10 Best Meal Delivery Services in Chicago in 2024

Meal delivery services offer an undeniable level of convenience right to your door, whether you’re doing your best to stick to a meal plan or simply save time in your day.

I’ve looked into the most popular services that deliver in Chicago and narrowed down the list to the top 10 picks. Whether you're looking to avoid the grocery store, prefer zero meal prep, want to stick to a diet, or wish to try different foods, meal delivery services are a great option.

My number one choice for the best meal delivery service in Chicago is Factor as it has a diverse menu with many international influences. Plus, I really liked the convenience of its fully-prepared meals that can be ready in minutes. Read on for more recommendations.

Our Best Meal Delivery Services in Chicago Reviewed

1. Factor – Best Overall Meal Delivery in Chicago

Factor offers a wide range of diet-friendly, prepared meals. These meals are designed by dietitians, ensuring balanced macronutrients. It offers a variety of American, Mediterranean, Asian, and Southeast Asian-inspired dishes. My colleague tried and reviewed Factor for himself and was quite impressed.

What’s on the Menu?

Factor's menu includes 35 weekly recipes with over 40 add-ons. The cuisine ranges from American to Mediterranean, featuring unique dishes like the Peanut Buddha Bowl. The menu also rotates some items each week, keeping options fresh and diverse.

The meal plans are flexible, catering to various diets like keto, low-calorie, and vegan. These plans act more like menu filters, allowing you to mix and match according to your taste. This flexibility makes it easy to tailor meals to your dietary preferences.

In addition to the main dishes, Factor offers a range of add-ons. These include keto-friendly desserts and protein-packed snacks. However, the options for vegan or vegetarian dieters in the add-ons section are limited.

What Makes It Special?

Factor stands out with its commitment to high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients. It uses non-GMO and mostly organic produce, ensuring your meal isn’t only tasty but also responsible. All meats are pasture-raised or grass-fed, and poultry and eggs are cage- and antibiotic-free.

Another unique aspect of Factor is its dietitian services. Before ordering, you can have a free 20-minute consultation to assess if the meals align with your fitness goals. This service is uncommon among meal delivery services, setting Factor apart.

Factor integrates its recipes into popular calorie-tracking apps. This feature helps you monitor your macronutrient and vitamin intake effortlessly. It's particularly beneficial for those on specific diets, like low-calorie or keto.

Is It Good Value?

Factor's pricing starts at $10.49  per serving for the largest order size. You can order up to 18 meals per week, including protein smoothies. This pricing makes it a cost-effective option for enjoying various high-quality, fully prepared meals.

The ordering process is straightforward, with an accessible app for both iOS and Android. The user-friendly FAQ, efficient chatbot, and 24/7 live chat support make managing your subscription hassle-free. This ease of use adds to the overall value of the service.

2. Green Chef – Best Chef-Crafted Recipes for Healthy Chicagoans

Green Chef offers certified-organic meal kits with a focus on sustainability. It provides a variety of chef-crafted menus suitable for different diet plans. Learn more in my colleague’s Green Chef review.

What’s on the Menu?

It features 8 diet plans, including Plant Based, Keto, Gluten Free, and Mediterranean. Menus are available for the next 3 weeks, aiding in meal planning. This variety caters to diverse dietary needs and preferences.

Green Chef's meals blend American cuisine with Mediterranean, Mexican, and Asian influences. Options like Pork Chops with Creamy Shallot Sauce showcase this culinary diversity. Such a mix offers a wide range of flavors for different tastes.

Recipes are easy to follow, with pre-prepared ingredients and sauces. Meal prep typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. All ingredients are pre-portioned, simplifying the cooking process and reducing food waste.

What Makes It Special?

Its meal plans are flexible, allowing for mixing and matching of different plans. You can combine Plant Based with Gluten Free options, for instance. This flexibility is great for those with specific dietary needs or preferences.

Each recipe is tagged according to its diet plan, simplifying meal selection. Green Chef also offers quick 10-minute lunches, perfect for busy schedules. These meals are convenient and cater to various dietary requirements.

