Home Chef

Home Chef has carved out a distinct position in the crowded meal kit market by emphasizing flexibility and convenience without sacrificing quality. Founded in Chicago in 2013 and acquired by Kroger in 2018, the company benefits from grocery retail expertise while maintaining its meal kit focus.

Company History

Home Chef was founded in 2013 in Chicago, entering the meal kit market alongside competitors like Blue Apron and HelloFresh. The company grew steadily by focusing on approachable recipes and customization options. In 2018, Kroger acquired Home Chef for $700 million, gaining direct-to-consumer meal kit capabilities while Home Chef gained Kroger’s supply chain and retail distribution expertise. Today, Home Chef delivers to 98% of the US and offers in-store kits at Kroger locations.

Products & Services

Home Chef offers diverse meal formats within a single subscription:

• Standard Cook Meals: Traditional meal kits with 25-45 minute preparation
• 15-Minute Meals: Quick recipes using pre-prepped ingredients
• Oven-Ready Meals: Tray meals requiring minimal prep, just bake and serve
• Grill-Ready: Marinated proteins ready for outdoor cooking
• Culinary Collection: Premium recipes with elevated techniques

Plans serve 2, 4, or 6 people with 2-6 meals per week. Weekly menu features 30+ options across Fresh & Easy, Calorie-Conscious, Carb-Conscious, and Vegetarian categories.

What Sets Them Apart

Home Chef’s key differentiator is customization. Unlike competitors where you’re stuck with prescribed ingredients, Home Chef lets you swap proteins (chicken to steak, add shrimp), upgrade ingredients, and double portions on most meals. This flexibility addresses a common meal kit complaint, feeling locked into someone else’s menu decisions.

The variety of meal formats also distinguishes Home Chef. Oven-ready meals that require almost no prep, 15-minute quick meals, and grill-ready proteins serve different weeknight needs within a single subscription. Combined with the A+ BBB rating and Kroger backing, Home Chef offers reliable customization in a category often criticized for rigidity.