Besides beef liver, chicken livers are also an excellent food to enjoy. If you are looking for how to cook chicken livers properly; I think you are at the right place. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook southern-style chicken livers fried perfectly at home.
1. Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken livers, cleaned and trimmed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
In a shallow bowl or dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the dry ingredients.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 350°F (175°C).
Meanwhile, rinse the chicken livers and pat them dry with paper towels. Then place the chicken livers in the flour mixture and coat them evenly on all sides, pressing gently to adhere the flour mixture to the livers.
Carefully place the coated chicken livers into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary.
Fry the chicken livers for about 6 – 7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried chicken livers to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken livers until all are cooked.
Allow the fried chicken livers to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the southern fried chicken livers with dipping sauces and other side dishes.
2. What to Eat With Fried Chicken Livers
Fried chicken livers are a rich, crispy delight with a deep, earthy flavor. They’re a Southern classic that pairs well with a variety of sides to balance their robust taste and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to serve with fried chicken livers
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes, especially when buttery and creamy, complement the crisp texture of fried chicken livers. The mild flavor of the potatoes balances the livers’ bold, savory taste, while the smooth texture contrasts with their crunch. Adding gravy can elevate this combination, tying the dish together with its comforting richness.
Coleslaw
The tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of fried chicken livers. The acidity from the vinegar or lemon juice in the dressing cuts through the heaviness of the livers, while the crisp cabbage offers a satisfying textural contrast.
Pickles or Pickled Vegetables
The sharp, tangy flavor of pickles or pickled vegetables provides a bright contrast to the fried chicken livers. The acidity cleanses the palate, making each bite of the rich livers feel fresh and lively.
Green Beans or Collard Greens
A side of sautéed or steamed green beans or braised collard greens adds a healthy, earthy element to the plate. The greens’ slight bitterness balances the richness of the livers, while their vibrant color makes the dish visually appealing.
Hot Sauce or Dipping Sauce
Serving fried chicken livers with a tangy hot sauce or a creamy dipping sauce, such as ranch or honey mustard, adds an extra layer of flavor. The heat from hot sauce enhances the livers’ taste, while creamy sauces provide a cooling contrast.
Side Salad
A fresh, crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing element to the meal. The greens and tangy dressing brighten the dish, offering a break from the richness of the fried livers.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Soak Chicken Liver in Milk Before Cooking?
Soak chicken liver in milk is not necessary and you can simply season it with salt, pepper, and other spices before cooking. However, if you find the flavor of liver to be too strong, soaking it in milk is a great way to help mellow out the taste.
How Do You Know When Your Liver is Fully Cooked?
To ensure that chicken liver is fully cooked and safe to eat, it’s always recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This is the most reliable way to determine if the liver is fully cooked.
The internal temperature of fully cooked chicken liver should reach 165°F (74°C) as measured by a meat thermometer. This ensures that any harmful bacteria present in the liver are destroyed.
What Does Chicken Liver Taste Like?
Chicken liver has a distinct flavor that can be described as rich, earthy, and slightly metallic. It has a unique taste that sets it apart from other poultry meats. The flavor of chicken liver is often more pronounced compared to chicken breast or thigh meat.
I hope after reading this article, you will know how to cook chicken livers fried at home and try cooking them this weekend. Good Luck.
