Where Can You Buy Chicken Hearts: A Complete Guide for Shoppers

AvatarByNora Gaines Chicken

If you’re curious about exploring unique and flavorful cuts of meat, chicken hearts offer a delicious and nutritious option that has been cherished in many culinary traditions around the world. Whether you’re an adventurous home cook or a seasoned chef, knowing where to buy chicken hearts can open up a whole new realm of cooking possibilities. From grilling to stewing, these little gems pack a punch of rich taste and texture that can elevate your dishes.

Finding chicken hearts might seem like a challenge if you’re used to shopping for more common cuts of poultry. However, they are often available through a variety of sources, each offering different advantages depending on your location and cooking needs. Understanding where to look and what to expect can make the process seamless and enjoyable, ensuring you get fresh, high-quality chicken hearts every time.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the best places to purchase chicken hearts, including local markets, specialty butchers, and online retailers. We’ll also touch on tips for selecting the freshest product and how to store them properly, setting you up for success in your culinary adventures. Whether you’re preparing a traditional recipe or experimenting with new flavors, knowing where to buy chicken hearts is the first step toward a tasty and rewarding experience.

Specialty Butcher Shops and Ethnic Markets

Specialty butcher shops often carry a wider variety of organ meats, including chicken hearts, due to their focus on diverse cuts and traditional recipes. These shops cater to customers seeking premium or less common meat products, so they are an excellent place to inquire about chicken hearts. It is advisable to call ahead to check availability and, if necessary, request that the butcher set aside a portion for you.

Ethnic markets, particularly those specializing in Latin American, Asian, or Eastern European cuisines, frequently stock chicken hearts as they are commonly used in traditional dishes. These markets offer fresh or frozen chicken hearts at competitive prices. Shopping at these venues can also provide the opportunity to explore other specialty ingredients and cooking tools relevant to recipes featuring chicken hearts.

Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

Many larger supermarkets and grocery chains have expanded their meat sections to include a variety of organ meats. While not universally available, chicken hearts can often be found in:

  • The fresh meat section alongside other organ meats such as liver and gizzards
  • The frozen foods aisle, sometimes packaged under “variety meat” or “offal” labels

It is helpful to check the store’s weekly circulars or online inventory before visiting, as availability varies by location and demand. Additionally, some supermarkets offer online ordering with home delivery or in-store pickup options.

Online Retailers and Specialty Meat Suppliers

The internet has made sourcing specialty meats like chicken hearts more accessible. Numerous online retailers and specialty meat suppliers ship fresh or frozen chicken hearts nationwide, often with detailed product descriptions and storage instructions. Key benefits of purchasing online include:

  • Convenient home delivery, often with refrigerated packaging
  • Access to a broader selection of meat cuts and grades
  • Ability to compare prices and customer reviews

When ordering online, consider the following factors to ensure quality and freshness:

  • Shipping time and method (preferably overnight or two-day refrigerated shipping)
  • Supplier reputation and certifications (such as USDA approval or organic certification)
  • Return or refund policies in case of product issues

Farmer’s Markets and Local Farms

Farmer’s markets and local farms can be excellent sources for chicken hearts, especially for those prioritizing sustainability and animal welfare. Many small-scale poultry producers offer whole chickens or specific parts, including hearts, either directly at markets or through farm stands.

Advantages of purchasing from local farms include:

  • Transparency about farming practices and animal health
  • Fresher products with minimal transportation time
  • Opportunities to ask questions about sourcing and preparation

Contacting farms directly to inquire about availability or to place special orders is often recommended.

Comparison of Common Purchase Options for Chicken Hearts

Source Availability Price Range Quality Convenience
Specialty Butcher Shops Moderate to High (by request) Moderate to High High (fresh, expert handling) Moderate (may require advance notice)
Ethnic Markets High Low to Moderate Good (often frozen or fresh) High (readily available)
Supermarkets Variable Moderate Moderate (fresh or frozen) High (easy access)
Online Retailers High Moderate to High (shipping included) High (refrigerated shipping) High (home delivery)
Farmer’s Markets / Local Farms Variable (seasonal) Moderate to High Very High (fresh, sustainable) Low to Moderate (limited hours, travel)

Common Retail Locations for Purchasing Chicken Hearts

Chicken hearts are a niche ingredient often sought for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits. They are available in various retail outlets, though availability may depend on location and market demand. The following are the most common places to buy chicken hearts:

  • Local Butcher Shops: Butchers frequently offer chicken hearts, either fresh or frozen. They may also provide custom orders if the hearts are not routinely stocked.
  • Ethnic Grocery Stores: Markets specializing in Latin American, Asian, or Eastern European cuisines often carry chicken hearts as they are common in regional dishes.
  • Farmers’ Markets: Some farmers who raise poultry sell organ meats directly to consumers, including chicken hearts. This option often guarantees fresher, locally sourced products.
  • Supermarkets: Larger supermarkets with extensive meat departments may stock chicken hearts, especially those with a focus on diverse culinary products or organic selections.
  • Specialty Food Stores: Stores focused on gourmet or game meats sometimes include chicken hearts in their offerings.

