Chicken Gizzards are a flavorful, often overlooked part of the chicken that can easily become a delicacy with the right preparation. When cooked to perfection, gizzards turn tender and absorb the rich spices and flavors of the dish.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Chicken gizzards are an inexpensive, nutrient-packed option that offers a unique, hearty flavor and chewy texture. When cooked properly, they can be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a satisfying bite. This recipe allows the gizzards to soak up rich seasonings, making them even more delicious. Perfect for a family dinner or as an appetizer at a gathering, these flavorful gizzards are sure to impress.
The beauty of chicken gizzards lies in their versatility. While often considered an underutilized cut of meat, they’re a fantastic choice for slow cooking, frying, or even grilling. This recipe captures the savory taste of gizzards with a rich, flavorful sauce or batter, depending on your preference. Plus, chicken gizzards are a great source of protein and contain many essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your meals.
Tips and Tricks for Cooking Chicken Gizzards
Tenderizing Gizzards: If you’re looking to make your gizzards extra tender, you can simmer them in water or chicken broth for 45-60 minutes before cooking them. This slow cooking process helps break down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a much softer texture.
Seasoning: Chicken gizzards are quite flavorful on their own, but they take on seasonings beautifully. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of turmeric for added depth. For an extra kick, a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sace can elevate the dish.
Frying Tips: If you prefer crispy fried gizzards, make sure to coat them thoroughly in seasoned flour before frying. The flour should be well-seasoned to give the gizzards an extra layer of flavor. Keep the oil hot but not smoking, and fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Checking Doneness: Gizzards are fully cooked when they are no longer tough and chewy. For fried gizzards, they should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. For braised or simmered gizzards, they should be tender but firm.
Adding Vinegar: A dash of vinegar can bring a subtle tanginess to the dish, which pairs wonderfully with the richness of the gizzards. Don’t overdo it—just a small amount will brighten up the overall flavor.
Variations of Chicken Gizzards
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try based on your flavor preferences:
- Spicy Gizzards: For a spicier version, marinate the gizzards in a mixture of hot sauce, garlic, and cayenne pepper before frying or braising. You can also add chopped jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat.
- Braised Gizzards in Tomato Sauce: You can braise the gizzards in a tomato-based sauce for a richer, tangier flavor. Add crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, and herbs like basil and oregano for a comforting dish.
- Grilled Gizzards: For a smoky flavor, grill your marinated gizzards. Coat them in a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices before grilling on medium heat until they develop a beautiful char.
- Crispy Gizzards with Honey Mustard Dip: If you’re in the mood for a crispy version, bread and fry the gizzards and serve them with a tangy honey mustard dip or a spicy ranch dressing for a great snack or appetizer.
How to Serve Chicken Gizzards
Chicken gizzards can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your mood and the occasion:
- As an Appetizer: Fried chicken gizzards are perfect as finger food or appetizers. Serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ sauce, or hot sauce for a tasty snack.
- Main Course: Serve braised gizzards over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or couscous. They also pair well with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Sides: For a classic Southern meal, serve fried gizzards with coleslaw, cornbread, and baked beans. If you’re going for a healthier option, pair them with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach.
- In a Sandwich or Wrap: For a fun twist, place fried gizzards in a bun with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce to create a delicious sandwich or wrap.
How to Store Chicken Gizzards
If you have leftover chicken gizzards, you can store them for later use:
- Refrigerating: Leftover gizzards can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool down to room temperature before storing.
- Freezing: To freeze, first allow the gizzards to cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, and they can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Gizzards can be reheated in a skillet with a little oil to bring back their crispy texture. For braised gizzards, gently reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken gizzards for this recipe?
Yes, frozen gizzards can be used for this recipe. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the cooking instructions as usual.
Are chicken gizzards healthy?
Yes, chicken gizzards are rich in protein, iron, and essential vitamins. They are also lower in fat compared to other cuts of meat, making them a healthier option for those seeking leaner protein sources.
Do I need to clean chicken gizzards before cooking?
Yes, it’s important to clean chicken gizzards before cooking. Gizzards typically need to be trimmed of any excess fat or tough tissue. You can also rinse them under cold water and pat them dry before cooking.
Can I cook chicken gizzards in a slow cooker?
Yes, chicken gizzards can be slow-cooked for a tender result. Add the gizzards with onions, garlic, spices, and broth, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until tender. This method is ideal for making a comforting stew.
How can I make my fried chicken gizzards extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispy fried gizzards, double dredge them in seasoned flour. First, dip them in a wet batter, then coat them in the flour mixture before frying. This creates a thick, crispy coating.
Chicken Gizzards
Chicken Gizzards are a flavorful, often overlooked part of the chicken that can easily become a delicacy with the right preparation. When cooked to perfection, gizzards turn tender and absorb the rich spices and flavors of the dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 pack of chicken gizzards (with or without hearts)
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
- 1/2 teaspoon bouillon powder (or herbs of choice)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Gizzards: Start by washing the gizzards well under cold water. Cut them in half and remove any green or fatty bits. Boil half a pot of salted water, drop in the gizzards, and let them cook for 20 minutes. Keep the lid slightly ajar as the water will bubble. Boil on high for the first 5 minutes, then reduce the heat and let it continue to simmer.
- Drain and Dry: After boiling, transfer the gizzards to a colander and rinse them under cold water. Let them air dry until ready to cook.
- Sauté: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the gizzards and sauté them until they turn a crispy, golden brown. Once they’re slightly crispy, add the sliced onion and garlic. Season with bouillon powder or a pinch of salt, depending on your preference. Continue sautéing until the onion and garlic turn golden, and the gizzards are well browned.
- Serve: Serve the gizzards over polenta, rice, or enjoy them on their own. For extra flavor, drizzle the oil from the pan on top of the gizzards.
- Be cautious when sautéing gizzards, as they may pop. If you have a lid for your pan, it’s a great way to stay safe while cooking!
- You can also turn this into a hearty soup or stew base. After boiling the gizzards, use the stock with added veggies like onions, carrots, celery, and bay leaves for a flavorful broth.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 126Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 134mgSodium: 231mgCarbohydrates: 2gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 11g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken gizzards are an underrated delicacy that, when prepared properly, offer a rich, flavorful, and satisfying dish. Whether you prefer them fried, braised, or grilled, this recipe is a great way to enjoy this unique cut of chicken. With a few tips, tricks, and variations, you can easily turn chicken gizzards into a meal your family will love. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own — you’ll be amazed at how versatile and delicious they can be!
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