Southern Comfort on a Plate: Delicious Fried Chicken Gizzards Recipe You Must Try

Photo byAngie Bright

In the world of Southern cuisine, few dishes embody the soul of home-cooked comfort like fried chicken gizzards. Known for their crispy, golden exterior and tender, flavorful inside, chicken gizzards are a Southern staple that many people treasure. Whether served as a snack or alongside hearty sides, these morsels carry deep-rooted culinary traditions and are often the highlight of any gathering.

The Allure of Fried Chicken Gizzards

Chicken gizzards are often considered a hidden gem in the kitchen. They may not always get the attention they deserve, but anyone who's tasted their crispy, seasoned crust knows they’re irresistible. Coated in a savory blend of spices and fried to perfection, these gizzards boast an unmatched crunch with each bite.

This particular recipe takes things up a notch with a marinade in buttermilk and hot sauce, infusing the gizzards with a tangy, spicy punch before they even hit the fryer. The seasoned flour mixture creates a perfectly crispy coating that locks in all the flavors, making each bite a delightful experience. Best of all, they are easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple steps and everyday ingredients.

Recipe: Crispy Fried Chicken Gizzards

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken gizzards
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 1 ¼ cup self-rising flour
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt plus 2 teaspoons
• 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Begin by marinating the chicken gizzards to enhance their flavor and tenderness. In a large plastic storage bag, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce, shaking the bag to mix. Add the gizzards and allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for 3 hours. This process ensures the gizzards are tender and flavorful.
2. While the gizzards marinate, prepare your seasoned flour mixture. In another large bag, combine the self-rising flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
3. Once the gizzards are done marinating, remove them from the buttermilk mixture. Working in batches, place the gizzards into the bag of seasoned flour and shake until each piece is thoroughly coated. Place the coated gizzards on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 20 minutes to allow the flour to set.
4. While the gizzards rest, heat your vegetable oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 2-3 inches deep to ensure proper frying. Heat the oil until it reaches a temperature between 365°F and 375°F.
5. Fry the gizzards in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them until golden brown and crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes. Once cooked, remove the gizzards and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve the fried gizzards immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or a drizzle of extra hot sauce for added heat.

A Taste of Southern Tradition

Fried chicken gizzards may not be the most common dish found on dinner tables across the country, but they hold a special place in Southern kitchens. The blend of spices in the crispy coating paired with the tender inside makes for a satisfying bite every time. Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger meal, these fried gizzards are guaranteed to please.

So, the next time you’re looking to recreate a Southern classic in your own kitchen, give these fried chicken gizzards a try. They might just become your new favorite comfort food!

Sources:

1. Serious Eats: How to Fry Chicken Gizzards
2. Southern Living: Gizzards Recipe
3. AllRecipes: Fried Chicken Gizzards