6 Best 7 Hole Meat Grinder Plates For Chicken On a Budget

Processing a backyard flock requires tools that bridge the gap between flimsy kitchen gadgets and overpriced industrial equipment. Achieving the perfect coarse grind for chicken sausages or burgers depends entirely on the flow and texture provided by the grinding plate. Choosing a 7-hole plate ensures a chunky, professional consistency that respects the delicate nature of poultry meat without turning it into a flavorless paste.

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LEM Products Size 8 Stainless Steel 7-Hole Plate

LEM is widely recognized as the gold standard for small-scale meat processing, and this stainless steel plate lives up to that reputation. The stainless steel construction is a critical feature for the hobby farmer because it eliminates the constant worry about rust after a long day of processing. This plate fits most standard #8 electric grinders, making it a versatile addition to a modest farm kitchen.

The hole spacing on this plate is specifically designed to allow meat to flow through without excessive pressure. High pressure leads to heat, and heat is the enemy of poultry fat, which can quickly turn a good grind into a greasy mess. The precision-machined edges ensure a clean cut rather than a tear, which is vital for maintaining the structural integrity of the chicken.

This plate is the perfect investment for those who prioritize longevity and food safety over the lowest possible price point. It withstands frequent sanitizing cycles and remains sharp far longer than carbon steel alternatives. If the goal is to buy one plate that will last through years of seasonal culling, this is the one to choose.

Smokehouse Chef Size 12 Stainless 7-Hole Plate

When moving up to a #12 grinder, the volume of meat increases, and the Smokehouse Chef plate is designed to handle that extra throughput. This plate is crafted from high-quality 440C stainless steel, a material known for its incredible hardness and edge retention. For a farmer processing a dozen or more birds at a time, this durability prevents the “mush” effect that occurs when a dull plate drags against the knife.

The 7-hole configuration on a #12 plate provides a very coarse “chili-style” grind that is exceptional for chicken. It allows for a rustic texture in sausages that holds up well during smoking or grilling. The slightly larger diameter of the #12 system means the meat spends less time in the grinder head, reducing the risk of temperature spikes.

This is the heavy-duty choice for the serious hobbyist who has graduated from a light-duty kitchen unit to a dedicated meat grinder. It offers a level of professional performance that justifies the slightly higher cost compared to generic brands. If you are processing larger batches and want a plate that stays sharp through the entire weekend, this is the correct selection.

Weston Brands Size 22 Coarse 7-Hole Plate

The #22 size is where hobby farming meets high-efficiency production. Weston Brands offers this coarse plate for those who use large, high-torque grinders to process significant quantities of poultry in a single session. The massive surface area of a #22 plate allows for incredibly fast processing, which is essential when trying to keep meat at a safe, cold temperature during a summer harvest.

This plate is particularly effective for grinding dark meat and skin, which can sometimes be “stringy” and difficult for smaller grinders to handle. The wide 7-hole pattern ensures that even the tougher bits of a retired laying hen are processed into a uniform, usable product. It turns what could be a chore into a swift, satisfying task.

For the farm that processes enough meat to fill a chest freezer annually, this plate is a non-negotiable tool. It is built to withstand the torque of a 1-horsepower motor without flexing or wearing down. If you own a large-format grinder and need to maximize your time, this Weston plate is the only logical choice.

STX International Size 8 Coarse Grinder Plate

For the budget-conscious hobbyist using an STX International or similar home-use electric grinder, this 7-hole plate is a smart upgrade. It is often more affordable than the high-end stainless options while still providing the specific coarse texture needed for quality chicken. While it requires more diligent drying to prevent oxidation, the performance at this price point is hard to beat.

The STX plate is designed to work in harmony with the high-speed motors found in many popular consumer-grade grinders. It facilitates a fast exit for the meat, which helps prevent the “puree” texture often associated with cheap equipment. This plate proves that you don’t need a professional-grade budget to achieve professional-grade results in the farm kitchen.

This is the ideal “entry-level” plate for someone who is just starting to explore poultry processing. It allows for experimentation with different recipes without a significant upfront investment. If you are looking for a functional, budget-friendly way to improve your chicken burgers, this plate will serve you well.

Gideon Hand Crank Grinder Coarse 7-Hole Plate

Not every farming task requires electricity, and the Gideon Hand Crank plate is the best solution for small batches or off-grid processing. Hand-cranking meat can be labor-intensive, but a 7-hole coarse plate significantly reduces the physical effort required. The large holes allow the meat to pass through with less resistance, making it much easier on the arms during a long session.

This plate is typically made from hardened steel, providing the strength needed for manual operation where the speed of the cut is controlled by the user. It is perfect for processing a single bird for a family dinner or for those who prefer the quiet, deliberate pace of manual tools. It also serves as an excellent backup tool during power outages or for use in remote field kitchens.

Choose this plate if your processing needs are small and you value simplicity and reliability over speed. It is a fantastic tool for teaching the basics of meat processing to younger family members without the safety concerns of a high-speed motor. For a truly low-budget, sustainable setup, this manual-compatible plate is the way to go.

Turboforce Size 12 Stainless Coarse Plate

The Turboforce line is designed for those who want speed and efficiency without moving to a massive industrial unit. This #12 stainless steel plate features a 7-hole design that is optimized for high-velocity grinding. The polished finish on the plate surface reduces friction, allowing the chicken to slide through the holes with minimal resistance.

