How to Cook Chicken Gizzards in Just 15 Minutes!

Cooking chicken gizzards may look like a culinary challenge, but with the right cooking techniques and a little know-how, you can cook a mouthwatering dish with chicken gizzards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to cook chicken gizzards to perfection, whether you want tenderness and flavor or are looking for a satisfying meal for your furry friends.

Cooking Tender and Delicious Chicken Gizzards!

1. Preparing the Gizzards:

To start, clean the chicken gizzards thoroughly. Remove any excess fat and gristle, and trim them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. This step ensures they cook more evenly and absorb flavors better.

2. The Essential Tenderizing Process:

Chicken gizzards are tough in texture, but you can make them tender and flavorful by simmering them in a flavorful chicken broth. Place them in a pot of boiling water, and add salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. Let them simmer for about 45 minutes until they are fork-tender.

3. Achieving Flavorful Goodness:

After the initial simmer, drain and pat dry the gizzards for your desired results. Heat a pan with some oil, and fry them until they are lightly golden brown bottomed. This step enhances the flavor and gives them a delightful, crispy exterior.

4. Exploring Flavor Options:

Get creative with your seasonings! Some popular choices include garlic, onion, powder, thyme, and paprika. Check out to find your favorite flavor combination.

5. The Air Fryer Magic:

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, cook chicken gizzards in an air fryer. Coat them lightly with oil, season to your liking, and air fry chicken gizzards at 350°F for around 15 to 20 minutes or, if needed, up to 30 minutes each, turning halfway through. This method produces a deliciously crispy chicken gizzard’s taste without excessive oil. This method helps you lose more than 5 kgs in a month.

Learn Chicken Gizzards: The In-Depth Guide!

Chicken gizzards are a budget-friendly, nutrient-packed delicacy. However, many people avoid them because they’re unsure how to cook them perfectly. This in-depth guide will walk you through the steps and techniques to make your fried chicken gizzards tender, flavorful, and delicious.

Step 1: Cleaning the Gizzards

Cleaning the gizzards is the first and most important step. Start by removing any excess fat and connective tissues because they are unhealthy. Once cleaned, cut them into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform. This will help with even cooking.

Step 2: Tenderizing the Gizzards

Gizzards are naturally tough, so they require tenderizing. The best way to achieve this is by simmering them in a flavorful broth. Whether you use vegetable or chicken broth is up to your taste. I prefer chicken broth, but vegetables also go well. You can use water or even chicken broth or stock. Add salt, pepper, and desired herbs or spices to infuse flavor into the tender gizzards.

Step 3: Simmering for Tenderness

Place the cleaned gizzards into a pot of boiling water or broth. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot evenly. Let them cook for approximately 45 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Cooking times may vary slightly, so watch them while heating.

Step 4: Draining and Light Frying

After simmering, drain the fried gizzards and pat them dry. In a separate pan, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add heat oil to the simmered gizzards and lightly fry them until lightly browned. This step enhances the flavor and gives the fried gizzards a delightful, crispy exterior.

Step 5: Flavorful Additions

Experiment with different seasonings to enhance the flavor. Common choices include garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, or paprika. You can create a variety of flavors to suit your taste and preferences.

Step 6: The Air Fryer Method

You can also cook fried chicken gizzards in an air-deep fryer for a healthier option. Coat the gizzards lightly with oil, season them to your liking, and air deep fryer at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through. This method gives deliciously crispy fried chicken gizzard that tastes like love, even without excessive oil.

Serving Suggestions

1. A Standalone Delight with Lemon Touch:

Enjoy your perfectly cooked gizzards as a standalone snack or appetizer. Sprinkle some lemon juice or your preferred dipping sauce for an extra kick.

2. Gizzards for Your Furry Friends, Your Lovely Dogs:

If you cook for your four-legged companions, boil the gizzards without seasoning. They’ll love the natural, nutrient-rich taste.

3. Heartfelt Combos:

Combine chicken gizzards with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a wholesome, filling meal. They add a unique texture and flavor to any dish, being universal taste bud friends.

4. Gizzards with a Twist:

Experiment with various cuisines by adding fresh gizzards to stir-fries, soups, or stews. They’ll add up your dishes with a hearty, savory punch.

How to Cook Chicken Gizzards on the Stove at Your Home?

Stove-Top Chicken Gizzards Recipe:

Here’s how to cook chicken gizzards on the stove, creating tender and flavorful morsels:

Ingredients:

– 1 pound chicken gizzards

– Water

– 1-2 garlic cloves (optional)

– 1-2 bay leaves preferred

– Salt and black pepper to taste or how you want

– 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil, preferred sunflower oil

Instructions:

1. Begin by rinsing the gizzards thoroughly under cold running water.
2. Place flour, egg, and the cleaned gizzards in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
3. Add garlic cloves (if desired), bay leaves, pepper garlic, salt, and black pepper to the pot. These seasonings will flavor dark meat and the gizzards as they cook.
4. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot and let the chicken gizzards simmer for about 10 to 2 hours and 45 to 1 hour, or until they are fork-tender.
6. Once they reach your desired tenderness, drain the gizzards.
7. Heat a pan with vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add frying oil to the boiled fried chicken gizzards and lightly fry them until they develop a nice golden brown crust. This step adds a layer of flavor and texture to your fried chicken gizzard recipe.
8. Serve your stove-top cooked chicken gizzards as an appetizer, snack, or part of hot sauce for a meal.