It has an extensive Add-Ons section. It offers flavored oatmeals for vegetarians or vegans and extras for keto-focused, for example. This section provides additional options for enhancing your meal plan.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing starts at $9.99 per serving, a reasonable rate considering the organic ingredients. It’s more affordable than organic takeout, though slightly pricier than self-prepped meals. This price point reflects the quality and convenience it offers.

Serving sizes range from 3 meals for 2 people to 4 meals for 6 people per week. This flexibility caters to different household sizes and eating habits. It strikes a balance between cost and convenience, making it a viable option for various budgets.

3. Blue Apron – Best Wellness Meal Kits in Chicago

Blue Apron offers meal kit menus for 2 and 4 people, accommodating individuals, couples, and small families. It specializes in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, with American and Asian dishes also featured. Blue Apron's focus on variety caters to a wide range of culinary preferences.

What’s on the Menu?

The cuisine mainly draws from Mediterranean flavors, with classic American and Asian influences. This blend offers a diverse dining experience. Popular dishes include diabetes-friendly and vegetarian options, providing choices for different dietary needs.

Blue Apron's Wellness plan focuses on low-calorie recipes. These are generally under 650 calories per serving. Dishes like Crispy Prosciutto Lettuce Cups showcase the plan's focus on health without sacrificing flavor. This plan is ideal for those who are mindful of their calorie intake.

Besides its standard meal kits, it also offers Prepared & Ready fresh prepared meals each week. These meals take just 5 minutes to heat and maintain the same high quality as the meal kits. Options like Pulled Pork Rotini & Cheese cater to those needing a quick meal without compromising on quality.

What Makes It Special?

Blue Apron's app features short cooking videos, perfect for those learning kitchen skills. Recipes are designed to be easy to follow. This approach helps you enjoy restaurant-quality meals with minimal effort. Learn more in my colleague’s tested Blue Apron review.

Blue Apron's commitment to ingredient quality is evident in its sourcing. It uses humanely raised proteins and sustainably farmed produce. This focus ensures high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients in every meal.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing starts at approximately $3.74 per serving for the maximum order. This rate is competitive, considering the quality and variety of meals offered. The largest order is 5 meals of 4 servings each per week, making it a viable option for regular home cooking.

You can also order 4, 6, 8, or 10 Prepared & Ready meals every week and add additional meals to your weekly order as there’s no hard limit. If you mix and match prepared meals and meal kits, you can order 2 boxes, but you’ll have to pay 2 shipping fees of $10.99. If you want to try a couple prepared meals alongside a meal kit order, you can add them from the Add-ons menu.

4. HelloFresh – Best All-Around Home Delivery Service in Chicago

HelloFresh is the most family-friendly meal delivery service in Chicago. It offers an array of meal plans tailored to different tastes and dietary needs, including Meat & Veggies, Veggie, and Family Friendly options. Its user-friendly approach and variety make it a top choice for families.

What’s on the Menu?

HelloFresh's menu features over 100 recipes and other items each week, mainly American cuisine with Mediterranean and Mexican influences. Classic dishes and innovative creations are both on offer. This variety caters to a broad range of palates and preferences.

The Veggie plan provides meat- and seafood-free options, and the HelloCustom feature allows for protein swaps. This flexibility is great for vegetarian families or those looking to vary their protein intake. Additionally, the menu tags popular recipes for easy selection.

Recipes are designed to be prepared in around 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy households. For even quicker options, HelloFresh includes one-pot meals and an Under 20 Minutes plan. These are perfect for time-pressed evenings or when you need a meal in a hurry. Learn more about my colleague’s experience when they tested HelloFresh.

What Makes It Special?

HelloFresh simplifies meal prep with pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes. This approach reduces food waste and prep time, making it convenient for families. However, some basic kitchen tasks, like chopping and seasoning, are still required.

A unique aspect of HelloFresh is its 10-minute lunch options. These quick meals, like the 7-Layer Dip Avocado Toasts, are perfect for busy days. They offer a healthy, quick solution for lunchtime without compromising on taste.

It also boasts outstanding customer support, available 24/7 via live chat. This service is especially valuable for addressing last-minute order changes or delivery issues. Such support ensures a hassle-free experience for families using the service.

Is It Good Value?

