fried chicken gizzards recipe

The Best fried chicken gizzards recipe

Fried chicken gizzards are one of those rare dishes that feels like a hug in every bite. I’ve been making them since I was a kid, and they’ve become a staple in our house—not just because they’re delicious, but because they’re something everyone can enjoy, from picky eaters to the most adventurous of us. My husband and kids always ask for them, especially when we’re having a big meal or just need something hearty and satisfying. They’re like a little surprise in every bite, with that rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re surprisingly good for you—packed with protein, iron, and B vitamins, which makes them a smart choice for a meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

This recipe works just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as it does for a special occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just making a few for the family, the crispy coating and tender texture make them feel special no matter how you serve them. My kids love them because they’re crunchy and full of flavor, and my husband says they’re perfect with a side of coleslaw or mac and cheese. It’s a dish that’s simple enough to make in one sitting but still feels like a little treat. Plus, the fact that you’re using something often overlooked—like chicken gizzards—makes it feel fresh and different, even if you’ve made fried chicken before. It’s a way to stretch your protein and keep things interesting without feeling like you’re missing out on anything.

Crispy Fried Chicken Gizzards with Spiced Gravy

4.8 from 1782 votes

A flavorful dish featuring tender fried chicken gizzards served with a rich, spiced tomato gravy. Perfect for a hearty meal with a touch of Southern comfort.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time50 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time70 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Gizzards

• 4 chicken gizzards (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup cornmeal (for extra crispiness)

For the Spiced Gravy

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp butter (for deglazing)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Ensure your deep fryer reaches 375°F (190°C).
2. 2 Clean and pat dry the chicken gizzards thoroughly with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. 3 In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. Add the seasoned gizzards and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
4. 4 In a separate bowl, mix flour and cornmeal. Dredge each gizzard in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. 5 Heat oil in your deep fryer or pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry gizzards in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. 6 While gizzards are frying, heat chicken broth in a saucepan. Add tomato sauce, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
7. 7 Deglaze the pot with butter if using, then pour the spiced gravy over the fried gizzards. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let flavors meld.

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Deep fryer or large pot with a thermostat (for frying)
• Slotted spoon
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22💛Saturated Fat: 8❤️Cholesterol: 180🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 35🥦Dietary Fiber: 3🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 30

📝Notes

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This fried chicken gizzards recipe is always a hit because it’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to serve at any gathering—whether it’s a casual family dinner or a bigger event where you want something filling without the fuss. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd because they’re cheap, stretch far, and disappear fast, leaving you with happy guests and no leftovers to clean up. Plus, they’re a fun twist for kids and adults alike, making it a great way to keep everyone satisfied with simple, satisfying food.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Fried Chicken Gizzards with Spiced Gravy

1. What is the difference between fried chicken gizzards and fried chicken livers, and which one is better for beginners?

Fried chicken gizzards and fried chicken livers are both delicious but have distinct textures and flavors. Gizzards are the muscular part of the chicken heart, offering a chewier, more robust taste with a slightly gamey flavor. Livers, on the other hand, are richer and more intense in flavor, often requiring more skill to handle properly. For beginners, gizzards are generally easier to work with because they’re less delicate and hold their shape better when fried. However, both can be fantastic—it just depends on your preference for texture and complexity.

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2. How do I prepare chicken gizzards before frying them to ensure they’re tender and flavorful?

Preparing gizzards correctly is key to avoiding a tough or bitter taste. Start by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry thoroughly. Remove any visible connective tissue or membranes with a knife or tweezers. For extra tenderness, you can optionally soak them in a mixture of cold water and vinegar (1:1 ratio) for about 15–20 minutes, then rinse again. This helps break down some of the tough fibers. After that, pat them dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and any spices you prefer (like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder).

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3. Can I use store-bought gizzards instead of fresh ones, and what’s the best way to handle them?

Yes, you can use store-bought gizzards, but they may be less fresh and sometimes come pre-marinated or coated. Look for gizzards labeled as “fresh” or “raw” in the poultry section. Rinse them under cold water to remove any preservatives or excess salt, then pat dry. Avoid buying pre-cooked or frozen gizzards unless you plan to thaw and re-fry them properly. If possible, opt for organic or free-range gizzards for better flavor. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days before cooking.

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4. What’s the secret to getting crispy fried gizzards without them turning out soggy or greasy?

The key to achieving crispy gizzards lies in proper frying technique and ingredient prep. First, ensure your gizzards are completely dry before frying—any moisture will cause them to steam instead of crisp. Use a high-smoke-point oil like peanut, vegetable, or canola oil (or even lard for extra richness). Heat the oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C)—too hot, and they’ll burn; too low, and they’ll absorb oil. Fry in batches if needed, and don’t overcrowd the pan. For extra crispiness, let them rest on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes after frying to allow excess oil to drain.

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5. Can I make fried gizzards ahead of time and reheat them, and how do you do it without losing texture?

Yes, you can prep gizzards in advance, but reheating requires careful handling to avoid drying them out. After frying, let them cool slightly, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, the best methods are: – Oven method: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until heated through and crispy. – Air fryer method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, shaking halfway. – Stovetop method: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and fry for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them mushy. If they’re too dry, lightly coat them with a little oil before reheating.