What is the origin of the idiom "chicken feed" and when to use it?

The idiom "chicken feed" originates from the practice of feeding chickens with inexpensive grains and seeds. In this context, "feed" refers to the food provided to chickens, and "chicken feed" denotes something of little value or significance. It is used to describe a small or insignificant amount of money, usually considered to be paltry or meager.