HelloFresh's pricing is competitive, with larger orders offering lower per-serving costs. The largest order starts at a per-serving price of $3.32. This pricing structure makes it a cost-effective choice for families looking to enjoy varied, quality meals at home.

The minimum order requirement is 2 recipes for 2 people per week, scaling up to 6 recipes for 4 people. This range accommodates different family sizes and dining preferences. The price decrease with more meals ordered adds to its value for larger households.

5. Home Chef – Best Customizable Plan for Any Palate

Home Chef offers the best meal customization options in Chicago. This makes it an ideal choice for families or those hosting dinner parties. Additionally, the option to add breakfast and dessert items allows for a comprehensive weekly menu.

What’s on the Menu?

Home Chef's menu primarily features classic American recipes. Dishes like Butter Cracker Crusted Honey Chicken are family favorites. The new Family Plan menu filters family-friendly meals, simplifying meal planning for households with kids.

For gourmet cooking enthusiasts, it offers premium meat cuts like filet mignon and sirloin steak. These protein upgrades cater to those who enjoy a more upscale dining experience at home. Plus, you can order complete meals, including sides and desserts.

In addition to main dishes, Home Chef includes a la carte breakfast and dessert options. This variety allows for a more rounded menu throughout the week. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast or a sweet treat, these additions meet various culinary needs.

What Makes It Special?

The Customize It feature sets Home Chef apart. This option allows you to substitute or double proteins in many recipes. It offers flexibility in meal customization, catering to individual taste preferences and dietary needs. Find out more in my colleague’s tested Home Chef review.

However, customizing proteins may incur an additional charge. This option provides variety, but at a cost. For those who value customization over budget, this feature enhances the dining experience.

Home Chef also provides flexibility in serving sizes. Unlike most meal delivery services, you can order different serving sizes for each recipe. This flexibility is beneficial for households with varying appetites or guest numbers.

Is It Good Value?

Prices start at $7.99 per portion, with options to order 2 to 6 recipes per week. You can cater to 2, 4, or 6 people, offering a total of 4 to 36 portions weekly. This portion range is significantly higher than most meal delivery services.

Despite its appeal, Home Chef falls short for those on specialized diets like vegan. While you can choose vegetarian recipes and customize proteins, you can’t exclude or swap other ingredients. For omnivores without dietary restrictions, it’s a good fit; for niche diets, other services might be better.

6. Fresh and Easy – Best Easy Prep Meal Kits

Fresh and Easy by Home Chef offers a convenient and quick meal solution for busy Chicagoans. Its recipes are designed for quick preparation, requiring minimal time and effort. This option is ideal for those looking to enjoy homemade meals without the lengthy prep work.

What’s on the Menu?

Fresh and Easy's menu features recipes that typically take 15 minutes or less to prepare. For instance, the Almond-Crusted Salmon with Garlic-Edamame Rice combines ease with elegance. This selection is perfect for quick yet impressive meals.

You're not limited to just Fresh and Easy options. You can also choose from over 20 recipes per week from Home Chef's main menu. This variety allows you to blend simplicity with more intricate meals, depending on your preference and time constraints.

In addition to main dishes, Fresh and Easy offers a range of extras from Home Chef's menu. These include fully prepared meals and microwave-ready desserts like Snickerdoodle Cookies. These additions provide even more convenience and variety to your meal planning.

What Makes It Special?

Fresh and Easy distinguishes itself with its pre-portioned, chopped, and ready-to-cook recipes. This approach significantly reduces prep time and kitchen hassle. It's ideal for those who value time savings in their cooking routine.

Like Home Chef, it allows you to customize proteins in recipes. This flexibility lets you tailor meals to your dietary preferences or simply mix things up. You can swap fish for meat or vice versa, adding a personalized touch to your meals.

However, Fresh and Easy doesn’t cater to specific diet plans, like paleo or vegan. If you follow these diets, you may need to carefully review the ingredients. This aspect may limit its appeal for those with strict dietary requirements. Find out more about Fresh and Easy in our in-depth review.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing starts at $7.99 per serving, with meals individually priced. This rate is competitive, especially considering the convenience and quality of the meals. The cost-effectiveness improves as you order more meals.

