Big Chicken Gizzards Recipe Southern Style Fried Gizzards
Big Chicken Gizzards Recipe Southern Style Fried Gizzards
Ingredients:
For Cleaning & Boiling:
3 lbs raw chicken gizzards
1/4 cup vinegar or lemon juice (for cleaning)
Water (for rinsing and boiling)
1 tbsp salt (for boiling)
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp black pepper
2 bay leaves (optional)
1 small onion, halved
For Breading & Frying:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme or oregano
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp black pepper
3 large eggs
1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
Vegetable oil for deep frying (peanut or canola preferred)
Step 1: Cleaning the Gizzards
Trim & Inspect: Remove any yellow membrane or excess fat from each gizzard.
Soak: Place the gizzards in a bowl with cold water and a few tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice. Soak for 15–20 minutes to help remove odors and residual grime.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse several times under cold running water until the water runs clear.
Step 2: Boiling (Tenderizing)
Boil: Place cleaned gizzards in a large pot. Cover with water.
Add Seasonings: Add salt, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, bay leaves, and halved onion.
Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer covered for 45–60 minutes or until fork-tender.
Drain & Cool: Drain and let cool. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Breading
Seasoned Flour Mix: In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Egg Wash: In another bowl, beat eggs and mix in milk or buttermilk.
Double Dip:
Dip each gizzard in flour mixture, then into egg wash, then back into the flour mix.
For extra crunch, press the flour coating onto the gizzards to help it stick well.
Step 4: Frying
Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large, heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry in Batches: Carefully place gizzards in hot oil in batches. Do not overcrowd.
Cook Time: Fry for about 3–5 minutes per batch, until golden brown and crispy.
Drain: Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Optional Sauces & Serving Ideas
Hot Sauce or Buffalo Style: Toss in hot sauce and melted butter for spicy gizzards.
Garlic Butter Gizzards: Sauté fried gizzards in garlic butter and parsley.
Serve with: Rice, fries, grits, collard greens, or cornbread.
Storage Tips:
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze boiled (not breaded) gizzards for later use.