Looking for easy chicken neck recipes that are quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly? Chicken necks are a hidden gem in the kitchen because they are packed with rich flavor and are perfect for creating delicious meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will guide you step by step. As a result, you’ll easily be able to transform this underrated ingredient into something truly special.
In this post, we’ll share 5 simple and tasty chicken neck recipes, from smoky grilled necks to crispy fried snacks.You’ll also find helpful tips on how to clean and cook chicken necks like a pro, making them a go-to ingredient for everything from quick weeknight dinners to flavorful weekend BBQs. So, let’s dive in and explore why chicken necks truly deserve a spot in your kitchen!
Why Try Easy Chicken Neck Recipes?
Chicken necks might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a meal. However, they are a versatile, budget-friendly, and flavorful ingredient that truly deserves a spot in your kitchen. Not only are they affordable, but they also add rich taste to a variety of dishes. If you’re new to cooking with chicken necks, then you’ll be excited to discover just how easy and delicious they can be. So, here’s why you should definitely give these simple chicken neck recipes a try!
Benefits of Chicken Necks
- Affordable and Budget-Friendly: Chicken necks are one of the most economical cuts of meat, making them perfect for budget-friendly meals.Whether you’re feeding a family or simply trying to save on groceries, chicken necks are an incredibly cost-effective way to prepare delicious dishes. Not only are they affordable, but they also bring rich flavor to your meals without breaking the bank.
- Rich in Flavor: Don’t let their size fool you—chicken necks are packed with flavor! They’re perfect for adding depth to broths, stews, and soups, or for grilling and frying as a tasty snack or main dish. Their rich, savory taste makes them a favorite in many cuisines around the world.
- Versatile and Adaptable: One of the best things about chicken necks is their versatility. They can be used in a variety of cuisines, from Southern-style fried chicken necks to Asian-inspired braised dishes.Whether you’re grilling, frying, braising, or slow-cooking, chicken necks effortlessly adapt to various cooking methods and flavors. As a result, they offer endless possibilities for creating delicious and satisfying meals.
- High in Collagen: Chicken necks are packed with collagen, which not only enhances the richness and depth of dishes but also provides valuable health benefits. In fact, collagen supports healthy skin, strong joints, and good gut health, making chicken necks a highly nutritious addition to your diet.
👉 Want to learn more about the nutritional value of chicken necks? Check out our in-depth guide: Chicken Necks for Nutrition.
Addressing Common Concerns
If you’re wondering how to get started with chicken necks, don’t worry—they’re easy to prepare! Here’s a quick tip:
How to Clean Chicken Necks: Simply rinse them under cold water and remove any excess fat or feathers. Once cleaned, they’re ready to be marinated, seasoned, and cooked to perfection.
Chicken Necks Cost Per lb: How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
The chicken necks cost per lb varies depending on the seller, location, and whether they are fresh or frozen. On average, chicken necks cost per lb between $3.50 and $8.00, but prices can be as low as $0.19 per lb when bought in bulk. Some grocery store packages may range from $4.00 to $13.75 per package, making it essential to compare sources before purchasing.
Where to Buy Chicken Necks at the Best Price?
If you’re looking for the best chicken necks cost per lb, consider shopping at butcher shops, Asian markets, or wholesale suppliers. Many farms and online distributors sell frozen chicken necks in bulk, which helps reduce the price significantly. Buying in larger quantities often lowers the chicken necks cost per lb, making it a budget-friendly choice for meal prepping.
Why Does the Chicken Necks Cost Per lb Vary So Much?
Several factors influence the chicken necks cost per lb, including:
- Supply and demand – Prices fluctuate depending on availability and seasonal changes.
- Packaging and processing – Pre-cleaned and packaged chicken necks tend to have a higher cost per lb.
- Retail vs. bulk purchases – Grocery store prices are usually higher per pound compared to wholesale or direct farm purchases.
If you want to get the best deal on chicken necks cost per lb, buying in bulk from trusted suppliers is the most cost-effective option!
