The best kitchen shears for chicken are the OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears. They combine sharp, sturdy blades that easily cut through bone with a comfortable, non-slip handle and a built-in herb stripper. Their micro-serrated edge grips slippery poultry skin, and the blades come apart for thorough cleaning, a must for raw chicken.
For cutting through chicken bones and joints, prioritize shears with strong, sharp blades and a comfortable grip. The best overall pick balances performance, safety, and easy cleaning. Our top choices range from a budget-friendly option to a heavy-duty model for frequent use.
- Best overall: OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears
- Best value: Cuixinart CTG-00-SCH Stainless Steel Shears
- Best budget: KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Shears
- Avoid: Cheap generic shears with riveted blades that cannot be separated for cleaning
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Quick Picks
- Best overall: OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears, Sharp micro-serrated blades, comfortable handles, and easy disassembly for cleaning.. Check price on Amazon
- Best value: Cuisinart CTG-00-SCH Stainless Steel Shears, Stainless steel blades with a strong spring action and a built-in bottle opener..
- Best budget: KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Shears, Affordable, sharp, and includes a micro-serrated edge for gripping..
Comparison Table
| Product | Blade Material | Best for | Dishwasher Safe | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips | Stainless steel with micro-serrated edge | All-around performance | Yes (blades separate) | Check Price |
| Cuisinart CTG-00-SCH | Stainless steel | Heavy-duty cutting | Yes (blades separate) | Check Price |
| KitchenAid Classic | Stainless steel | Budget-friendly | Yes (blades separate) | Check Price |
| Shun Classic | High-carbon stainless steel | Professional use | Yes (blades separate) | Check Price |
How We Chose These Knives Picks
We evaluated shears based on blade sharpness, handle comfort, safety lock, ease of cleaning, and owner feedback from thousands of reviews. We prioritized models that can be taken apart for thorough cleaning, as this is critical when cutting raw chicken. We also considered durability of the pivot joint and resistance to rust.
Key Takeaway: For most home cooks, the OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears offer the best combination of sharpness, comfort, and hygiene. If you need a heavy-duty pair for frequent use, the Cuisinart model is a strong value. The KitchenAid shears are a solid budget pick that still performs well.
Best Overall: OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears
Best for: Home cooks who want a versatile, comfortable, and easy-to-clean shear for cutting chicken and other kitchen tasks. Why it made the list: The OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears feature micro-serrated stainless steel blades that grip chicken skin and cut through bones cleanly. The handles are soft, non-slip, and designed for both right and left-handed use. A convenient locking mechanism keeps them closed when stored, and the blades separate for thorough cleaning in the dishwasher. Owners consistently report they stay sharp for years and handle everything from chicken to packaging.
- Key specs: Stainless steel blades with micro-serrated edge; soft, non-slip handles; locking latch; blades separate for cleaning; dishwasher safe.
- What we like: Sharp, durable blades that cut through bone easily; comfortable grip; easy to clean; built-in herb stripper and bottle opener.
- What we do not like: Some users find the spring action a bit stiff initially; the locking latch can be tricky to engage at first.
- Who should buy it: Home cooks who prepare chicken regularly and want a reliable, hygienic shear.
- Who should avoid it: Professional chefs who need ultra-heavy-duty shears for breaking down multiple birds daily.
- Common complaints: Occasional reports of the plastic handle cracking after years of use; the herb stripper is not very effective.
- Size note: Length is about 8.5 inches, suitable for most hand sizes.
- Cleaning note: Separate the blades by pressing a button and wash in dishwasher; hand drying recommended to prevent water spots.
- Alternative: Shun Classic Shears: higher price but premium high-carbon steel and ergonomic design.
Kitchen Shears Buying Guide
Blade Material and Sharpness
Look for stainless steel blades with a micro-serrated or finely serrated edge. This type of blade grips slippery poultry skin and cuts through bones without slipping. High-carbon stainless steel holds an edge longer but may be more prone to rust if not dried promptly. Avoid shears with thin or stamped blades, as they may bend or dull quickly.
Handle Comfort and Safety
Choose shears with ergonomic, non-slip handles that fit your hand. Soft rubber or silicone grips reduce fatigue during multiple cuts. A locking mechanism is essential for safe storage, especially if you keep them in a drawer. Some shears have a spring-assisted open action, which can make repeated cuts easier.
Cleaning and Maintenance
For raw chicken, you must be able to thoroughly clean the shears. The best models have a button or lever that allows the blades to separate, so you can wash them in the dishwasher or by hand without crevices harboring bacteria. Fixed-rivet shears are harder to clean and should be avoided for poultry work. Look for dishwasher-safe shears to simplify sanitizing.
Safety Notes
- Always wash shears with hot soapy water immediately after cutting raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
- Use a dedicated cutting board for poultry and avoid cutting bones on hard surfaces like glass or stone to protect the blade.
- Keep shears closed and locked when not in use, and store them in a knife block or sheath to prevent accidental cuts.
- Never use shears to cut through frozen chicken bones, as this can damage the blades and cause slipping.
What to Avoid
- Shears with non-removable blades: they trap bacteria in the pivot joint and are impossible to clean properly.
- Models with hollow or plastic handles that can crack under pressure from cutting bones.
- Shears with dull blades that require excessive force, increasing the risk of slipping and injury.
- Generic unbranded shears with poor build quality: they often loosen at the pivot and cannot be tightened.
FAQ
Can I use kitchen shears to cut chicken bones?
Yes, but choose shears specifically designed for bone cutting, with strong, sharp blades and a sturdy pivot. Most good kitchen shears can handle small to medium chicken bones.
How do I clean kitchen shears after cutting raw chicken?
Separate the blades if possible, then wash them in the dishwasher or with hot soapy water. Dry thoroughly to prevent rust. For fixed-blade shears, use a brush to clean the pivot area.
What is the difference between kitchen shears and poultry shears?
Poultry shears typically have a heavier, curved blade and a stronger spring for cutting through bone. Kitchen shears are more versatile for general tasks. For chicken, both can work, but dedicated poultry shears may be better for heavy use.
Final Verdict
The OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears are the best choice for most home cooks, with sharp micro-serrated blades, a comfortable handle, and easy cleaning. For those on a budget, the KitchenAid Classic Multifunction Shears offer solid performance at a lower price. If you need heavy-duty shears for frequent chicken prep, the Cuisinart CTG-00-SCH provides excellent value and durability.
