Golden, crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Southern-style fried chicken gizzards are comfort food at its best. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or hearty meal.
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken gizzards, cleaned and trimmed
- 2 cups buttermilk
(or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar) - 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Tenderize the gizzards
Place gizzards in a pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil, then simmer 45–60 minutes until tender.
Drain and let cool slightly.
2️⃣ Marinate
Place cooked gizzards in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).
3️⃣ Prepare coating
In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.
4️⃣ Coat
Remove gizzards from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
Dredge thoroughly in flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
5️⃣ Fry
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry gizzards in batches for 4–6 minutes, until deep golden and crispy.
6️⃣ Drain & serve
Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
📝 Description
These fried chicken gizzards are crunchy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. The buttermilk keeps them juicy while the flour-cornstarch coating creates an irresistible crisp crust.
💡 Tips for Success
- Always simmer gizzards first for tenderness
- Cornstarch is key for extra crunch
- Don’t overcrowd the pan
- Serve immediately for best texture
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- With hot sauce or ranch
- Alongside fries or coleslaw
- As a game-day snack or Southern dinner
🥗 Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
⭐ Conclusion
Crispy fried chicken gizzards are a true Southern classic—simple, affordable, and packed with flavor. Once you make them at home, you’ll never crave takeout again.