5 Easy Chicken Neck Recipes
1: Smoky BBQ Grilled Chicken Necks
Smoky BBQ Grilled Chicken Necks
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken necks
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Clean the chicken necks and pat them dry.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken necks evenly.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the necks for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Notes
2: Crispy Spicy Southern Fried Chicken Necks
Crispy Spicy Southern Fried Chicken Necks
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken necks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Clean the chicken necks and pat them dry.
- Soak them in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight) for extra tenderness.
- In a bowl, combine flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the chicken necks from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge them in the flour mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet. Fry in batches for 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with ranch dressing or spicy mayo.
Notes
3: Asian-Style Braised Chicken Necks
Asian-Style Braised Chicken Necks
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken necks
- ¼ cup soy sauce low sodium
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1- inch ginger sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder optional
- Green onions & sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken necks.
- In a pot, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and broth.
- (Optional) Sear the chicken necks in oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side to enhance the flavor.
- Add the braising sauce, bring to a boil, then simmer on low for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in sesame oil, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve over rice.
Notes
4: Hearty Chicken Neck Stew
Hearty Chicken Neck Stew
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken necks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 potatoes diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf optional
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika optional
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken necks.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Brown the chicken necks for 3-4 minutes for a richer flavor.
- Pour in broth, add potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer uncovered for 45-60 minutes until the chicken is tender and the broth is flavorful.
- Take out the bay leaf, season to taste, and serve warm.
Notes
5: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Necks
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Necks
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken necks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder optional
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp cornstarch optional, for extra crispiness
- ½ tsp baking powder optional, for a light crunch
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken necks thoroughly.
- Toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
- (Optional) Add cornstarch and baking powder for an even crispier texture.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with oil.
- Arrange chicken necks in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Let rest for a minute before serving. Enjoy with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or spicy mayo.
Notes
Looking for even more delicious ways to cook chicken necks? Check out this additional chicken neck recipe for more inspiration and tasty ideas. Whether you’re craving something spicy, savory, or unique, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy this versatile ingredient!
Additional Tips and Variations
Tips for Success easy chicken neck recipes
To ensure your chicken neck recipes turn out perfectly every time, follow these expert-approved tips:
Clean Chicken Necks Properly
- Rinse the chicken necks under cold running water to remove any bone fragments.
- Soak them in salted water or a vinegar solution for 10-15 minutes to eliminate any impurities.
- Pat them completely dry before marinating or cooking to help achieve the best texture.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
- For the best taste, let the chicken necks marinate for at least 2 hours or, ideally, overnight.
- Acid-based marinades (lemon juice, vinegar, or yogurt) help tenderize the meat and enhance absorption of flavors.
Achieve Perfect Crispiness
- When frying, use high-smoke-point oils like peanut oil, avocado oil, or canola oil to prevent burning.
- For air frying, add cornstarch or baking powder to the seasoning for an extra crispy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer—this ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Control the Cooking Time
- Overcooking can make chicken necks dry—follow recommended times carefully.
- Simmering or braising? Cook low and slow for fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
- Frying or air frying? Cook at high temperatures for a crispy, golden crust.
To ensure your chicken neck recipes turn out perfectly every time, it’s important to follow a few key tips. First, always clean the chicken necks thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess fat or feathers. Second, don’t rush the cooking process—whether you’re grilling, braising, or frying, allowing the flavors to develop over time will result in a more delicious meal. Finally, marinate your chicken necks for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavor and tenderness.
Storage & Reheating Best Practices
- Store leftover chicken necks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For freezing, place them in a ziplock bag with the air removed. They stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Learn how to properly store and freeze chicken necks to keep them fresh for future recipes, ensuring you always have this versatile ingredient on hand! How to Store and Freeze Chicken Necks for Future Recipes
- Reheat in an air fryer (350°F for 5 minutes) or an oven (375°F for 8-10 minutes) to maintain crispiness.
