals, and deep flavors in soups and stews.
Where to Buy Chicken Backs at the Best Price Per Pound?
Finding the best chicken backs cost per lb requires knowing where to shop. Here are some of the best places to buy them:
🛒 Grocery Stores & Supermarkets
- Walmart – Offers some of the cheapest chicken backs cost per lb, typically around $0.99 – $1.50 per lb.
- Kroger, Publix, Safeway – Prices may vary, but they often have deals on bulk purchases.
- Costco & Sam’s Club – Ideal for buying in large quantities, bringing the chicken backs cost per lb down to $0.75 – $1.25 per lb.
🥩 Local Butcher Shops & Meat Markets
- Many butchers sell chicken backs at a lower cost per lb when you buy in bulk or request fresh cuts.
- Some butchers may even give away chicken backs for free when purchasing whole chickens.
🌿 Farmers’ Markets & Organic Stores
- Expect to pay a slightly higher chicken backs cost per lb at organic and pasture-raised meat vendors.
- These options are great for those who prioritize quality over price.
🛍️ Online Retailers & Specialty Meat Shops
- Websites like ButcherBox, US Wellness Meats, and Crowd Cow sell chicken backs for those who prefer home delivery.
- Prices depend on the retailer, but you can expect organic chicken backs cost per lb to be between $2.00 – $2.50.
Chicken Back Recipes & Nutrition – Are They Healthy?
When it comes to affordable and nutrient-dense meat cuts, chicken backs stand out as a great source of protein, collagen, and essential minerals. While often overlooked, they offer numerous health benefits and are especially valued in bone broth, soups, and slow-cooked recipes.
Nutritional Breakdown of Chicken Backs
Chicken backs provide a balance of protein, healthy fats, and key minerals that contribute to joint health, skin elasticity, and bone strength. Below is a general nutritional profile per 100g (3.5 oz) of chicken backs (without skin):
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal | Provides energy for daily activities |
| Protein | 18g | Supports muscle growth & repair |
| Fat | 14g | Healthy fats for brain & hormone function |
| Collagen | High | Improves skin, hair, nails, & joint health |
| Calcium | 15% DV | Strengthens bones & teeth |
| Phosphorus | 12% DV | Supports cell growth & energy production |
| Iron | 5% DV | Helps oxygen transport in the body |
💡 Why Are Chicken Backs a Nutritional Powerhouse?
- Collagen-Rich: Chicken backs contain a high amount of collagen, which supports joint health, improves skin elasticity, and strengthens connective tissues.
- High in Essential Minerals: Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium found in chicken backs play a crucial role in bone health and metabolism.
- Perfect for Keto & Low-Carb Diets: With their high protein and fat content, chicken backs are a great option for ketogenic and low-carb meal plans.
Are Chicken Back Recipes Good for Bone Broth and Soup?
If you’re looking for the perfect cut for homemade bone broth or soup, then bone broth chicken back recipes are undoubtedly one of the best choices. Not only are they incredibly affordable, but they are also packed with essential nutrients. In particular, their high collagen and gelatin content help create a rich, deeply flavorful, and nutrient-dense broth that enhances both taste and health benefits.
Moreover, collagen is known to support joint health, improve skin elasticity, and even aid digestion. For this reason, chicken backs are often a go-to ingredient for slow-cooked broths, hearty soups, and comforting stews. By simmering them for hours, you allow the bones to release their nutrients fully, resulting in a broth that is not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing.
Why Use Chicken Backs for Bone Broth & Soup?
- High in Collagen & Gelatin – These components help improve gut health, reduce joint pain, and support skin elasticity.
- Deep, Rich Flavor – The bones, marrow, and cartilage release umami-packed nutrients when slow-cooked.
- Affordable & Accessible – Compared to buying expensive cuts for broth, chicken backs cost less per pound while offering the same benefits.
How to Make Chicken Back Bone Broth (Step-by-Step)
Chicken Back Bone Broth
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken backs
- 10 cups filtered water
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar helps extract minerals from bones
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves smashed
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: Fresh herbs thyme, parsley
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken Backs – Rinse and pat dry the chicken backs. If desired, roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes to enhance flavor.
- 2️⃣ Add Ingredients to a Slow Cooker or Large Pot – Place chicken backs, vegetables, and spices in a pot or slow cooker.
- 3️⃣ Pour in Water & Vinegar – Add filtered water and apple cider vinegar, letting it sit for 30 minutes before heating (this helps extract minerals).
- 4️⃣ Simmer for 12-24 Hours – Bring to a gentle simmer, skimming off any impurities that rise to the top.
