Our Farm Meat

Pastured chicken refers to chickens raised and allowed to roam freely or in movable chicken tractors on pasture or grassy areas. These birds have the opportunity to forage for their natural diet of insects, seeds, and plants. The practice of raising chickens on pasture focuses on providing them access to fresh air, sunlight, and open grazing areas. The result? Healthier birds and more flavorful meat.

THE BENEFITS OF PASTURE-RAISED CHICKEN:

Sustainability and Environmental Impact:

• Pasture-raised chickens live off the land and give back to it.
• Foraging outdoors, they consume nutrient-dense food like insects, worms, grass, and seeds.
• Their manure, rich in nutrients, rejuvenates the soil, creating a regenerative farming cycle.

Nutritional Superiority of Pastured Chicken Meat:

• Higher in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Beneficial for heart health.
• Richer in Vitamins: Including A, D, and E.
• Lower in Saturated Fats: A healthier choice.

Humane Treatment:

• Pasture-raised chickens enjoy ample access to fresh air, sunlight, and grazing areas.
• They lead a more natural and humane lifestyle.

Economical and Versatile:

• Roasting a whole pasture-raised chicken allows you to use the entire animal.
• It’s more economical than buying individual cuts.
• Plus, you can make nutritious bone broth from the leftover bones.

Your commitment to locally raised, sustainable, and nutritious food makes a positive impact on your health, local communities, and the environment.  

At Honest Desires Farm, we extend our commitment to the well-being of all our poultry, including our meat chickens. Our dedication to providing high-quality, non-GMO feed remains unwavering. But what exactly does “non-GMO” mean for our meat chickens, and why is it crucial? 

WHAT DOES NON-GMO MEAN?

Non-GMO refers to non-genetically modified organisms. When we say the chicken feed is non-GMO, we assure you that it contains no ingredients derived from genetically engineered crops. 

Unlike conventional feed, which may contain genetically modified corn or soy, our non-GMO feed provides a more natural, unaltered diet for meat chickens.

WHY OPT FOR NON-GMO FEED?

1. Healthier Growth: Meat chickens require optimal nutrition for rapid growth and muscle development. Non-GMO feed provides essential nutrients without the genetic modifications found in some conventional feeds. It supports healthy weight gain and overall well-being.
2. Flavor and Texture: The quality of meat from our chickens' matters. Non-GMO feed, in our opinion, contributes to better-tasting, tender meat. It avoids any potential impact of genetically modified ingredients on flavor and texture.
3. Ethical Farming: By choosing non-GMO feed, we uphold ethical farming practices. We avoid controversial genetic modifications and prioritize the natural health of our birds.
4. Environmental Stewardship: Supporting non-GMO agriculture reduces the demand for genetically modified crops. It’s a small step toward a more sustainable food system.

Join us in supporting healthier, happier meat chickens—one non-GMO meal at a time! 

Spatchcocking (also known as butterflying) is a fantastic way to cook a whole chicken. It involves removing the backbone and flattening the bird for even cooking.  We love this method because it is quick, juicy, and open to a variety of seasonings. 

Prepare the Chicken:

• Ensure your pasture-raised chicken is fully thawed.
• Drain it and pat it dry.

Spatchcock the Chicken:

• Lay the chicken breast-side down on a working surface or roasting pan.
• Use kitchen shears to cut along both sides of the spine and remove it.
• Flip the chicken over (breast side up) and firmly press down on the breastbone to crack it. This helps the chicken lay flat.

Season and Roast:

• Season the chicken with your favorite herbs, spices, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Roast the spatchcocked chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F.
• Calculate approximately 20 minutes per pound of chicken weight.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—when the breast or thigh meat reaches 165°F, it’s ready.
• The juices should run clear, and the meat around the ankle will start to pull back from the bone.

Enjoy!

• Serve your juicy, flavorful pasture-raised chicken with roasted potatoes and carrots from the same pan.
• The whole meal is sustainable, nutritious, and absolutely delicious!