Spicy Southern Chicken Gizzards

🕒 Prep: 2 hours
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Get ready to spice things up with this Spicy Southern Chicken Gizzards recipe! Perfectly seasoned and fried to a crispy golden brown, these gizzards are a true Southern delight, delivering a savory crunch with each bite. Whether you're new to cooking gizzards or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to.

Ingredients for Spicy Southern Chicken Gizzards

Chicken gizzards are the star of this recipe, offering a unique texture and flavor that's rich and earthy. Buttermilk tenderizes the gizzards, infusing them with a subtle tang while prepping them for the perfect fry. The flour forms the base of our crispy coating, while cayenne pepper and garlic powder bring the heat and depth of flavor. Black pepper and salt add a final touch of seasoning, enhancing the overall taste. Finally, vegetable oil is our trusty frying companion, ensuring a golden, crunchy finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Soak the gizzards overnight if you have time; it makes them even more tender.
  • Don't rush the frying process; ensure the oil is hot enough for a crispy finish.
  • If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper to your liking.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350°F for even frying.

Serving Suggestions

These spicy gizzards pair wonderfully with a side of creamy coleslaw, which adds a cool, crunchy contrast. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a bowl of mashed potatoes or Southern-style greens. And don't forget a cold beverage to wash down the heat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen gizzards?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before soaking in buttermilk.
What if I don't have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk, then letting it sit for a few minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Spicy Southern Chicken Gizzards Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, let's get those chicken gizzards cleaned up. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This step is crucial to remove any grit or debris. Once they're squeaky clean, it's time for a buttermilk bath. Soak the gizzards in a bowl of buttermilk for at least 2 hours in the fridge. This soak not only tenderizes the gizzards but also gives them a slight tang that pairs beautifully with the spices.

While the gizzards are chilling, mix up your seasoned flour. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. This blend is what gives the gizzards their spicy, crispy coating.

When you're ready to fry, heat up some vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. You'll want enough oil to submerge the gizzards about halfway. Remove the gizzards from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off before dredging them in the flour mixture. Give each piece a good coating.

Now, it's time to fry! Carefully place the gizzards in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they're golden brown and crispy. Once done, let them drain on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.

Finally, garnish your crispy creations with some lemon slices and fresh parsley. The lemon adds a bright, citrusy contrast to the heat, while the parsley adds a touch of color and freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly crispy with just the right amount of heat.
  • Simple ingredients that pack a flavor punch.
  • Great for entertaining or a cozy night in.
  • A delicious way to enjoy an often overlooked ingredient.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken gizzards
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
Vegetable oil for frying
1 lemon, sliced for garnish
Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Clean the chicken gizzards thoroughly under cold running water.
2. In a bowl, soak the gizzards in buttermilk for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Remove gizzards from buttermilk and dredge in the seasoned flour mixture.
6. Fry the gizzards in batches for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley before serving.

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