Chicken Liver Recipes: 10 Savory Dishes Packed with Flavor

Elevate Your Cooking with Gourmet Chicken Liver Recipes

Is Chicken Liver Healthy to Eat?

YES! Chicken liver is a nutrient-rich food that offers many health benefits. It is high in protein, iron, and vitamins A and B. However, due to its high cholesterol content, it is best to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Exploring the hidden gems of the culinary world can expose you to incredible flavors and surprising delights. Among these treasures is chicken liver, an underappreciated ingredient with remarkable versatility that can enhance your dishes. Join us on a gastronomic journey as we discover gourmet chicken liver recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds.

While some might initially hesitate at the thought of consuming organ meats, chicken liver defies expectations with its rich flavor profile and impressive nutritional content. Chicken liver is a nutritious powerhouse, rich in protein, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin B12. 

Our collection of ten delicious chicken liver recipes demonstrates the versatility of this ingredient. From classic dishes honoring tradition to innovative creations pushing gastronomic boundaries.

Explore velvety pâtés, succulent skewers, and indulgent pan-seared creations to elevate your culinary skills. Discover the exquisite taste of this ingredient like never before and embark on a delightful culinary adventure with our list of 10 savory chicken liver recipes!

Raw chicken livers in a pan with salt and pepper
Raw chicken livers in a pan with salt and pepper

Table of Contents

Chicken Liver Nutrition

Cooked chicken liver with herbs
Cooked chicken liver with herbs

Chicken liver is an incredibly nutritious food, brimming with essential nutrients like iron and vitamin A. The texture can vary, depending on the cooking method, ranging from silky and smooth to firm and chewy. 

While some may find chicken liver taste too strong, organ meat provides numerous nutritional benefits and can be a delicious and nutritious addition to a well-balanced diet when cooked perfectly. This versatile ingredient can enhance the taste of any dish.

As per the USDA, a single piece of cooked chicken liver (44 grams) provides a remarkable amount of these nutrients:

  • Calories: 73.5kcal
  • Total Fat: 2.86g
  • Carbs: 0.38g
  • Protein: 10.8g
  • Sodium: 33.4mg
  • Calcium: 4.84mg
  • Iron: 5.1mg
  • Vitamin B-6: 0.33mg
  • Vitamin B-12: 7.39 µg
  • Vitamin A: 1750 µg
  • Folate: 254 µg
  • Vitamin C: 12.3mg
  • Vitamin E: 0.36mg
  • Riboflavin: 0.88mg
  • Thiamin: 0.13mg
  • Betaine: 5.63mg
  • Niacin: 4.84mg
  • Choline: 128mg
  • Phosphorus: 178mg
  • Zinc: 1.75mg
  • Potassium: 116mg
  • Magnesium: 11mg
  • Cholesterol: 248mg

How to Cook Chicken Livers

Raw chicken liver on a wooden board with ingredients
Raw chicken liver on a wooden board with ingredients

Cooking chicken livers may seem daunting, but with the right techniques, you can create delectable dishes that celebrate their unique flavors and textures. Begin by cleaning and trimming the livers, and removing any connective tissues or membranes. From there, you can explore a variety of chicken liver recipes that suit your taste preferences.

Pan-searing chicken livers offers a crispy exterior while retaining their tender interior. Sauté them with aromatic herbs and spices for an added burst of flavor. For a rich and velvety texture, consider creating a pâté by finely blending cooked livers with butter, cream, and seasonings.

Grilling or skewering chicken livers can impart a smoky note, perfect for complementing their inherent richness. Marinate them beforehand to infuse them with a depth of taste that balances their intensity.

Lastly, adding chicken livers to stir-fries creates a delightful blend of flavors, bringing a unique element to your dishes. Feel free to experiment and uncover the allure that chicken liver recipes can bring to your culinary endeavors.

Chicken Liver Recipes

Raw chicken liver on black stone board with herbs and aromatics
Raw chicken liver on black stone board with herbs and aromatics

Adding chicken liver to your diet is not only a cost-effective way to include nutrient-dense organ meats in your meals, but it also brings a plethora of health benefits. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, chicken liver provides a bold and unique flavor to enhance a wide range of recipes. 

Whether sautéed with caramelized onions and herbs or incorporated into pâtés, this versatile ingredient is sure to tantalize your taste buds. In addition to its nutritional value and culinary versatility, chicken liver is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste satisfaction. 

Discover these 10 chicken liver recipes to fully maximize the potential of this healthy ingredient.

Fried Chicken Livers

Breaded and fried Southern-style chicken livers
Breaded and fried Southern-style chicken livers

Our collection of chicken liver recipes begins with a timeless classic: Fried Chicken Livers. This beloved Southern cooking technique produces a perfectly crispy coating and juicy, tender liver cooked in flavorful bacon grease. For those following a low-carb diet, simply swap out the flour and breadcrumbs for low-carb alternatives.

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 470kcal
  • Carbs: 28g
  • Fat: 29g
  • Protein: 24g

Chicken Liver Adobo

Traditional chicken liver adobo with garlic, onion, and laurel leaves
Traditional chicken liver adobo with garlic, onion, and laurel leaves

Try this healthier and wallet-friendly twist on the famous Adobo! Discover the delightful flavors and textures of this iconic Filipino dish, enhanced by the rich essence of chicken liver. Serve it over warm rice or any of these low-carb alternatives.

