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Chicken hearts and gizzards displayed side by side on a wooden cutting board

Chicken Hearts and Gizzards

Explore the differences between chicken hearts and gizzards, including their unique flavors, textures, and cooking methods.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Brazilian, Filipino
Calories: 165
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Hearts
  • 1 pound chicken hearts, cleaned Fresh and properly cleaned
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil For marinating
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds smoky flavor
  • 1 juice of 1 lemon For acidity
Ingredients for Southern Fried Chicken Gizzards
  • 1 pound chicken gizzards, cleaned and parboiled Ensures tender texture
  • 1 cup buttermilk Tenderizes the gizzards
  • 1 cup flour For coating
  • 1 teaspoon paprika For flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste For seasoning
Ingredients for Chicken Heart and Gizzard Stew
  • ½ pound chicken hearts, cleaned Fresh and properly cleaned
  • ½ pound chicken gizzards, cleaned and chopped Prepped for stew
  • 1 onion, diced onion Base for stew
  • 2 carrots, sliced carrots Adds sweetness
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor
  • 2 cups chicken broth Liquid for the stew
  • 1 teaspoon thyme Herb for flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Marinate chicken hearts with olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Soak parboiled gizzards in buttermilk for 1 hour to tenderize.
Cooking
  1. For grilled chicken hearts, thread marinated hearts onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
  2. For fried gizzards, dredge in seasoned flour, then fry in hot oil (350°F/175°C) until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per batch.
  3. For chicken heart and gizzard stew, sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in a pot with olive oil, then add chicken hearts and gizzards, cooking until lightly browned.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, season with thyme, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 30–40 minutes until the gizzards are tender.

Notes

Pair fried gizzards with creamy coleslaw or mashed potatoes. Combine grilled chicken hearts with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option.