The minimum and maximum orders mirror Home Chef's – 2 recipes for 2 people per week, up to 6 recipes for 6 people. This range accommodates different household sizes and meal frequencies. It balances affordability and variety, catering to various budgets and lifestyles.

7. BistroMD – Calorie-Conscious Plans Designed by Dietitians

BistroMD offers effortless weight loss meal plans designed by a Ph.D. dietitian. Its meals are tailored for individuals transitioning to a low-calorie diet, focusing on balanced nutrition and portion control. This service is especially beneficial for those seeking guided weight loss support.

What’s on the Menu?

BistroMD's meals total 1,200 or 1,400 calories per day, with each meal ranging from 350 to 500 calories. The meals are nutritionally balanced, providing a mix of proteins, complex carbs, and healthy fats. This structure supports a calorie-conscious diet effectively.

The service offers a range of meal plans, including Signature, Gluten Free, Heart Healthy, Keto Flex, Diabetic, Vegan, and Menopause. However, the Keto Flex plan does not induce ketosis, and the Diabetic and Menopause plans offer the same food selections. This variety caters to different dietary needs and preferences.

Calorie counts and nutritional information are clearly labeled on each meal. This transparency helps in tracking calorie intake and managing dietary goals.

What Makes It Special?

All meals are fully cooked, frozen, and individually portioned. This convenience simplifies meal preparation, requiring only defrosting and heating. It's an ideal service for those who struggle with meal planning while dieting.

BistroMD's personalized meal plans are developed by a team of registered dietitians. They ensure that every meal aligns with specific dietary goals. This personalization is key for individuals on a structured, calorie-conscious diet.

However, the service doesn’t allow for ingredient substitutions. Meals are part of a meticulously planned diet, making customization limited. This lack of flexibility might be a drawback for some, but it ensures strict adherence to the dietary plan. Find out about what happened when my colleague tested BistroMD.

Is It Good Value?

With options for 2 or 3 meals for 5 or 7 days per plan, you can choose up to 20 meals a week. If you opt for a full plan, you can eat what you wish for the remaining meal. This flexibility ensures you always have diet-friendly meals on hand. The service provides a practical solution for maintaining a consistent, healthy diet.

The maximum plan costs $8.24 per serving for 20 meals a week. This pricing is competitive, considering the personalized nature and convenience of the service. It's a worthwhile investment for those committed to a low-calorie diet.

8. Purple Carrot – Best for a Plant-Based Diet

Purple Carrot is the only 100% plant-based vegan meal delivery service on my list. It offers both meal kits and prepared meals, catering to a diverse range of tastes and dietary preferences. Find out more in my colleague’s tested Purple Carrot review.

What’s on the Menu?

Purple Carrot provides over 16+ meal kit recipes each week. These range from quick 5-minute breakfasts to 30-minute dinners. Despite a smaller menu than other services, it ensures fresh and varied weekly options.

The menu includes a variety of cuisines, like Mediterranean, Indian, Asian, and Middle Eastern. Meals are centered around vegetables, herbs, and spices, making them appealing even to meat-eaters looking to incorporate more plant-based options. Dishes like Pesto Melt and Grilled BBQ Cauliflower Steaks are examples of its innovative approach.

In addition to meal kits, Purple Carrot offers around 16 different prepared meals each week. These meals, including options like Palak Cauliflower with Curried Chickpeas, come in recyclable trays and are microwave-ready in just a few minutes. The service also provides snacks and pantry staples in the Plantry.

What Makes It Special?

Purple Carrot emphasizes vegetables as the main attraction rather than relying on meat substitutes. Its creative dishes, such as Hoisin Tofu Steaks with Sticky Rice, showcase innovative plant combinations. This focus differentiates it from other meal services that often lean heavily on meat alternatives.

The High Protein meals are notable, offering at least 20 grams of protein per serving. These cater specifically to plant-based eaters who need more protein in their diets. Dishes are designed to be both nutritionally balanced and flavorful.

Purple Carrot also offers the option to add breakfast or lunch kits to your order. This variety ensures that you can enjoy plant-based meals throughout the day. On busy days, these convenient options help you stick to a vegan diet without resorting to less healthy alternatives.

Is It Good Value?

