Where to Buy a Delicious Deep Fried Turkey for Your Next Gathering

A deep fried turkey is a showstopping centerpiece for any special occasion from Friendsgiving to Christmas dinner. While frying a whole bird at home takes skill and special equipment, you can order a perfectly fried turkey from several retailers and food providers. Here’s where to buy a deep fried turkey that will wow your guests without the hassle and danger of frying it yourself.

Grocery Stores

Many grocery store chains sell ready-to-eat deep fried turkeys during the holidays Prices and sizes vary, but it’s often the easiest and most convenient option

• Kroger – Carries 8-12 lb pre-fried Butterball turkeys. Order 1-2 days in advance.

• Publix – Offers fried turkeys in multiple sizes from Fred’s Market kitchen. Requires 5 days notice.

• Wegmans – Sells boneless and bone-in fried turkeys from the in-store Culinary Center.

• HEB – Has frozen fried turkey options along with fresh turkeys fried on-site daily.

• Fresh Market – Features Fried Turkey Company birds that come seasoned, fried and ready to reheat.

• Costco – Stocks Kirkland Signature Spiral-Sliced Fried Turkeys around the holidays.

• Whole Foods – Allows special ordering of fried turkeys from the butcher counter at select locations.

• Albertsons – Carries ready-to-eat fried turkeys during Thanksgiving and Christmas season.

Specialty Meat Shops and Markets

Local butcher shops and meat markets are another excellent source for picking up a high quality fried bird. Many take special orders.

• HoneyBaked Ham – Offers full fried and fried breast turkeys cooked in peanut oil.

• Schatzi’s Butcher Shop – Hand fries turkeys in small batches using peanut oil.

• Chop Shop Butchers – Provides seasoned, fried turkeys cooked to order around the holidays.

• Central Market – Has experienced butchers who fry turkeys daily in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Mail Order Companies

Nationwide companies ship ready-to-eat fried turkeys packed in insulated containers with reheating instructions.

• Cajun Grocer – Specializes in turkeys fried Cajun-style with bold seasoning. Offers free shipping.

• FriedTurkeyCompany.com – Ships 10-16 lb fully cooked fried turkeys overnight.

• Cajun Turkey Company – Sells seasoned fried turkeys shipped frozen with reheating directions.

• Broadway Basics – Features 8-15 lb fried turkeys packed in a cooler box and shipped with free ice packs.

• FriedTurkey.com – Provides seasoned, fried turkeys shipped nationwide from a Texas company.

Local Caterers and Restaurants

Many catering companies and restaurants offer fried turkeys for pre-order during the holidays. Prices and availability vary.

• Publix Aprons Cooking School – Fried turkeys can be ordered and picked up hot at some locations.

• Your Pie Pizza – Select locations fry turkeys to order during Thanksgiving season.

• HoneyBaked Ham – Takes pre-orders for fried turkeys at participating stores.

• Local BBQ joints – Some smokehouses and BBQ restaurants fry turkeys for pickup around the holidays.

Online Ordering Sites

National chains like Walmart, Target and Sam’s Club sell ready-to-eat fried turkeys on their websites. Prime shipping gets it to your door fast.

• Walmart – Carries Butterball fried whole turkeys and turkey breast online.

• Target – Lists pre-fried, spiral-cut turkeys from brands like Jennie-O, Butterball and Shady Brook Farms for in-store pickup or shipping.

• Sam’s Club – Offers members frozen fried turkey breasts and seasoned fried birds for delivery.

DIY Frying

If you have the equipment, expertise and courage, frying at home yields the freshest results. Safety is paramount.

• Use a specialty turkey fryer kit with propane tank, thermometer and lifting equipment.

• Fry outside only on a solid, level surface away from structures.

• Monitor oil temperature carefully. Thaw turkey fully before frying.

• Take precautions against oil spills and burns – wear safety gear.

Choosing Your Fried Bird

When ordering a pre-fried turkey, look for:

• Reputable supplier with safe frying practices

• Peanut oil for optimal flavor

• 8-15 lb turkey to serve 4-10 people

• Packaging that keeps the turkey hot until serving

• Complete reheating instructions

Fried Turkey Perks

Opting for a ready-fried turkey offers many advantages:

• Avoids safety risks of frying whole birds at home

• Provides juicy, evenly fried meat with crispy skin

• Saves time – no thawing, seasoning, monitoring

• Makes cleanup easy with no oil spill dangers

• Lets you focus on side dishes and hosting

Serving Your Fried Turkey

To serve your inviting golden bird:

• Thaw if needed and bring to room temperature before reheating

• Reheat fully to 165°F following provided instructions

• Let rest 10-15 minutes before carving for juiciness

• Serve with traditional sides and sauces

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours

Pick up a perfectly fried turkey from a trusted source, then relax and enjoy time with your guests without slaving in the kitchen or worrying about frying hazards. A deep fried turkey is a delicious showstopper sure to become a new holiday tradition.