🍗 Chicken Gizzards: The Underrated Superfood You Need to Try

🍳 How to Cook Gizzards So They’re Tender & Delicious

Raw gizzards are tough—but with the right technique, they transform into a silky, flavorful dish.

Braised Chicken Gizzards (Classic Method)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken gizzards

• 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive)

• 1 onion, sliced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup broth (chicken or vegetable)

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt, pepper, paprika, thyme (or your favorite seasoning)

Instructions:

1. Clean & Trim: Rinse gizzards, remove membranes, cut into bite-sized pieces.

2. Sear (Optional): Brown gizzards in oil for 3–4 minutes per side.

3. Braise: Add onions, garlic, herbs, and broth. Simmer covered for 60–90 minutes until tender.

4. Serve: Use in stir-fries, tacos, pâtés, or over rice.

🔥 Pro Tip: Pressure cook in an Instant Pot for 25–30 minutes for the same tenderness in less time.

Quick Ways to Enjoy Gizzards

• Southern-Style Stew: With potatoes, carrots, and black pepper gravy

• Grilled Skewers: Marinate in soy, garlic, and ginger

• Chicken Livers & Gizzards Pâté: Blend with butter, herbs, and brandy

• Tacos or Empanadas: Shredded and spiced in tortillas

• Soup Base: Adds richness to chicken soup or gumbo

🌱 Save the cooking liquid—it’s packed with flavor and nutrients!

❓ Common Questions

Are gizzards safe to eat?
Yes! Ensure they’re cleaned and cooked thoroughly (internal temp ≥165°F / 74°C).

Where can I buy them?

• Butcher counters

• Asian or Latin grocery stores

• Farmers markets

• Some supermarkets (check frozen section or ask for giblets)

Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! Raw or cooked gizzards freeze up to 6 months.

🌱 Why Gizzards Matter Beyond Nutrition

Eating gizzards isn’t just about health—it’s about values:

• ✅ Nose-to-Tail Eating: Reduces waste and honors the animal

• ✅ Budget-Friendly: Often cheaper than breast or tenderloins

• ✅ Sustainable Choice: Uses every part of the animal

• ✅ Culinary Adventure: Connects you to global food traditions

💡 Fun fact: In Brazil, moela (chicken gizzard) is a popular bar snack—grilled and seasoned with lime.

Final Thoughts

Next time you’re at the market, skip the usual. Reach for something bold. Try chicken gizzards.

Real food wisdom isn’t about trends—it’s about respect, resourcefulness, and rediscovering what’s already on your plate.

Because a meal like this? It doesn’t just feed your body. It tells a story.