Purple Carrot's pricing starts at $8.50 per serving for the maximum order, and prepared meals are priced at $13 each. While this may be considered pricey, the quality and convenience of the service justify the cost for those committed to a vegan diet.

The service lets you order meal kits for 2 or 4 people. The minimum order is 3 meal kits for 2 people, with the maximum being 3 meal kits for 4 people. On the 2-person plan, you can also order 4 meal kits. You won’t be able to order any less than 6 prepared meals per week. These can be ordered in bundles of 8, or 10 meals as well. 

This flexibility in order size caters to different needs and lifestyles, offering a practical solution for maintaining a plant-based diet.

9. Marley Spoon – Learn to Cook Like Martha Stewart

Marley Spoon focuses on elevated, classic American comfort meals. Its partnership with Martha Stewart has made it 1 of the most popular meal delivery services in the US. It features a huge menu, blending traditional flavors with globally-inspired ingredients for adventurous eaters in Chicago.

What’s on the Menu?

The menu features over 100 items each week, which is a significantly larger selection than many competitors. It includes diverse options like entrees, sides, and desserts. The variety caters to different tastes, despite somewhat limited dietary accommodations.

Marley Spoon offers a special category of Premium meals each week. These meals include dozens of recipes featuring superior ingredients. Options like the Organic Truffle Butter Steak are staples of the premium meal options.

A recent addition to the menu is recipe customization. This feature allows customers to swap certain ingredients to suit their preferences. However, it's important to note potential allergen cross-contamination in the menu. Find out more about its large menu in my colleague’s Marley Spoon review.

What Makes It Special?

Marley Spoon stands out for its environmental commitment. The service is designed to minimize food waste and packaging. Additionally, it’s 100% carbon neutral, balancing carbon-based materials with eco-friendly initiatives.

The partnership with Martha Stewart brings a unique touch. This collaboration provides easy-to-follow recipes for comfort food classics. The blend of Martha Stewart's culinary expertise and Marley Spoon's service creates a distinctive offering.

The service's recipe kits require basic prep but come with precise measurements. The cooking instructions are clear, making the process simple and enjoyable. This approach is ideal for those who appreciate hands-on cooking with a bit of guidance.

Is It Good Value?

Marley Spoon maintains affordability, with prices starting at $2.99 per serving. This pricing is competitive, especially considering the customization options and the service's environmental efforts.

The flexible ordering options cater to different needs. You can choose from 2 to 6 recipes per week for 2 or 4 people. This flexibility makes it a suitable choice for couples or small families looking to balance budget and quality.

10. Dinnerly – Great Budget Meals for Chicago Families

Dinnerly is the most affordable meal delivery service in Chicago. It’s always stocked full of 100+ meal kits that are simple to make and don’t contain overly exotic ingredients. The low cost and easygoing recipes make it a perfect fit for budget-conscious families or those with kids.

What’s on the Menu?

Dinnerly's menu features classic comfort foods, perfect for families and picky eaters. You'll find familiar dishes like pasta and burgers. These meals are designed to satisfy both adults and children.

In addition to comfort foods, Dinnerly offers a variety of international dishes. The selection includes vegan and seafood options, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. This variety ensures there's something for everyone.

My personal favorite, Chicken & Broccoli Mac & Cheese, perfectly encapsulates Dinnerly's approach to familiar but exciting meals. It's a twist on the classic mac and cheese, adding chicken and broccoli for a more nutritious dish. The recipe is simple, yet the result is a delicious, comforting meal.

What Makes It Special?

Dinnerly’s cooking steps are super simple. Most recipes involve just 5 easy steps, making it ideal for busy individuals who want to enjoy home-cooked meals without spending too much time in the kitchen. Find out more about how Dinnerly keeps things simple and streamlined in my colleague’s tested review.

Despite its affordability, Dinnerly offers an extensive menu. With over 100 options each week, it surpasses many higher-priced competitors in variety. This extensive selection is a significant draw for those who enjoy diverse meal options.

The service focuses on ingredient quality without driving up costs. Some of the produce is organic, and the proteins are free from antibiotics and humanely raised. This commitment to quality ingredients at low prices sets Dinnerly apart.

