Chicken gizzards are a hidden gem in the culinary world, offering a chewy yet delicious texture when cooked properly. This organ meat is packed with flavor and high in protein, making it a nutritious and budget-friendly option for meat lovers. Whether deep-fried to crispy perfection or slow-cooked to enhance tenderness, chicken gizzards can be a delightful treat. This recipe focuses on achieving the perfect crispy fried chicken gizzards, seasoned to perfection and cooked to golden brown deliciousness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken gizzards
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Gizzards – Rinse the chicken gizzards thoroughly under cold water. Trim off any excess fat or tough membranes to ensure a tender texture.
- Marinate – Place the cleaned gizzards in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them soak for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This helps to tenderize the gizzards and reduce toughness.
- Prepare the Coating – In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This seasoned mixture ensures a flavorful and crispy crust.
- Prepare the Egg Wash – In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the hot sauce if using. This helps the coating adhere better to the gizzards.
- Coat the Gizzards – Remove the gizzards from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drain off. Dip each gizzard into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and again back into the flour mixture for an extra crispy coating. Press lightly to ensure the flour sticks well.
- Heat the Oil – In a deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to maintain this temperature to ensure the gizzards cook evenly and turn crispy without becoming greasy.
- Fry the Gizzards – Carefully place the coated gizzards into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve and Enjoy – Let the fried gizzards rest for a few minutes before serving. They pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo. Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness!
Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Gizzards
- For extra tender gizzards, boil them in salted water for 30-40 minutes before marinating in buttermilk. This step helps break down the toughness.
- Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture gives a lighter, crispier texture.
- Maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F for the perfect crunch.
- Experiment with different seasonings like Cajun or lemon pepper for a unique twist.
This crispy fried chicken gizzards recipe is perfect for a satisfying snack, appetizer, or even a main dish. Enjoy the bold flavors and crispy texture of this underrated delicacy!