Prices for fresh or frozen chicken thighs in Canada surged 8.2% from May to June 2026, outpacing inflation for other staples like beef and coffee, according to Statistics Canada's consumer price index (CPI).This sharp increase has contributed to ongoing grocery inflation, with chicken thighs now costing $20.92 per kilogram in Toronto and $18 per kilogram in Vancouver.Experts attribute the spike to heightened demand for affordable proteins, as beef prices remain high.While other items like tomatoes and cucumbers saw price declines, chicken thighs remain a key driver of grocery inflation.

Michael von Massow, a food agriculture professor, notes that chicken supply is limited by the number of thighs per bird, making it difficult to meet rising demand.Meanwhile, plant-based proteins face challenges due to preparation time and changing consumer preferences.The CPI report also shows that beef prices remain elevated, with striploin costing $35.30 per kilogram, while chicken breasts—still the most expensive chicken part—averaged $14.58 per kilogram in May.Analysts suggest temporary relief from gas price drops may have softened overall inflation to 2.8% in June, but grocery costs for items like chicken thighs continue to strain households.