Keto Chicken Livers (Low Carb)

Keto Chicken Livers – These chicken livers not only add nutrient-dense protein to your meals but are they low in carbohydrates, incredibly rich in vitamins like B12, iron, and zinc.

Why Chicken Livers on Keto?

Chicken livers are perfect for those on the ketogenic diet for several reasons:

• Low in Carbs: Chicken livers contain less than 1g of carbs per serving, making them a fantastic choice for staying within your keto macros.
• Rich in Protein and Healthy Fats: They provide a great balance of protein and fat, essential for maintaining ketosis.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins A, B12, and iron, chicken livers can help boost energy levels and support overall health.

Now, let’s dive into the perfect keto chicken liver recipe!

Keto Chicken Livers Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken livers (trimmed and cleaned)
• 2 tbsp butter (or ghee for a dairy-free version)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced (optional for flavor, but onions do have some carbs)
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika (optional: smoked paprika for a smoky flavor)
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional for a creamy sauce)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

Instructions

Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Prepare the Chicken Livers: Rinse the chicken livers under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat or sinew.

Sauté the Onion (Optional): In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and golden. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Chicken Livers: In the same pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken livers and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are browned on the outside but still pink in the center. Be careful not to overcook, as they can become tough.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Optional Cream Sauce: If you prefer a creamy dish, lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Keto Chicken Livers

1. Don’t Overcook: Chicken livers can quickly turn tough if overcooked. Cook them just until they’re browned on the outside but still slightly pink on the inside.
2. Soak in Milk (or heavy cream for keto): If you’re sensitive to the metallic taste of liver, soak the livers in milk or cream for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps mellow the flavor.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or cilantro can brighten the dish and add extra flavor without carbs.
4. Pairing Suggestions: Serve chicken livers with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower mash, sautéed spinach, or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.

Variations to Try

Spicy Chicken Livers: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also top with jalapeños for an added boost of flavor.

Keto Chicken Liver Pâté: Blend the cooked chicken livers with softened butter, a touch of garlic, and cream for a smooth and rich pâté. Perfect as a keto appetizer served with cucumber slices or low-carb crackers.

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Livers: Wrap each liver in a slice of bacon and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until crispy. This adds an extra layer of flavor and fat, ideal for keto.

How to Serve Keto Chicken Livers

• On a Bed of Greens: Serve chicken livers atop a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil for a light and fresh keto meal.
• With Cauliflower Rice: For a heartier dish, pair the chicken livers with cauliflower rice seasoned with garlic and butter.
• Topped with Keto-Friendly Sauces: A garlic aioli, keto BBQ sauce, or mustard cream sauce can elevate the dish and add more fat to help maintain ketosis.

How to Store Chicken Livers

Refrigerating: Store leftover cooked chicken livers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.

Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken livers for up to 3 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips: Reheat chicken livers on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them rubbery.

Recipe FAQs

1. Are chicken livers keto-friendly?Yes, chicken livers are an excellent keto-friendly protein. They are very low in carbs and high in essential nutrients, making them a perfect addition to a ketogenic diet.

2. What’s the best way to cook chicken livers for keto?Pan-frying chicken livers in butter or olive oil is the best method for keto. It ensures they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while also keeping carbs low.

3. Can I eat onions on keto with this recipe?Onions do contain carbs, but when used sparingly, they can add depth of flavor without kicking you out of ketosis. For an even lower-carb option, consider using shallots or green onions.

4. What are some keto-friendly sides to pair with chicken livers?Great keto sides include cauliflower mash, roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed spinach, or zucchini noodles. These sides are low in carbs and complement the richness of chicken livers.

5. How can I reduce the strong taste of chicken livers?Soaking the chicken livers in milk or cream for 30 minutes before cooking can help reduce the strong metallic taste. Cooking them with garlic, onions, and spices can also enhance their flavor.

Final Thoughts

Chicken livers are an underappreciated yet incredibly nutritious option for keto dieters. They’re versatile, flavorful, and quick to prepare. Whether you enjoy them in a rich cream sauce, wrapped in bacon, or blended into a pâté, these livers are sure to become a staple in your low-carb, high-fat meal plan. Give this keto chicken liver recipe a try, and you might just find a new favorite dish!

Check out my other delicious keto recipes:

• Keto Chicken Broth
• Keto Chicken Marsala
• Keto Chicken Legs