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 247kcal
  • Carbs: 6g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Protein: 28g

Pan-fried Chicken Liver

Pan-fried chicken livers in an iron plate
Pan-fried chicken livers in an iron plate

Experience the exquisite flavors of this tender and juicy pan-fried chicken liver recipe. A timeless dish to add to your culinary repertoire, it guarantees unrivaled comfort and gastronomic delight. Simply pan-fry it with generous portions of onion and garlic for a tantalizing aroma and delectable taste. Don’t forget to savor the delightful pan sauce that adds an extra layer of deliciousness!

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 445kcal
  • Carbs: 17g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Protein: 22g

Dirty Rice

Fried rice with ground beef and chicken livers
Fried rice with ground beef and chicken livers

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of this chicken liver fried rice dish. Bursting with a blend of spices, tender chicken liver, and savory ground beef, every bite is an explosion of taste. This New Orleans classic is a culinary masterpiece that is sure to captivate your palate and leave you craving for more. 

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 235kcal
  • Carbs: 17g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Protein: 14g

Peri-peri Chicken Liver

Spicy peri peri chicken livers in a pan
Spicy peri peri chicken livers in a pan

Enjoy the smooth and spicy peri peri chicken livers. This budget-friendly and nutrient-rich treat is ready in just 30 minutes. Saute them with onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and aromatic spices for a delicious, quick, and affordable meal. Enjoy it with a side salad or mashed potatoes for a filling meal.

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 262kcal
  • Carbs: 5g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Protein: 28g

Chicken Liver Stir-fry

Stir-fried chicken livers with onion and pepper
Stir-fried chicken livers with onion and pepper

This recipe for Chinese chicken liver with onion and pepper produces exquisitely tender liver, crispy peppers, and an irresistibly flavorful sauce. This budget-friendly dish provides a delicious blend of affordability, flavor, and nutrition. It offers ample healthy protein and a variety of colorful vegetables. Enjoy a satisfying dinner that will please your taste and nourish your body!

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 259kcal
  • Carbs: 11.6g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Protein: 22g

Sauteed Chicken Liver with Apples

Sauteed chicken livers with apples and sherry
Sauteed chicken livers with apples and sherry

Indulge in the delectable flavors of butter-browned sauteed chicken livers. These tender, nutritious morsels are rich in iron and accompanied by a delightful combination of apples and spinach. This warm salad not only provides essential minerals but also offers an indulgent touch with a splash of sherry. Savor the exquisite taste and nourishing goodness of this dish.

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories:  260kcal
  • Carbs: 23g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Protein: 17g

Chicken Liver Pâté

Chicken liver pate in a jar spread on bread
Chicken liver pate in a jar spread on bread

This chicken liver pâté recipe combines classic charm with ease of preparation. Remember to opt for paler chicken livers for a milder flavor. Simply simmer the livers with aromatics, strain, and blend with butter in a food processor. Enjoy this delectable delight in just minutes! Pair it with crackers, bread, or any other side dish of your choice.

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 209kcal
  • Carbs: 4g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Protein: 10g

Grilled Chicken Liver

Grilled chicken livers in bamboo skewers
Grilled chicken livers in bamboo skewers

Make your chicken liver recipes exceptional by grilling them to perfection. Start by marinating the liver for at least an hour in your preferred marinade, like our easy 3-ingredient steak marinade with olive oil and lemon juice. This recipe features a tangy soy sauce marinade for a delightful flavor, while bamboo skewers add authenticity. Grill the liver over medium heat until fully cooked, capturing a smoky essence and achieving a beautifully charred texture. 

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 200kcal
  • Carbs: 2g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Protein: 20g

Chicken Liver & Bacon Salad

Gourmet chicken liver & bacon warm salad
Gourmet chicken liver & bacon warm salad

Our collection of chicken liver recipes wouldn’t be complete without this light but satisfying salad. This delightful dinner is surprisingly budget-friendly. The versatile and nutritious chicken livers, combined with crispy bacon bits, add a touch of sophistication. Best of all, it can be prepared in less than 30 minutes!

Full Recipe

Nutrition

  • Calories: 551kcal
  • Carbs: 23g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Protein: 26g

Chicken Liver Recipes FAQs

What is the Healthiest Way to Eat Chicken Liver?

The best way to enjoy chicken liver while retaining its nutritional value is by cooking it through methods that minimize excess fats or additives. Choose sautéing or grilling with minimal oil to preserve the liver’s nutrients. Pair it with vegetables and whole grains for a balanced meal. Remember to consume chicken liver (as well as pork or beef liver) in moderation due to its high cholesterol content, and consider removing visible fat before cooking.

How Long Should You Boil Chicken Livers?

Boiling chicken livers typically requires about 5 to 7 minutes of cooking time. It’s important to cook them until they are no longer pink in the center and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. Overcooking can result in a dry and tough texture, so monitor the livers closely and test for doneness by cutting them into a piece to check if it’s cooked through but still tender.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a culinary journey uncovers an abundance of treasures, including chicken liver, a delicacy that shines. Whether prepared traditionally or with a modern twist, the versatile chicken liver elevates dishes and creates culinary wonders. Its richness and unique flavors inspire a range of gourmet chicken liver recipes to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

If you enjoy traditional pâtés, grilled skewers, or well-prepared liver dishes, these delicious chicken liver recipes expand your culinary options. Plus, don’t overlook the nutritional benefits of this ingredient – it’s packed with protein, essential vitamins, and minerals for a balanced diet.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef looking to experiment with new recipes or a home cook craving a flavorful adventure, these gourmet chicken liver recipes are perfect for you. Let your creativity shine as you put your unique spin on these savory dishes. So go ahead, elevate your cooking, and savor the delicious pleasures of these chicken liver recipes.