Tender Fried Chicken Gizzards Recipe
Fried chicken gizzards hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up with soulful, Southern-style comfort food. Crispy on the outside, tender inside, and seasoned with love, they bring bold flavor and texture that satisfies deeply. While gizzards may be unfamiliar to some, those who know them understand how addictive they can be when cooked just right.
Gizzards come from the digestive tract of chickens, and although they may sound unusual at first, they are packed with flavor and nutrition. When simmered until soft and then fried until golden, the result is a bite that is both juicy and crisp. These little morsels are incredibly affordable, protein-rich, and easy to prepare once you know how to handle them.
Whether you are revisiting a childhood favorite or trying something new, fried chicken gizzards offer a unique twist to the usual fried chicken experience. This recipe will walk you through the steps to make them tender, flavorful, and perfectly crispy every single time.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a list of ingredients with approximate calorie counts per quantity used in the recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken gizzards | 1 pound | 470 |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup | 150 |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups | 675 |
| Cornmeal (optional) | ½ cup | 220 |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | 0 |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | ¼ teaspoon | 2 |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
| Hot sauce (optional) | 1 tablespoon | 5 |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | For deep frying | 400 (approx.) |
Estimated Total Calories: ~2,098
(Serves 4 generous portions)
Read more: Easy Homemade Gluten Free Pancake Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by rinsing the chicken gizzards well under cold water. Use a sharp knife to trim away any excess fat or connective tissue. Place them in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 45 minutes. This step is important to make them tender before frying.
While the gizzards simmer, prepare a marinade. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, eggs, hot sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Once the gizzards are tender, drain and pat them dry with paper towels. Add them to the buttermilk mixture and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the coating is evenly blended.
Heat a large pot or deep fryer with vegetable oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oil heats up, remove each gizzard from the marinade and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Press the coating on firmly so it sticks well. Let the coated gizzards rest on a plate while you prepare the batch.
Carefully place the gizzards into the hot oil in small batches. Fry for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pot, as that can lower the oil temperature. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Repeat with remaining gizzards, making sure the oil comes back to temperature between batches. Serve hot with dipping sauce, lemon wedges, or simply seasoned salt.
Read more: Best Ihop Pancake Recip
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Different spices can add personality to your coating. Try smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or add dried herbs like thyme or oregano for a more aromatic profile. If you want a spicier kick, mix in extra cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour.
For a crunchier bite, increase the cornmeal ratio or even use panko breadcrumbs in place of flour. Some also like to double-dip: coat the gizzards in flour, then buttermilk again, then another round of flour for extra crunch.
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the flour and cornmeal with gluten-free versions. You can also air-fry the gizzards instead of deep-frying. Coat them with a bit of oil spray and cook them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (based on 4 servings total) contains approximately:
- Calories: 525
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 630mg
This dish offers a protein-rich option that is flavorful and filling. Gizzards are also a source of essential vitamins like iron, zinc, and B12, which support energy and immune function.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fried gizzards as a main dish alongside mashed potatoes, cornbread, or coleslaw for a true Southern-style plate. They also make a great appetizer with spicy dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or chipotle aioli.
If you are serving them at a gathering, keep them warm in the oven set to low heat until ready to enjoy. For a fun twist, try stuffing them in soft sandwich buns with slaw for a gizzard po’ boy.
They also pair beautifully with crispy waffles or pancakes for a soulful brunch dish.
Read more: Quick and Easy Oats Pancake Recipe a Healthy Food
Conclusion
Fried chicken gizzards bring a rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture that stands out on any dinner table. With the right preparation, they become fork-tender inside and crisp outside, offering a perfect balance of comfort and crunch. They may not be the most common choice in every kitchen, but once you give them a try, you will see why they have such devoted fans.
This recipe is budget-friendly, adaptable, and full of deep Southern flavor. Whether you are revisiting family traditions or exploring something new, tender fried gizzards are sure to become a favorite in your home.