Chicken gizzards might not be the star of your dinner plate, but they sure deserve a spotlight! Packed with nutrients, these flavorful little morsels are both affordable and versatile. Whether you love Southern comfort food or are looking for a unique twist on family meals, gizzards can easily fit into your weekly menu.
With a hearty texture that soaks up flavors beautifully, these underappreciated cuts can be transformed into remarkable dishes that are both nutritious and delicious. Let’s explore seven easy meals that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also boost your nutrition game. Each recipe is crafted to make the most of chicken gizzards, turning them into culinary delights you simply can’t pass up!
Contents
- 1. Southern-Style Chicken Gizzard Stew
- 2. Spicy Chicken Gizzard Stir-Fry
- 3. Crispy Fried Gizzards with Dipping Sauce
- 4. Chicken Gizzard Salad with Avocado
- 5. Chicken Gizzard Tacos
- 6. Chicken Gizzards and Rice Pilaf
- 7. Chicken Gizzard Soup
1. Southern-Style Chicken Gizzard Stew
Imagine a warm bowl of stew that wraps you in a comforting hug. This Southern-style chicken gizzard stew combines tender gizzards with hearty vegetables and spices for a dish that’s both nutritious and soul-soothing. The slow simmering allows flavors to blend beautifully, resulting in a rich, savory experience.
Perfect for chilly evenings, this stew highlights gizzards’ delicious texture. Pair it with cornbread for a traditional twist, and you’ll have a meal that friends and family will rave about!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
– Calories: 350 per serving
Nutrition Information:
– Protein: 35g
– Carbs: 20g
– Fats: 15g
– Fiber: 5g
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, cleaned and trimmed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
2. Add carrots and celery, cooking until slightly tender.
3. Stir in the gizzards, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours until gizzards are tender.
5. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot, preferably with cornbread.
Tips for the Best Stew:
– Make sure to clean the gizzards thoroughly for the best flavor.
– Let the stew sit for a bit before serving; it tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use other meats? Yes, you can substitute with chicken thighs or beef.
– How can I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Spicy Chicken Gizzard Stir-Fry
Get ready to fire up your taste buds with this spicy chicken gizzard stir-fry! This dish is a fantastic way to enjoy gizzards in a quick and delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights. The stir-fry method keeps the gizzards juicy while allowing the veggies to stay crisp and vibrant.
Filled with colorful bell peppers, snap peas, and a kick of chili, this dish offers a perfect blend of nutrition and excitement. Serve it over rice or quinoa for an easy meal that packs a flavorful punch.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 2
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
– Calories: 300 per serving
Nutrition Information:
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 15g
– Fats: 10g
– Fiber: 4g
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili paste
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced gizzards and stir-fry until browned and cooked through.
3. Toss in bell peppers and snap peas, stir-frying for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Mix in soy sauce and chili paste, ensuring everything is well-coated.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve hot with rice or quinoa.
Tips for the Best Stir-Fry:
– Slice the gizzards thinly for quicker cooking.
– Customize the veggies based on what you have at home.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I make it less spicy? Absolutely, just reduce the chili paste!
3. Crispy Fried Gizzards with Dipping Sauce
Crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, crispy fried chicken gizzards are a treat that everyone will love! Perfect for game day or as a fun appetizer, this recipe will elevate gizzards to new heights. The golden-brown crust, seasoned to perfection, is irresistible.
Serve these gizzards with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick that will leave everyone coming back for seconds! You might just discover that they are better than any store-bought snack you’ve ever had.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 15 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Calories: 400 per serving
Nutrition Information:
– Protein: 25g
– Carbs: 30g
– Fats: 20g
– Fiber: 2g
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, cleaned
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying
– Dipping sauce of choice
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soak gizzards in buttermilk for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot.
4. Dredge soaked gizzards in the flour mixture.
5. Fry in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Crunch:
– Don’t overcrowd the fryer to maintain the oil temperature.
– Experiment with different spices in the flour mix for unique flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I bake them instead? Yes, you can bake at 400°F for a healthier version.
