Finding the Best Whole Turkey Breast: 9 Places to Shop for Premium Poultry

A whole turkey breast makes an elegant, impressive centerpiece for a holiday table or dinner party. With its combination of white and dark meat, a whole breast can feed a crowd without needing to roast a massive whole bird. But where can you find high-quality whole turkey breasts to cook? Check out these prime sources for fresh, natural, and organic options.

1. Local Butcher Shops

Start your search at local independent butcher shops. Reputable butchers often source pasture-raised and heirloom breed turkeys from small regional farms. Ask when the breasts arrived and if they brine or enhance them in-house. Custom ordering allows selecting your ideal size. With personal service you can get exactly what you want.

2. Specialty Grocers

Upscale grocers like Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, Earth Fare, and Fresh Market sell fresh whole turkey breasts in their meat departments. Check labels for things like organic, free-range, pasture-raised, and no antibiotics. Prices will be higher than conventional brands but indicate premium quality.

3. Farmers Markets

Visit local farmers markets to connect directly with poultry producers Ask questions about feed, living conditions, processing, and if they brine. Make sure the meat is USDA certified You may even find heritage breed turkeys not found elsewhere. Markets are best for small 3-5 pound breasts.

4. CSAs and Meat Shares

Some pasture-based farms offer community supported agriculture (CSA) programs for poultry and meat. Signing up for a share gets you regular deliveries of products like whole turkey breasts during harvest seasons. It supports local agriculture and provides ultra-fresh options.

5. Online Mail Order

Several companies sell high-end turkey breasts online and ship them chilled or frozen. Check minimum orders and locations served. Recommended options include Joyce Farms, Maple Meadow Farm, Heritage Foods USA, and FreshDirect. Some offer heirloom breed turkeys.

6. Direct from Farms

Research local pasture-based turkey farms that process their own birds. Many offer freezer packs and whole breasts for sale seasonally before Thanksgiving and Christmas. You can inspect facilities and ask about their practices. Expect to pay premium per-pound prices for small farm turkeys.

7. Wild Turkey Suppliers

For the adventurous, find providers of wild turkeys, usually taken during regulated hunting seasons. The lean meat has a distinct gamy flavor. Be sure the source follows ethical hunting protocols and USDA guidelines on processing.

8. Large Grocery Chains

Even mainstream grocers like Kroger, Publix, Safeway, Stop & Shop, and Wegmans often carry selections beyond the Butterball and Honeysuckle White brands. Look for small local or regional turkey farms packaged under the chain’s own branding. These “store brand” turkeys can offer good value.

9. Warehouse Clubs

Check the poultry selections at warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale. These stores sometimes carry premium turkey breast packs from better producers, though availability varies by location. Shop early, as they may sell out for the holidays.

No matter your preferences for size, flavor, feeding regimen, or certifications, the perfect whole turkey breast for your table can be found with a savvy shopping strategy. Allow plenty of lead time before the holiday meal. Freezing extra Turkey Day leftovers like meat, gravy, and stock makes enjoying premium poultry worth the splurge!