chicken gizzard recipe

The Best chicken gizzard recipe

Oh, there’s something about chicken gizzards that just makes my heart warm up—like a cozy blanket on a cold winter night, but way better for you. I’ve been making them since my kids were little, and honestly, they’ve become a staple in our house, both for special occasions and just regular weeknight meals. Back when my boys were picky eaters, I’d sneak them into soups or stir-fries, and suddenly, they’d eat anything. Now, they’re all about them straight-up, and my husband even admits he’s got a soft spot for them too. It’s not just the taste—it’s the way they’re packed with protein and iron, and they’re so much cheaper than chicken breast. Plus, they’re versatile. You can grill ‘em, braise ‘em, or even just pan-sear ‘em with a little spice. They’re perfect for a family dinner because they’re filling without being heavy, and they’re great for meal prep too. My kids love them when they’re crispy and seasoned right, and my husband always says they’re the best part of any stew or chili. It’s a recipe that’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but feels special enough for a holiday spread. Plus, there’s something comforting about cooking something that’s been around for centuries—it’s like a little piece of history in your kitchen. And honestly, it’s one of those things that makes you feel like you’re doing something good for your family without even trying.

Crispy Baked Chicken Gizzards with Garlic Butter Sauce

4.8 from 909 votes

A flavorful and crispy baked dish featuring chicken gizzards coated in a simple dough and glazed with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a hearty meal!

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time60 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

• 4 chicken gizzards (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2 In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and black pepper. Add beaten egg and olive oil, stirring until the dough comes together.
3. 3 Place chicken gizzards in the bowl, coating them evenly with the dough mixture. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
4. 4 Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tbsp of butter. Sear the gizzards for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. 5 Transfer the gizzards to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. 6 While gizzards bake, melt remaining butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
7. 7 After baking, pour the garlic butter sauce over the gizzards and toss gently to coat. Return to the oven for 5 more minutes to let the sauce warm through.

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Parchment paper

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28💛Saturated Fat: 18❤️Cholesterol: 150🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 15🥦Dietary Fiber: 1🍬Sugars: 2🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

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This chicken gizzard recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s great for filling out a meal without being too heavy, and the tender texture of the gizzards makes them a crowd-pleaser that won’t go unnoticed. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to add protein and depth to dishes like stews, stir-fries, or even as a side when you need something satisfying but not overly complicated.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Baked Chicken Gizzards with Garlic Butter Sauce

What is the difference between chicken gizzard and chicken liver in flavor and texture?

Chicken gizzards have a distinct, slightly gamey and robust flavor with a chewy, fibrous texture, often described as meatier and heartier than chicken liver. They’re rich in collagen and connective tissue, which makes them firmer and chewier when cooked, while chicken liver tends to be more delicate and tender with a stronger, more metallic or earthy taste due to its higher iron content.

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How do I prepare chicken gizzards for cooking?

To prepare chicken gizzards, start by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water to remove any blood or debris. You can either leave them whole (for braising or stewing) or cut them into smaller chunks (for stir-fries or grilling). For best results, pat them dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices (like garlic powder, paprika, or herbs). If you’re using them in a recipe that requires marinating, soak them in a mixture of water and vinegar (like apple cider vinegar) for about 15–30 minutes to help tenderize the tough fibers before cooking.

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Can I use chicken gizzards in place of chicken breast or thighs in a recipe?

Yes, chicken gizzards can work well in place of chicken breast or thighs, but you’ll need to adjust cooking methods to account for their denser texture. Since gizzards are tougher and more fibrous, they’re better suited for slow-cooking techniques like braising, stewing, or roasting (at lower temperatures for longer periods) rather than quick cooking methods like grilling or stir-frying. If you’re substituting them in a recipe, you may need to add a bit more liquid (like broth or water) to prevent drying out, and you might want to shred or chop them finely to distribute the flavor more evenly.

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What are some traditional ways to cook chicken gizzards?

Chicken gizzards are a staple in many cuisines, particularly in Southern U.S. and Latin American cooking. Here are a few traditional methods: – Braising: Simmer gizzards in a flavorful broth (with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and spices like cumin or smoked paprika) until tender and fall-off-the-bone soft. – Stewing: Combine gizzards with vegetables (like potatoes, carrots, and celery) in a rich, seasoned broth for a hearty, slow-cooked dish. – Pan-frying or Sautéing: Lightly sear gizzards in oil until crispy, then add them to a dish like a stew or rice for extra depth of flavor. – Grilled or Roasted: For a smoky flavor, grill or roast gizzards with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and spices, then serve with a side of rice or beans. – Stuffed or Filled: Some recipes stuff gizzards with herbs, rice, or other fillings (like pineapple or corn) before cooking. – Pickled or Fermented: In some cultures, gizzards are pickled in vinegar or fermented for preservation and added to salads or sandwiches.

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Are chicken gizzards healthy, and what nutritional benefits do they offer?

Yes, chicken gizzards are a nutrient-dense food with several health benefits, though they’re often overlooked compared to breast or thighs. They’re rich in: – Protein: High in lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. – Collagen & Gelatin: Great for joint health and skin elasticity due to their high collagen content. – Iron: A good source of heme iron (easier to absorb than non-heme iron), which is essential for oxygen transport in the blood. – B vitamins (B12, niacin, riboflavin): Supports energy metabolism and nervous system function. – Zinc & Phosphorus: Important for immune function and bone health. – Low in fat: Compared to darker meat, gizzards are relatively lean, making them a heart-healthy option when prepared without excessive oil.

While they’re tougher than breast meat, their high nutrient density and collagen content can make them a valuable addition to a balanced diet, especially for those looking to boost protein intake or support joint health. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as they’re calorie-dense due to their collagen content.