Is It Good Value?

Dinnerly is an incredibly affordable option in the meal kit market. Prices start at just $2.12, making it accessible for those on a budget. This affordability doesn't come at the expense of quality, making it an excellent value.

The service offers flexibility in ordering. You can choose between 2 and 6 meals for 2 or 4 people each week. This flexibility, combined with the low price point, makes Dinnerly a practical choice for various household sizes and budgets.

Bonus: Trifecta – Great Build-Your-Own Meals

Trifecta offers a unique meal delivery experience with a variety of dietary options. Its focus on fresh ingredients and convenient packaging makes it a standout choice for those seeking healthy prepared meals.

What’s on the Menu?

Trifecta provides 4 dietary plans: Clean, Keto, Paleo Whole30 Approved, and Plant Based. You can choose from 5, 7, 10, or 14 entrees per week.

The separate Signature plan allows you to select from 12 recipes, including breakfast options. However, recipes for other plans aren’t visible, which can be inconvenient for those with specific ingredient preferences. Trifecta's emphasis on variety is evident in its Signature plan, but less so in others.

All meals arrive in microwave-ready trays, portioned for individual use. This packaging is practical for easy storage and meal preparation. The trays' reusability also adds an eco-friendly aspect to the service.

What Makes It Special?

Trifecta's Meal Prep plan stands out by allowing you to create your own meals. Ingredients include meat, fish, complex carbs, and vegetables, all prepped with simple seasonings. This plan offers a unique blend of convenience and customization.

It uses only fresh and seasonal ingredients, avoiding preservatives and artificial additives. This commitment to quality ensures that meals are not only convenient but also health-conscious. Such an approach is appealing for those who prioritize clean eating. Learn more in my colleague’s Trifecta review.

Another unique feature is Trifecta's nutrition-tracking app. The app integrates all recipes and allows barcode scanning of additional products. This tool makes it easy to track meal macros, enhancing the meal management experience.

Is It Good Value?

Trifecta is 1 of the more expensive meal delivery services, with prices starting at $13.79  per serving. A full week of 7 breakfasts and 14 entrees can exceed $300. This pricing reflects the quality and convenience of the service, but it may be a consideration for those on a budget.

Despite the higher cost, Trifecta's focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and customizable meal plans offers significant value. The convenience of microwave-ready trays and the nutritional tracking app add to the overall worth of the service for those prioritizing health and convenience in their meal choices.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Meal Delivery Service in Chicago

As a meal delivery expert, I understand how overwhelming it can be to choose from the many options available. To help make your decision easier, here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Menu variety: If you enjoy experimenting with new recipes, opt for services that update their menus weekly, such as Factor. However, if you prefer familiar dishes, choose a service such as HelloFresh which changes the menu weekly but features many customer favorites over and over again.
  

• Special dietary needs: Many meal delivery services offer vegetarian or low-calorie options. But if you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, you might need a more specialized service. Green Chef is a great option catering to a wide range of specific diets. 

• Budget: The meal delivery industry offers options for a wide range of budgets. Lower-priced meals from a service like HelloFresh may contain fewer ingredients and only cater to mainstream diets. While more expensive, premium services, like Factor, may feature prepared meals and cater to restrictive diets.

• Eco-friendliness: Although meal delivery services reduce food waste, their shipping does require packaging. Consider options like Marley Spoon that use sustainable materials and strive for a smaller carbon footprint.
  

FAQ

What is the best meal delivery service in Chicago?

Factor is the best meal delivery service in Chicago with high-quality ingredients and easy, fully-prepared recipes that help you get dinner on the table in minutes. The menu is great for a range of diets, including low-calorie, high-protein, and keto.

What is the most affordable meal delivery service in Chicago?

Does HelloFresh Deliver in Chicago?

Yes. HelloFresh delivers to Chicago and to the 48 continental states. You can type in your zip code when you sign up so any delivery restrictions will be flagged upfront.

What is the best prepared meal delivery service in the Chicago suburbs?

Factor is the best prepared meal delivery service in the Chicago suburbs. You can double-check what delivery days are available for your zip code on Factor’s website.

Best Meal Delivery Services in Chicago in 2024 — Final Score