Where to Buy the Best Deep Fried Turkey for Your Holiday Meal

Deep fried turkey has become a highlight of many holiday meals. The crispy, juicy meat with a hint of cajun seasoning is a favorite among turkey lovers. But properly deep frying a whole turkey at home can be dangerous and messy. That’s why more people are opting to buy pre-made deep fried turkey from stores and restaurants.

In this article, we will explore the best places to buy deep fried turkey based on convenience price quality and other factors.

Online Retailers Offer Nationwide Shipping

Several online companies have perfected the process of flash-frying turkey with cajun spices and safely packing/shipping the finished birds nationwide Here are some of the most popular online options for deep fried turkey

• Cajun Fried Turkey – Our top pick for fresh (never frozen) fried turkeys shipped overnight across the US. They offer juicy 12-16 lb turkeys fried in peanut oil that just need a quick reheat.

• Uncle Ray’s – This brand sells smaller frozen cajun fried turkey breasts and full turkeys. Their mail order turkeys ship in 2-3 days with free shipping on orders over $149.

• Cracker Barrel – The restaurant chain offers both cajun and lemon pepper fried turkey breast roasts via their online store. They ship within 2 days.

• FriedTurkeyCompany.com – Specializes in 5-7 lb deep fried turkey breasts in cajun and other flavors sold fresh or frozen. Overnight shipping available.

• Goldbelly – Not the cheapest option but they ship fried turkeys from famous local restaurants nationwide. Unique flavors.

Grocery Store Deli Sections

Many major grocery store chains now offer ready-to-heat fried turkeys seasoned with cajun spices for quick pickup:

• Publix – Delis sell fully cooked fried turkeys marinated in zesty cajun flavorings. Call ahead to reserve one for your gathering.

• Hy-Vee – Select stores carry fried turkey breast fillets and boneless breasts rubbed with creole seasonings.

• Wegmans – Delis stock cajun fried turkey breast roulades and seasoned turkey fillets during the holidays.

• Stop & Shop – Some locations provide fried turkey breasts and fillets marinated in tangy cajun sauces by preorder.

• Kroger – Several Kroger delis offer creole seasoned fried turkey breast rolls while supplies last.

Warehouse Clubs Offer Bulk Savings

For budget-minded shoppers, bulk retailers like Costco and Sam’s Club sell decent quality fried turkeys at lower prices:

• Costco – Carries 7-10 lb rotisserie turkey breast roasts with a bold cajun kick for under $40. Great value.

• Sam’s Club – Sells gigantic fully cooked fried turkeys injected with zesty cajun marinades. Open to members only.

• BJ’s Wholesale Club – Offers boneless fried turkey breasts coated in crunchy cajun breadcrumbs. Best to order 1-2 days ahead.

Local Grocers and Butchers

Your local independent grocer or butcher may be willing to prepare a fresh fried turkey with homemade cajun spices upon request:

• IGA – Some IGA locations provide fried turkey breasts marinated in regional cajun flavors for the holidays.

• QFC – Certain Quality Food Center stores will take preorders for cajun fried turkey breast roulades.

• Butcher Box – Works with partner butchers to deliver juicy fried turkeys nationwide. Order by Nov. 17th.

• Dearborn Market – This popular Chicago butcher ships fried turkeys in mild or spicy cajun rubs across the US.

Fried Turkey Restaurants & Caterers

Many local restaurants and catering companies sell fully cooked deep fried turkeys for convenient pickup or delivery:

• Popeyes – The fried chicken giant offers cajun fried turkey at select spots each November. Call ahead for availability.

• The Grackle – An Austin eatery beloved for its amazing pre-order holiday fried turkeys. Worth a try.

• Backyard Bistro – A Louisiana caterer offering fried turkeys marinated in regional spices and sauces.

• Gus’s Fried Chicken – The Memphis and Nashville outposts sell juicy seasoned fried turkeys.

• Beaucoup Barbecue – A Texas BBQ joint shipping 12-14 lb applewood smoked fried turkeys nationwide.

How to Choose the Best Pre-Made Fried Turkey

When selecting a pre-made deep fried turkey, keep these tips in mind:

• Order early – Reserve your fried turkey 1-2 weeks in advance from a grocer or restaurant. Online sellers may need even more lead time.

• Check sizing – Allow 1 lb of turkey per person. A 12-14 lb turkey feeds 12-14 people. Buy smaller for just the family.

• Read reviews – Check reviews online to gauge the flavor, juiciness and service of a fried turkey seller before buying.

• Confirm availability – Some stores only sell fried turkeys during the holidays. Call ahead to verify they have stock.

• Factor in reheating – Most pre-fried turkeys just need 30-60 minutes in a 300°F oven to heat. No thawing required.

• Compare pricing – Online and restaurant turkeys cost more. Warehouse clubs offer the best value. Weigh options.

• Consider sides – Many stores offer fried turkey dinners with classic sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes, etc.

The Convenience Of Pre-Made Fried Turkey

Ordering a ready-to-eat deep fried turkey offers huge convenience for holiday hosts. You skip the dangerous deep frying process and avoid a messy kitchen. The turkeys arrive fully cooked, seasoned and ready for a quick reheating. Then you can spend time on other dishes instead of monitoring a bubbling deep fryer all day.

Follow this guide to find a high-quality pre-made deep fried turkey from a trusted local or online source. Then relax and enjoy the big event with juicy, crispy fried turkey as your star attraction. Your guests will thank you for stepping up your holiday meal game with this fan favorite!