- 5️⃣ Strain & Store – Once done, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding solids. Store in jars and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for 3 months.
Notes
5 Chicken Back Recipes You Need to Try
Looking for ways to enjoy the flavorful, budget-friendly chicken backs in your kitchen? Here are 5 irresistible chicken back recipes that showcase just how versatile this affordable cut can be. From comforting soups to crispy fried delights, there’s something for everyone!
Each recipe provides prep time, cook time, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to help you create these delicious meals with ease. Whether you’re cooking with a slow cooker, oven, or grill, you’ll enjoy every flavorful bite.
If you love trying new chicken cuts, don’t miss our guide on 5 Delicious Chicken Neck Recipes You Need to Try Today for even more flavorful and budget-friendly meal ideas!
Roasted Chicken Backs with Garlic & Herbs
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken backs
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2️⃣ Place the chicken backs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 3️⃣ In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- 4️⃣ Rub the garlic-herb mixture all over the chicken backs.
- 5️⃣ Roast for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is golden and crispy.
- 6️⃣ Serve hot with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Slow Cooker Chicken Back Soup for Cold Days
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken backs
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots sliced
- 3 celery stalks chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Place all ingredients into a slow cooker.
- 2️⃣ Add the chicken broth, bay leaves, and seasonings.
- 3️⃣ Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the chicken backs are tender and falling apart.
- 4️⃣ Remove the chicken, shred the meat off the bones, and return it to the soup.
- 5️⃣ Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Crispy Fried Chicken Backs with Spicy Marinade
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken backs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- 1️⃣ In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, and garlic powder.
- 2️⃣ Add the chicken backs and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- 3️⃣ In another bowl, mix flour, salt, and black pepper.
- 4️⃣ Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- 5️⃣ Dredge the marinated chicken backs in the flour mixture, then fry until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side.
BBQ Chicken Backs for Summer Grilling
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken backs
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- 2️⃣ Season the chicken backs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- 3️⃣ Grill the chicken backs for about 30 minutes, turning every 5 minutes.
- 4️⃣ Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce during
Asian-Style Chicken Back Broth with Ginger & Soy Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken backs
- 1- inch piece of ginger sliced
- 3 cloves garlic smashed
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 cups water
- 2 green onions chopped
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Place chicken backs in a large pot with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and water.
- 2️⃣ Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 2 hours, skimming off impurities as needed.
- 3️⃣ Strain the broth and discard the solids.
- 4️⃣ Serve the broth hot, garnished with green onions and a dash of sesame oil.
FAQs About Chicken Backs
Chicken backs refer to the back section of the chicken, which includes the spine and rib bones.Home cooks often favor popular cuts like wings or thighs, leaving chicken backs overlooked. However, this budget-friendly cut is packed with flavor and nutritional benefits. You can use them for broth, stews, and soup or roast them for a crispy finish.
When you buy chicken backs, you’re getting a rich and flavorful base for a variety of dishes. Not only is the meat on chicken backs often lean, but it’s also packed with collagen and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. For this reason, most people use chicken backs to make bone broth, soups, or stocks, since they can extract both nutrients and flavor from the bones while still enjoying the rich, savory taste of the meat.
Yes, chicken backs can be very healthy, especially when used to make bone broth. The collagen content supports joint health, while the bones release minerals like calcium and phosphorus during cooking. Additionally, chicken backs are a lean source of protein, making them a good option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without breaking the bank.
The best way to cook chicken backs depends on your preference and the dish you’re making. If you’re looking for a quick and easy chicken backs recipes, roasting them in the oven with some garlic and herbs is a great option. For a comforting meal, slow cooking chicken backs in a broth or making chicken back soup works beautifully. If you enjoy crispy dishes, frying or grilling them can bring out their savory flavor, making them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Wrapping Up: Why chicken backs recipes Are a Must-Try Affordable Cut
In conclusion, chicken backs are a fantastic, affordable meat cut that offers numerous benefits. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or aiming to incorporate more collagen and minerals into your diet, chicken back recipes are a versatile and healthy choice. From making chicken back recipes for bone broth to crafting mouthwatering soups, roasting, or even frying them for a crispy, savory treat – the possibilities are endless!
With their low price per pound, chicken back recipes are perfect for meal prepping, creating family meals, or simply enjoying a hearty dish on a budget. Plus, by adding more chicken back recipes to your kitchen, you’re not only saving money but also creating nutritious, flavorful meals that everyone will love.
If you’re looking for even more ways to cook budget-friendly chicken cuts, don’t forget to explore our 5 Delicious Chicken Neck Recipes You Need to Try Today for additional tasty inspiration!