Fried Chicken Gizzards and Hearts Recipe:

Here’s a quick guide to cooking both chicken gizzards and chicken hearts in one delightful dish:

Ingredients:

– 1 pound chicken gizzards and hearts

– Water

– 1 onion, chopped

– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced

– 1-2 bay leaves for good taste

– Salt and pepper to your taste

– 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (any oil it can be, but I prefer corn oil)

Instructions:

1. Start by rinsing the whole gizzards and hearts under cold water to clean them thoroughly.
2. Place the gizzards and hearts in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot to season the gizzards and hearts.
4. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer for 10 to about 2 hours or 45 minutes to 1 hour, ensuring they become tender during cooking time.
6. Once the gizzards and hearts are fork-tender, drain them.
7. Heat a pan with vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add hot oil to the boiled gizzards and hearts and fry them until they acquire a lovely golden brown crust.
8. Serve your delicious deep-fried chicken gizzards and hearts as a flavorful addition to your meal.

How to Cook Chicken Gizzards for Dogs

Dog-Friendly Chicken Gizzards:

Here’s how to prepare chicken gizzards and homemade gravy for your furry friend:

Ingredients:

– Chicken gizzards (as many as needed for the chicken gizzard and feet your dog’s serving)

Instructions:

1. Clean the chicken gizzards thoroughly and remove any excess fat.
2. Boil the gizzards in plain water until they are well-cooked. Avoid using seasoned salt or any seasoning or spices, as dogs have sensitive stomachs.
3. Once the gizzards are fully cooked, let them cool.
4. Cut the gizzards into small, bite-sized pieces for your dog.
5. Treat your furry companion to taste like a healthy, protein-trans, saturated, trans fat-rich snack.

Now you have comprehensive instructions on how to cook whole chicken and fried chicken gizzards on the stove and other cooking equipment. Enjoy these delightful recipes and share the goodness with your loved ones, even the four-legged ones!

FAQs

Q1. How Long It Takes to Cook Chicken Gizzards?

The cooking time for chicken gizzards varies depending on the method you choose. If you simmer them in a broth, it typically takes about 45 minutes to make them fork-tender. However, when cooking gizzards in an air fryer, you can expect to spend 15-20 minutes more for a crispy result. The key is to adjust your cooking time to achieve the desired level of tenderness and crispiness.

Q2. Can I Cook Chicken Gizzards for Dogs?

Absolutely! Chicken gizzards make a healthy treat for your furry companions. Boil the gizzards without any seasoning and let them cool. Cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces; your dogs will love this nutritious snack.

Q3. What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Simple & Fried Chicken Gizzards?

Chicken gizzards are packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and several B vitamins. These nutrients support muscle growth, energy production, and overall health. They are also low in calories and protein, making them a fantastic addition to a balanced diet.

Q4. What Seasonings Work Best with Chicken Gizzards?

Seasonings are where you can get creative. Popular choices include garlic, onion, thyme, paprika, or even a bit of lemon zest for a refreshing twist, especially for fried chicken gizzards. The key is to use the flavors you enjoy the most. You can experiment with different combinations to create unique dishes.

Q5. Can I Use Chicken Stock Instead of Water for Simmering?

Yes, you can use chicken stock for simmering the gizzards. This will enhance the flavor and add richness to your dish. Water works perfectly fine if you don’t have chicken stock, especially when seasoned and cooked properly first.

Q6. Are Chicken Gizzards Budget-Friendly?

Yes, chicken gizzards are an affordable option, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious cooks. They are not only cost-effective but also incredibly nutritious.

Q7. Can I Freeze Cooked Gizzards?

If you have cooked more gizzards, you don’t need to eat all in one sitting; you can freeze the leftovers. Please place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw and warm them in the oven or microwave.

Q8. Any Tips for Air Frying Gizzards?

When air frying gizzards, turning them halfway through the cooking time is essential to ensure even crispiness. It’s also a good idea to lightly coat them with oil before air frying, as this will help achieve that crispy texture to your fried chicken gizzards.

In Conclusion

To cook chicken gizzards is a rewarding culinary adventure. With the proper techniques, you can transform these often-overlooked ingredients into tender, flavorful delights and impress your loved ones. Whether preparing a snack for yourself, a healthy treat for your pets, or a unique meal addition, these versatile bites are worth exploring.

Now that you’ve learned how to cook chicken gizzards perfectly, you can enjoy their budget-friendly, nutrient-packed goodness whenever possible. Experiment with various seasonings and dishes to make the most of these versatile, delicious morsels.

So, grab your gizzards, get cooking, and savor the delightful results!