Chicken Gizzard
Chicken gizzards are a flavorful and nutrient-rich organ meat, prized for their firm, chewy texture and savory taste. These small, muscular parts of a chicken's digestive system are dark in color and have a slightly gamey flavor that pairs well with bold seasonings and spices. Often overlooked, chicken gizzards are a budget-friendly ingredient that can be transformed into delicious dishes when cooked properly. They are commonly used in global cuisines, particularly in soul food, Asian, and Latin American recipes, where their unique texture and taste shine.
Common Uses
- Slow-cooked stews and soups: Chicken gizzards are often simmered for hours in soups or stews to tenderize them and infuse the dish with rich, meaty flavor.
- Fried chicken gizzards: A popular comfort food, gizzards are coated in seasoned flour or batter and deep-fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Grilled or skewered: In many Asian cuisines, chicken gizzards are marinated, skewered, and grilled over open flames for a smoky, charred flavor.
- Added to rice dishes: Gizzards are diced and incorporated into rice-based dishes like pilaf or dirty rice, adding a hearty, meaty texture.
- Braised with spices: Braising gizzards in a flavorful sauce or broth with spices like garlic, paprika, and bay leaves creates a tender and aromatic dish.
- Used in pâtés or stuffing: Finely chopped or ground gizzards can be mixed with other ingredients to make pâtés, terrines, or stuffing for poultry dishes.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
94.0kcal (4.7%)
Protein
17.7g (35.4%)
Carbs
0.0g
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
0.9g
Unhealthy Fat
0.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
94.0kcal (4.7%)
Protein
17.7g (35.4%)
Carbs
0.0g
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
0.9g
Unhealthy Fat
0.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- High in protein, making it a great option for muscle-building and maintaining energy levels.
- Rich in essential vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which support overall health and energy production.
- Low in fat and calories, making it a lean meat choice for weight-conscious diets.
- Contains collagen, which may contribute to joint health and skin elasticity.
- Popular in traditional cuisines, adding a unique texture and flavor to soups, stews, and stir-fries.
- A budget-friendly protein option for home cooks looking to diversify their meals.
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Storage Tips
Store chicken gizzards in the refrigerator at 32-40°F (0-4°C) and use them within 1-2 days of purchase for optimal freshness. If not using immediately, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3-4 months. Thaw frozen gizzards in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Always keep them in their original packaging or sealed to prevent cross-contamination and maintain quality.