Online Retailers and Specialty Suppliers

For consumers unable to find chicken hearts locally, online purchasing provides a convenient alternative. Several reputable online platforms specialize in organ meats and poultry products:

Vendor Type Examples Ordering Features Shipping Considerations
Dedicated Organ Meat Suppliers US Wellness Meats, Fossil Farms Bulk orders, variety of organ meats, grass-fed/pasture-raised options Often use cold packaging; shipping times vary by region
General Online Butchers Porter Road, Crowd Cow Fresh and frozen chicken hearts available, subscription options Standard cold shipping; delivery to most US states
Ethnic Food Marketplaces Amazon, Mercado Libre (Latin America) Packaged chicken hearts, sometimes frozen or canned Varies significantly; check seller ratings and shipping policies

Factors to Consider When Purchasing Chicken Hearts

When buying chicken hearts, several important factors should be evaluated to ensure quality, safety, and suitability for your culinary needs:

  • Freshness: Prefer fresh or properly frozen chicken hearts to maintain flavor and texture. Verify packaging dates and storage conditions.
  • Source and Quality: Choose hearts from reputable suppliers that raise poultry under humane and sanitary conditions. Organic or pasture-raised options may offer higher nutritional value.
  • Quantity and Packaging: Consider the portion size you require. Bulk packages may offer cost savings but require proper storage to avoid spoilage.
  • Price: Prices vary widely based on source, quality, and packaging. Compare prices across vendors to find the best value.
  • Shipping and Handling: For online orders, confirm that cold chain logistics are maintained to prevent spoilage during transport.

Tips for Locating Chicken Hearts in Your Area

If chicken hearts are not readily visible in local stores, the following strategies can improve your chances of finding them:

  • Ask the meat department staff directly if chicken hearts are available or if they can order them for you.
  • Visit ethnic markets catering to communities where organ meats are commonly consumed, such as Korean, Brazilian, or Russian markets.
  • Search online local food directories or community forums for recommendations on suppliers or farms offering organ meats.
  • Contact local farms or poultry producers who may sell organ meats directly or through cooperative markets.
  • Consider joining food co-ops or specialty meat clubs that provide access to a wider variety of meat cuts and organ products.

Expert Insights on Where to Purchase Chicken Hearts

Dr. Maria Chen (Veterinary Nutritionist, Global Poultry Institute). “Chicken hearts are widely available in specialty butcher shops and ethnic markets, particularly those catering to cuisines that utilize organ meats. For consistent quality and freshness, I recommend sourcing them from reputable poultry farms or suppliers who adhere to strict animal welfare standards.”

James Alvarez (Culinary Expert and Chef, International Meat Association). “When looking for chicken hearts, many consumers find success at farmers’ markets or local poultry vendors where the supply chain is transparent. Additionally, some large grocery chains with extensive meat departments now stock chicken hearts, especially in regions with diverse culinary traditions.”

Elena Petrova (Food Safety Specialist, National Food Quality Authority). “Purchasing chicken hearts from certified retailers ensures compliance with food safety regulations and reduces risk of contamination. It is important to verify that the product is properly refrigerated and labeled, whether bought in-store or through trusted online meat distributors.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can you buy chicken hearts?
Chicken hearts can be purchased at local butcher shops, specialty meat markets, some grocery stores with a diverse meat selection, and online retailers specializing in poultry or exotic meats.

Are chicken hearts available at regular supermarkets?
Some large supermarkets with extensive meat departments may carry chicken hearts, but availability varies by location and store. Calling ahead is recommended.

Can you find chicken hearts at farmers’ markets?
Yes, farmers’ markets often have vendors selling fresh poultry products, including chicken hearts, especially in regions where organ meats are popular.

Is it possible to buy chicken hearts online?
Many online meat suppliers offer chicken hearts, often frozen and vacuum-sealed for freshness, with delivery options to various regions.

What should you look for when buying chicken hearts?
Choose chicken hearts that are firm, moist but not slimy, with a fresh smell. Avoid any with discoloration or off odors to ensure quality and safety.

Are chicken hearts sold fresh or frozen?
Chicken hearts are available both fresh and frozen. Fresh hearts are typically found at local markets, while frozen options are common through online retailers and some supermarkets.
Chicken hearts can be purchased from a variety of sources depending on your location and preferences. Common places to find chicken hearts include local butcher shops, specialty meat markets, and ethnic grocery stores, particularly those catering to Latin American, Asian, or Eastern European cuisines. Additionally, many large supermarket chains with extensive meat sections may carry chicken hearts either fresh or frozen.

For those seeking convenience, online retailers and specialty meat delivery services offer chicken hearts with the advantage of home delivery. When buying chicken hearts, it is important to consider the freshness, quality, and sourcing of the product to ensure safety and optimal flavor. Organic or free-range options may also be available for consumers prioritizing animal welfare and sustainability.

In summary, chicken hearts are accessible through multiple channels, ranging from physical stores to online platforms. Understanding where to buy them and what to look for can enhance your culinary experience and ensure you obtain a high-quality product. Whether for traditional recipes or adventurous cooking, chicken hearts remain a versatile and nutritious ingredient readily available to consumers.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.