Fried Chicken Gizzards Recipe: Tender, Crispy, and Full of Flavor
When it comes to comfort food, few things rival the crispy, golden bite of fried chicken gizzards. This dish has long been a family favorite, and for good reason—it’s the perfect combination of tender and crunchy, with seasonings that make every bite irresistible. If you’ve ever been unsure about cooking gizzards at home, this simple recipe will walk you through the process, guaranteeing success every time.
Why Fried Chicken Gizzards Are a Must-Try
Chicken gizzards might not get the spotlight they deserve, but they’re a hidden gem in Southern and comfort food cooking. Properly prepared, they’re tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and absolutely packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or as a snack to impress friends, this recipe ensures they’ll come out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
For Slow Cooking:
- 1 pound chicken gizzards
- Water (enough to cover the gizzards)
- Garlic powder or fresh garlic (to taste)
- Onion powder or a whole onion (to taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons Knorr chicken base (or substitute with homemade chicken stock or store-bought broth)
For Frying:
- 1 egg
- 1–2 tablespoons water
- Flour (for coating)
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Tenderize the Gizzards
The secret to perfect fried chicken gizzards is tenderizing them before frying. Here’s how:
- Slow Cooker Method: Place the chicken gizzards in a slow cooker, cover them with water, and add your seasonings (garlic, onion, and chicken base). Cook on low overnight until tender.
- Pressure Cooker or Stovetop Alternative: You can also use a pressure cooker, Instant Pot, or boil them on the stovetop until tender—whichever method you prefer!
Once tender, let the gizzards cool completely before moving on to the frying steps.
2. Prep the Gizzards for Frying
For the crispiest results, follow these four breading steps:
- Season: Place the cooled chicken gizzards in a glass baking dish and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- First Flour Coat: Lightly coat the seasoned gizzards with flour, tossing gently to ensure an even layer.
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat one egg with a splash of water. Dip the floured gizzards in the egg wash, ensuring they’re well-coated.
- Final Flour Coat: Roll the egg-washed gizzards in plain flour, pressing gently to coat. Shake off any excess flour and set aside on a plate.
3. Fry the Gizzards
- Heat oil in an electric skillet (or a deep frying pan) over medium heat.
- Fry the gizzards in small batches, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded in the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken Gizzards
- Don’t Skip the Tenderizing: Slow cooking or pressure cooking the gizzards ensures they’re melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Season Generously: Don’t hold back on the seasonings! They’re key to making the flavors shine.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Ranch, hot sauce, or honey mustard pair beautifully with fried chicken gizzards.
A Crispy, Flavorful Tradition
This fried chicken gizzards recipe is a labor of love, but the results are so worth it. Each bite is tender, crispy, and packed with flavor—the kind of dish that brings family together around the table. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the crispy goodness of homemade fried chicken gizzards. Happy eating!
