iminko
54 posts
Jul 20, 2025
2:10 PM
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When it comes to poultry, most people are familiar with chicken breasts, thighs, and wings. However, there's a lesser-known part that packs a flavorful punch — the chicken gizzard. If you’ve ever wondered what halal chicken gizzard are and how to cook them, this guide will give you a delicious introduction to this underrated delicacy.
What Are Chicken Gizzards?
Chicken gizzards are part of a bird’s digestive system. Found in the stomach region of chickens, the gizzard is a small, muscular organ that helps grind food, often with the help of small stones or grit that the bird swallows. Chickens, and other birds, lack teeth, so the gizzard plays a crucial role in breaking down grains and seeds.
Gizzards are tough due to their constant use, but when cooked properly, they become tender and richly flavorful. They're often included in packs of giblets (which may also contain the heart, liver, and neck) that come with whole chickens.
Nutritional Value of Chicken Gizzards
Gizzards are not just tasty — they’re also a nutritious addition to your diet. A 3.5-ounce (100g) serving of cooked chicken gizzards typically contains:
Calories: About 94
Protein: 18 grams
Fat: 2 grams
Iron, zinc, phosphorus, and B vitamins
Their high protein content makes them excellent for muscle repair and energy, while being low in fat and carbs.
How to Clean Chicken Gizzards
Before cooking, it’s important to clean gizzards thoroughly:
Rinse under cold water.
Cut in half lengthwise to open the gizzard.
Remove the yellow lining if it hasn’t already been removed by the butcher.
Rinse again and pat dry.
Some store-bought gizzards are already cleaned, but it’s always good to double-check.
How to Cook Chicken Gizzards
Because gizzards are dense and muscular, they need longer cooking times to become tender. Here are a few popular ways to prepare them:
1. Boiled or Simmered
Boiling gizzards is the easiest way to make them tender. It also serves as a prep step before frying or grilling.
Place cleaned gizzards in a pot.
Cover with water or chicken broth.
Add seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic, bay leaf).
Simmer for 45–60 minutes until fork-tender.
You can now use them in soups, stews, or bread and fry them.
2. Fried Chicken Gizzards
A Southern classic, fried gizzards are crispy and satisfying.
After boiling and cooling the gizzards, dredge them in flour seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Dip in buttermilk or egg wash.
Coat again in flour.
Fry in hot oil (350°F) until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes.
Serve with hot sauce or ranch dressing for a delicious snack or appetizer.
3. Sauteed or Stir-Fried
For a quicker method, thinly sliced gizzards can be sautéed.
Heat oil or butter in a pan.
Add onions, garlic, and spices.
Cook gizzards over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
This method pairs well with rice or noodles.
4. Braised Gizzards
Braising locks in flavor and ensures tender results.
Sear the gizzards in a pan with a bit of oil.
Add aromatics (onions, garlic, herbs).
Pour in broth or wine, cover, and simmer for an hour.
Serve over mashed potatoes or polenta.
Final Thoughts
Chicken gizzards might seem intimidating at first, but they’re a flavorful, protein-rich, and affordable part of the bird. Whether boiled, fried, or braised, they offer a unique taste and texture that’s loved in many cuisines around the world. So next time you see them in the store, don’t pass them by — give chicken gizzards a try in your kitchen!
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