Creative Ways to Serve Chicken Neck Recipes
Pairing Chicken Necks with the Perfect Sides
Chicken necks are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can take center stage in any meal, but they also shine when paired with the right side dishes. Here are some creative ways to complement the flavors and textures of your chicken neck recipes:
Southern-Inspired Pairing:
If you’re making crispy, fried chicken necks, why not serve them with classic Southern sides? Pair your fried chicken necks with a tangy, creamy coleslaw to balance the richness of the meat, and add a touch of cornbread for a comforting, slightly sweet contrast. A few pickles or hot sauce on the side can also enhance the flavor with a bit of acidity and heat, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Asian-Inspired Pairing:
For a more exotic twist, pair braised chicken necks with steamed rice to soak up the flavorful broth. A side of sautéed vegetables, such as bok choy, mushrooms, and carrots, will add color and texture to your plate. The soft and tender chicken necks paired with crispy, sautéed vegetables create a beautiful contrast, while the rice helps bring it all together as a hearty meal. Don’t forget to drizzle with a bit of sesame oil or garnish with fresh cilantro to elevate the flavors even further.
Mediterranean-Inspired Pairing:
Consider pairing your grilled chicken necks with a Mediterranean twist. Serve them alongside a Greek salad filled with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a fresh and vibrant contrast. Add a side of warm pita bread or a rich hummus to dip the chicken necks in. The earthy flavors of the chicken necks will blend beautifully with the refreshing and tangy salad, making for a delightful meal.
Light and Fresh Pairing:
For a lighter option, serve your crispy air fryer chicken necks with a side of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers. The air-fried chicken necks are crispy and flavorful, while the roasted vegetables bring out a natural sweetness and depth. Add a simple lemon vinaigrette on the side for an extra burst of freshness and tang.
By experimenting with these different pairings, you’ll discover endless ways to serve chicken necks in creative, flavorful, and unique meals. Let your imagination guide you as you combine different sides to create a well-balanced and exciting dish each time!
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up or don’t have chicken necks on hand? Try these delicious variations using the same cooking techniques and flavors:
🔥 Swap Chicken Necks for Other Cuts
- Chicken Wings: Perfect for frying or air frying—achieves the same crispy, flavorful result.
- Drumsticks or Thighs: Ideal for braising and stewing, as they stay juicy and tender.
- Turkey Necks: A meatier alternative that works well in stews, braises, and soups.
🌶 Customize the Seasoning
- Spicy Lovers: Add extra cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce to turn up the heat.
- Asian Twist: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and five-spice powder for an umami-packed variation.
- Southern-Style: Incorporate buttermilk, paprika, and black pepper for authentic fried chicken flavors.
🧑🍳 Diet-Friendly Modifications
- Keto-Friendly: Replace flour with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for frying.
- Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for breading or thickeners in stews.
- Low-Calorie: Opt for air frying instead of deep frying and reduce oil usage.
FAQs About chicken neck recipes
To cook chicken necks in a frying pan, first, heat oil over medium-high heat. Next, season the necks generously, then sear them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. After that, lower the heat, cover the pan, and let them cook for another 10-15 minutes, making sure to stir occasionally for even cooking. Additionally, for extra crispiness, you can lightly coat the necks with cornstarch before frying. Finally, if you want to enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a splash of broth or sauce.
Yes! Chicken necks are perfect for slow cooking. The low and slow method makes them tender and flavorful.
Chicken neck is healthy, packed with collagen, protein, and minerals like calcium and iron. They’re low in fat and calories, making them a great lean protein. Try air frying or simmering them in broth for a nutritious, balanced meal
Discover the Hidden Gem of Cooking: Chicken Necks!
These easy chicken neck recipes demonstrate just how simple ingredients can come together to create unforgettable meals that are both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re grilling, frying, or braising, chicken necks offer incredible versatility and flavor, making them a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Beyond their affordability, they are packed with nutrients and can be used in a wide range of dishes, from savory broths to crispy snacks. As you explore these easy chicken neck recipes, you’ll discover how this humble ingredient can transform everyday meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Have you tried cooking with chicken necks before? What’s your favorite way to prepare them? We’d love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments below!
And don’t forget to subscribe to My Nourish Recipes for more easy and exciting recipes, as well as unique ideas that will inspire your cooking adventures.
2 thoughts on “5 Delicious Chicken Neck Recipes You Need to Try Today”