One of the standout benefits of this plate is its compatibility with a wide range of mid-sized electric grinders. It offers a bridge between the budget-tier plates and the high-end boutique options. The stainless steel construction ensures it won’t react with the acidity of any marinades or seasonings you might mix into the meat before the second grind.

This is the “workhorse” plate for a busy hobby farm that values efficiency. It strikes a perfect balance between price, durability, and performance. If you find yourself frustrated by slow grinding times on your mid-sized machine, this plate will provide the immediate improvement you need.

Why 7-Hole Plates Work Best for Coarse Chicken

Chicken meat is significantly softer and more fibrous than beef or pork, which creates unique challenges during the grinding process. A fine-hole plate often clogs with sinew or causes the meat to “smear” against the plate, destroying the texture and making the meat unappealing once cooked. A 7-hole plate provides large enough exits to maintain the integrity of the muscle fibers while still creating a uniform product.

The 7-hole configuration creates a “chunky” grind that is ideal for moisture retention. When chicken is ground too finely, it loses its juice quickly during cooking, resulting in a dry, rubbery texture. The coarse pieces produced by these plates allow for fat pockets to remain intact, which melt during cooking to keep the meat succulent and flavorful.

• Better airflow: Reduces heat buildup in the grinder head.
• Reduced smearing: Keeps the fat and protein distinct.
• Faster processing: Moves meat through the machine quickly to maintain cold temperatures.
• Versatility: Works for burgers, sausages, and rustic meat pies.

Using a coarse plate also makes it easier to spot any small bone fragments or “shot” that might have been missed during the butchering process. In a fine grind, these bits are pulverized into the meat, whereas a coarse grind allows them to be identified before they reach the table.

Choosing the Right Plate Size for Your Grinder

Selecting the wrong plate size is a common mistake that can lead to damaged equipment or wasted meat. Most meat grinders are categorized by a standard sizing system, typically ranging from #5 to #32. You must identify the size of your grinder head before purchasing a plate, as they are not interchangeable.

The easiest way to determine your size is to measure the diameter of your current plate. A #5 plate is usually around 2 inches, a #8 is 2.5 inches, a #12 is 2.75 inches, and a #22 is 3.25 inches. Always double-check these measurements against the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure a snug fit that prevents meat from leaking around the edges of the plate.

Consider the power of your motor when choosing a plate. A small #5 or #8 grinder may struggle with a very coarse 7-hole plate if the motor lacks the torque to push meat through the large openings. Conversely, a powerful #22 grinder will process meat so fast that you must be prepared to feed the machine continuously to avoid “dry running” the knife against the plate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Grinding Chicken

Safety and sanitation are the two most important factors when handling raw poultry. Chicken carries a higher risk of bacterial contamination than beef, so the process must be controlled from start to finish. Following a disciplined routine ensures that the final product is safe for your family and neighbors.

1. Keep it cold: Place the meat, the grinder head, the knife, and the plate in the freezer for 30 minutes before starting. Semi-frozen meat cuts cleanly, while warm meat smears and clogs.
2. Sanitize everything: Scrub all surfaces and tools with hot, soapy water followed by a food-safe sanitizer.
3. Prep the meat: Cut the chicken into strips or cubes that easily fit down the throat of the grinder without forcing them.
4. Feed the machine: Turn the grinder on and feed the meat at a steady pace, using the plunger rather than your fingers.
5. Monitor the temperature: If the grinder head feels warm to the touch, stop and put the parts back in the freezer to cool down.

Always grind into a bowl that is sitting inside another bowl filled with ice. This “double-bowl” method keeps the ground meat at a safe temperature even if the kitchen is warm. Never let raw ground chicken sit at room temperature for more than a few minutes during the processing stage.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips to Prevent Rust

Even stainless steel plates can suffer from pitting or “tea staining” if they are not cared for properly. After the grinding is finished, the plate should be immediately disassembled and cleaned to prevent meat juices from drying in the small crevices. Use a small bottle brush to ensure that each of the seven holes is completely clear of debris.

For carbon steel plates, the drying process is the most critical step. After washing, dry the plate thoroughly with a clean towel and then place it in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes to drive off any remaining moisture. Once dry, coat the plate in a thin layer of food-grade mineral oil or a food-grade silicone spray before storing it in a dry place.

• Avoid the dishwasher: The harsh detergents and high heat can dull the sharp edges of the plate and knife.
• Store in pairs: Keep your knife and plate sets together, as they “wear” into each other over time for a better seal.
• Check for burrs: Periodically inspect the plate for small metal burrs that can break off into your food.

If rust does appear on a carbon steel plate, it can usually be removed with a light scrubbing using a mixture of lemon juice and salt. However, prevention is much easier than a cure. A well-maintained plate will stay sharp and safe for years, providing a reliable way to process your farm-raised poultry.

Investing in the right 7-hole grinding plate transforms the way you handle poultry, moving your hobby farm toward greater self-sufficiency and higher culinary standards. By selecting the correct size and material for your specific needs, you ensure that every bird processed is treated with the respect it deserves, resulting in meat that is as high in quality as the care you put into raising it.