Chicken gizzards may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of comfort food, but in the South and many other food-loving cultures, they’re a prized delicacy. Gizzards are a small, muscular part of the chicken’s digestive system, known for their chewy, meaty texture and deep, savory flavor. When cooked properly, they transform into a crispy, tender snack or side dish that rivals any fried chicken wing or drumstick. This recipe walks you through the process of making golden-brown, Southern-style fried chicken gizzards, complete with tips on tenderizing, seasoning, and frying to perfection.
Why Chicken Gizzards?
Chicken gizzards are inexpensive, full of flavor, and surprisingly high in protein. They’re popular in soul food kitchens, often paired with mashed potatoes, greens, or dipping sauces like hot sauce and ranch. Since gizzards can be tough if not prepared correctly, the key to a successful recipe is tenderizing them before frying. Once you master that, you’ll have a plate of crispy gizzards that are impossible to resist.
Ingredients
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2 pounds chicken gizzards, cleaned and trimmed
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2 cups buttermilk (for soaking)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup cornmeal (optional, for extra crunch)
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2 teaspoons salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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2 eggs, beaten
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½ cup hot sauce (mixed into the egg wash, optional)
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Vegetable oil, for frying
Step 1: Clean and Tenderize the Gizzards
Start by rinsing the gizzards thoroughly under cold water. Trim away any excess fat or connective tissue. Because gizzards are naturally tough, soaking them in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat while also removing any strong flavor. Place the cleaned gizzards in a bowl, cover them with buttermilk, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight if possible.
Some cooks also like to simmer the gizzards in seasoned water or chicken broth for 30–45 minutes before frying. This precooking step softens the meat, ensuring a tender bite beneath the crunchy coating.
Step 2: Season the Breading
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly. This flavorful coating is what gives the fried gizzards their signature golden crust.
Step 3: Create the Dipping Station
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:
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One with the seasoned flour mixture.
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One with beaten eggs whisked with a splash of hot sauce (for tangy heat).
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One with extra flour or cornmeal for a second coating.
This double-dip method ensures maximum crunch.
Step 4: Bread the Gizzards
Drain the gizzards from the buttermilk and pat them dry. Working in batches, dip each gizzard first into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally into the flour or cornmeal again. Press gently to help the coating stick. Place the breaded gizzards on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes to set the crust before frying.
Step 5: Fry to Crispy Perfection
Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the gizzards in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4–6 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the gizzards with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt while still hot.
Serving Suggestions
Fried chicken gizzards are best enjoyed hot and crispy. They pair wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, potato wedges, collard greens, or cornbread. For dipping, ranch, honey mustard, or hot sauce are classic choices. If you like extra heat, toss the fried gizzards in buffalo sauce for a fiery twist.
Tips for Success
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Tenderizing is key: Soak in buttermilk or precook before frying to avoid toughness.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: This ensures even cooking and keeps the oil hot.
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Season generously: Gizzards benefit from bold flavors, so don’t skimp on spices.
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Serve immediately: They lose crispness if left to sit too long.
Conclusion
Fried chicken gizzards are a dish that takes something humble and turns it into something spectacular. With a crispy coating, tender inside, and bold seasoning, they’re a Southern comfort food classic worth bringing into your own kitchen. Whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or snack with a cold drink, these fried morsels are proof that sometimes the best flavors come from the simplest ingredients. Once you try them, you might just find yourself craving gizzards as much as fried chicken itself.
