Fried Chicken Gizzards

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken gizzards, cleaned and trimmed
• 2 cups buttermilk (for soaking)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. Soak the Gizzards:
   Place cleaned chicken gizzards in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator. This tenderizes the meat.
2. Boil for Tenderness (Optional but Recommended):
   Drain the buttermilk. In a saucepan, cover gizzards with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare Coating:
   In a large bowl or zip-top bag, mix flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the Gizzards:
   Pat gizzards dry. Toss them in the flour mixture until well coated. For extra crispiness, dip in a little water or egg and re-coat.
5. Fry:
   Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry gizzards in batches for 3–5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
6. Drain:
   Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve:
   Enjoy hot with dipping sauces like ranch, hot sauce, or honey mustard.

Let me know if you’d like a spicy version or an air fryer option!