Stretch Your Grocery Budget: Make Multiple Meals from 1 Roasted Chicken
In today’s world of rising grocery prices, one roasted whole chicken might just be your smartest kitchen investment. Not only is it the most economical way to buy chicken, but it’s also a delicious foundation for several home-cooked meals that save time and money.
With a little planning, one Springer Mountain Farms Whole Chicken can easily become several satisfying dishes that feed your family all week long — without sacrificing quality, flavor, or freshness.
Why a Whole Chicken Is a Smart Buy
Whole chickens are by far the most budget-friendly way to purchase chicken. When you roast one, you’re unlocking the base for multiple meals — everything from comforting casseroles to quick weeknight pizzas.
Plus, you’re in control of the seasoning and portioning, so every meal feels new, even though it started with the same ingredient.
🐔 Smart Savings Tip: Springer Mountain Farms Whole Chickens are packed with premium flavor and tenderness, meaning you don’t need extra sauces or marinades to make your meals shine — saving you both time and money.
How to Roast a Whole Chicken
Roasting your own chicken is simpler than you might think! Start by removing the giblet pack (save it for homemade stock), patting the chicken dry with paper towels, and seasoning generously with salt and pepper — inside and out.
Traditional Oven Method
Cook approximately 20 minutes per pound at 350°F. This classic method creates golden, crispy skin and tender meat — perfect for Sunday dinner.
Slow Cooker Method
Place a ring of foil or a rack in the bottom of your slow cooker to keep the chicken elevated. Place the bird breast side up, cover, and cook on low for 6–8 hours. This hands-off method uses less energy than your oven and produces fall-off-the-bone results.
Instant Pot Method
Follow your manufacturer’s directions, but typically, a whole chicken takes around 30 minutes to cook. It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights when you want dinner fast.
Grill Method
Preheat your grill to 350–375°F and set up an indirect heat zone. Grill for 60–75 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The smoky flavor adds an outdoor twist your family will love.
🌿 Flavor Tip: Season simply with pantry staples like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or dried herbs — or try a citrus and herb rub for a bright, summery touch.
No matter which method you choose, make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F with an instant read thermometer.
Times may need to be adjusted due to variations in available equipment.
Meal Prep Made Easy
Once your chicken has cooled slightly, remove the meat and shred it into meal-sized portions. Store the chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for up to three months.
💡 Meal Prep Tip: Portion 2-cup servings for future recipes. That’s the perfect amount for soups, casseroles, or tacos — making weekday cooking as easy as heat and serve.
4 Budget-Friendly Meals Using Roasted Chicken
Ready to make your roasted chicken work overtime? Here are four crowd-pleasing, budget-smart dishes to create throughout the week.
1. White Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Green Chili Sauce
Turn two cups of shredded chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal. Mix the chicken with cream cheese and shredded Monterey Jack cheese, then roll it into tortillas and smother with a creamy green chili sauce. The result? A comforting dinner that tastes gourmet but costs less than takeout night.
2. Chicken Turnip Kale Casserole
A flavorful and filling dish that sneaks in extra vegetables. Shredded chicken, kale, and turnips come together with bacon and Parmigiano-Reggiano for a rich, cozy casserole that stretches your budget and keeps your family asking for seconds.
3. Chicken, Roasted Red Pepper & Spinach Cast-Iron Skillet Pizza
Skip delivery and enjoy a homemade pizza night! A cast-iron skillet gives you a perfectly crispy crust. Add shredded chicken, roasted red peppers, spinach, and mozzarella for a gourmet twist on a classic favorite — all for a fraction of the cost of takeout.
4. Chicken and Dumplings
End your week with pure comfort food. Chef Mark Phillips’ creamy chicken soup, loaded with tender vegetables and airy dumplings, transforms the last of your chicken into a bowl of cozy perfection.
Zero Waste Cooking: Make Homemade Chicken Broth
♻️ Don’t toss those bones! Use every part of your chicken by making a flavorful homemade broth. Our Instant Pot Chicken Broth recipe turns the leftover carcass into rich, golden stock that freezes beautifully and adds depth to soups, stews, and risottos.
Zero waste, maximum flavor — and one more way to stretch your grocery budget while cooking with care.
Make the Most of Every Bite
Whether you’re feeding a family on a budget, meal prepping for the week, or just looking to simplify your cooking routine, starting with a Springer Mountain Farms Whole Chicken gives you both quality and value.
Each meal begins with our American Humane Certified™ chicken — raised with care, free from antibiotics, and always superior.
Discover more ways to make the most of your chicken with our recipe collection.
Because great meals don’t have to be complicated or costly — they just have to start with Simply Superior Chicken™.
[Updated 10.17.25]