4. Chicken Gizzard Salad with Avocado
Step into a world of freshness with this chicken gizzard salad topped with creamy avocado. This recipe is a delightful way to incorporate gizzards into a light meal, bursting with textures and flavors that delight your palate. The gizzards are grilled or sautéed to perfection and served atop a bed of greens.
Avocado adds a rich, buttery element that pairs beautifully with the savory gizzards while a splash of lemon juice brightens the entire dish. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this salad is not just good for you but incredibly satisfying!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 2
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 25 minutes
– Calories: 275 per serving
Nutrition Information:
– Protein: 28g
– Carbs: 10g
– Fats: 15g
– Fiber: 6g
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, cooked and sliced
– 2 cups mixed salad greens
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sliced gizzards and avocado to the salad mix.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
5. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Salad:
– Use ripe avocados for the creamiest texture.
– Feel free to swap in your favorite salad veggies!
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use leftover gizzards? Yes, this is a great way to use up leftovers!
5. Chicken Gizzard Tacos
Brighten your taco night with these scrumptious chicken gizzard tacos! Using gizzards adds a unique twist to traditional tacos, and when seasoned right, they’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. Loaded with fresh toppings like salsa, lettuce, and cheese, these tacos are sure to become a new family favorite.
They’re perfect for gatherings or simply a fun weeknight dinner. Serve them with a side of black beans and rice for a complete meal that brings everyone together for some flavorful fun!
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Calories: 330 per serving
Nutrition Information:
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 18g
– Fats: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, cleaned and chopped
– 8 small tortillas
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese
– Salsa for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a skillet, cook gizzards over medium heat until browned, about 10 minutes.
2. Sprinkle taco seasoning over gizzards, stirring to coat.
3. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
4. Assemble tacos by placing gizzards on tortillas and topping with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Tacos:
– Try different toppings like guacamole or jalapeños for added flavor.
– Use fresh corn tortillas for an authentic taste.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I make these in bulk? Yes, these tacos are perfect for meal prep! Just store the gizzards and toppings separately until ready to serve.
6. Chicken Gizzards and Rice Pilaf
Elevate your meal experience with a delicious chicken gizzards and rice pilaf! This dish combines savory gizzards with perfectly cooked rice, flavored with herbs and spices for a filling and nutritious meal. Pilaf is not only tasty but also a fantastic base for gizzards that soak up all those wonderful flavors.
It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy nights. Serve it as a side or as a main dish alongside your favorite greens for a balanced meal.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 4
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Calories: 320 per serving
Nutrition Information:
– Protein: 30g
– Carbs: 35g
– Fats: 8g
– Fiber: 3g
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, cleaned and chopped
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat; add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Add gizzards and sauté until browned.
3. Stir in rice and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb flavors.
4. Add broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Cover and reduce heat to low; simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Fluff rice with a fork before serving.
Tips for the Best Pilaf:
– Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
– Feel free to add peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I use brown rice? Yes, just adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
7. Chicken Gizzard Soup
Ending our list with a comforting chicken gizzard soup, perfect for days when you crave something warm and nourishing. This soup is not just delicious; it’s a great way to utilize gizzards and create a healing bowl of goodness. Packed with vegetables and spices, it’s a nutritious option that can easily be tailored to your taste.
The broth becomes rich and flavorful, making every spoonful a delight. This dish serves as a wonderful starter or can be a hearty main dish on its own.
Recipe Overview:
– Servings: 6
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 45 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour
– Calories: 280 per serving
Nutrition Information:
– Protein: 25g
– Carbs: 15g
– Fats: 10g
– Fiber: 4g
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, cleaned
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine all ingredients and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until gizzards are tender.
3. Adjust seasoning before serving and enjoy hot!
Tips for the Best Soup:
– Skim off any foam that rises to the top while simmering for a clearer broth.
– Add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– Can I freeze this soup? Yes, it freezes well for up to three months.
Conclusion
Chicken gizzards might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of nutritious meals, but these recipes demonstrate their versatility and flavor. From stews and stir-fries to salads and tacos, gizzards offer an exciting way to elevate your meals while being kind to your budget.
Take a culinary adventure into the world of gizzards and explore new tastes that are not only satisfying but incredibly nourishing. Don’t hesitate to try these dishes at home; your taste buds will thank you!
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