Where to Purchase a Fried Turkey for Your Next Celebration

Fried turkey has become a beloved tradition for many families’ holiday celebrations. The crispy skin juicy meat and bold cajun flavors make fried turkey a can’t-miss main course. But properly deep frying a whole turkey at home can be dangerous and messy. That’s why purchasing a pre-made fried turkey from a restaurant, grocery store, or online retailer is a convenient option. This article will overview the best places to buy a ready-made fried turkey depending on your needs and budget.

Online Retailers Offering Fried Turkeys

One of the easiest ways to buy a fried turkey is through an online retailer that ships it directly to your door Here are some of the top national companies selling pre-fried turkeys

• Cajun Fried Turkey – This company only sells fresh, never frozen cajun-style fried turkeys. Their turkeys range from 12-16 lbs and are shipped overnight across the continental US. Their turkeys consistently earn rave reviews for juicy meat and authentic cajun flavors.

• Uncle Ray’s – Uncle Ray’s has been perfecting their fried turkey recipe for over a decade. They offer frozen fried turkeys in both mild and spicy cajun seasonings. Turkeys ship 2-3 day delivery with free shipping on orders over $149.

• Cracker Barrel – The restaurant chain’s online store sells cajun and lemon pepper fried turkeys nationwide. The turkeys arrive frozen in 2-day shipping. Cracker Barrel only sells smaller 8-10 lb turkeys.

• Goldbelly – This site lets you order signature fried turkeys from famous restaurants around the country. Options range from spicy Nashville hot to classic Creole flavors. It’s expensive but offers unique twists on fried turkey.

Grocery Stores Offering Fried Turkey

Almost every major grocery store chain now sells ready-made fried turkeys around the holidays. Here are some of the best grocery stores to buy fried turkey:

• Publix – Publix Fried Turkey is one of the most beloved grocery store options. Their turkeys are injected with zesty cajun spices and customers must order ahead to reserve one.

• Kroger – Select Kroger deli counters sell seasoned fried turkey breast fillets and roulades rubbed with creole spices when ordered 1-2 days in advance.

• Wegmans – This East Coast chain provides fried boneless turkey breasts and roulades infused with bold cajun flavoring. They offer smaller portions to feed 4-6 people.

• Stop & Shop – Around Thanksgiving and Christmas, Stop & Shop delis carry fried turkey breasts marinated in spicy creole sauces. Check ahead for availability.

• Albertsons – Some locations of this nationwide chain sell fried turkey rolls flavored with Southwestern spices and peppers. Limited seasonal availability.

Warehouse Club Bulk Pricing on Fried Turkey

For big gatherings, buying your fried turkey from a wholesale club often offers the best value. Here are top options:

• Costco – Costco sells gigantic 7-10 lb rotisserie turkey breast roasts seasoned with cajun blackening spices for under $40. It’s a bargain for feeding a crowd.

• Sam’s Club – Members can buy whole pre-cooked fried turkeys injected with zesty cajun marinades at Sam’s Club. They also sell fried turkey breast fillets.

• BJ’s Wholesale – This warehouse chain carries boneless fried turkey breasts coated in bold creole spices and seasoning. You can order 1-2 days ahead for quick pickup.

Local Butchers and Restaurants Selling Fried Turkey

Beyond the big chains, many local butchers and restaurants prepare seasoned fried turkeys. Here are some local spots to check out:

• Butcher Shops – Many local butchers offer fried turkeys, often made fresh to order in small batches. Ask your neighborhood butcher if they sell fried turkey for the holidays.

• Fried Chicken Restaurants – Chains like Popeyes, Gus’s, and J’s Chicken sell whole cajun-style fried turkeys at select locations for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

• BBQ Joints – Barbecue restaurants like Beaucoup Barbecue in Texas offer incredible hickory smoked fried turkeys for shipment or pickup.

• Catering Companies – Most catering companies can prepare a fried turkey with your choice of flavors and trimmings. Find a local caterer early to reserve your turkey.

Things to Consider When Buying a Pre-Made Fried Turkey

If you decide to purchase a fried turkey instead of frying one yourself, here are some important factors to weigh:

• Fresh vs. Frozen – Fresh fried turkeys generally taste juicier and more flavorful. But frozen pre-fried turkeys can still be delicious if reheated carefully.

• Size – Plan for about 1 pound of turkey per person. Adjust up for big eaters or if you want ample leftovers.

• Seasoning – Choose mild, medium or spicy seasoning based on your guests’ preferences. Most places offer cajun and creole flavors.

• Sides – Many restaurants sell fried turkey dinner packages with sides included. This removes work for you.

• Cost – Prices range widely from $40 for a small turkey breast to $200 for a whole cajun fried turkey dinner kit.

Enjoy the Convenience of a Ready-Made Fried Turkey

With so many excellent options available, purchasing a pre-fried turkey is the perfect hassle-free way to enjoy this mouthwatering entrée. Whether you opt for takeout from a local eatery or delivery from a mail-order purveyor, you’ll be delighted with the juicy meat, crispy skin, and bold cajun spices of fresh fried turkey without the danger and mess of frying it yourself. Give it a try this holiday season!