If you’re looking for the ultimate crispy fried snack, this Fried Chicken Gizzards recipe is a must-try. With a golden, crunchy coating and a tender inside, these gizzards are a true Southern comfort food classic. Affordable, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, they make the perfect appetizer, side dish, or game-day snack.
Whether you’re a fan of soul food recipes or just looking for a unique twist on fried chicken, this recipe will win you over.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Crispy & Flavorful – Double dredged for maximum crunch.
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Gizzards are inexpensive but delicious when cooked right.
✔️ Southern Classic – A staple in many soul food kitchens.
✔️ Perfect for Parties – Serve with dipping sauces for an easy crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Fried Chicken Gizzards
Here’s everything you need to make the best crispy fried chicken gizzards:
- 1 lb chicken gizzards (cleaned and trimmed)
- 2 cups buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (adds extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil works best)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Soak the Gizzards
Place the cleaned gizzards in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 2 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator). This helps tenderize and removes any gamey flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating
In a large bowl, whisk together: flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge the Gizzards
Remove gizzards from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Coat each piece in the flour mixture until well covered. For extra crispy fried chicken gizzards, dip back into buttermilk and dredge in flour again (double dredge).
4. Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Gizzards
Fry in small batches for 4–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
6. Drain & Serve
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Enjoy!
Serve hot with ranch, honey mustard, hot sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Gizzards
- Tenderize longer: Soaking overnight in buttermilk gives the best results.
- Double dredge: For restaurant-style crunch, coat twice.
- Right oil temperature: Keep oil at 350°F—too hot will burn the outside, too low will make them greasy.
- Serve immediately: Gizzards are best eaten hot and crispy.
Variations & Serving Ideas
- Spicy Gizzards: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce to the buttermilk soak.
- Garlic Parmesan Gizzards: Toss fried gizzards in garlic butter and Parmesan cheese.
- Southern Soul Food Style: Serve with collard greens, cornbread, and mac & cheese.
- Game-Day Snack: Pair with fries, onion rings, and dipping sauces for the ultimate platter.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Place in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until crispy again (about 10 minutes). Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked gizzards for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven without thawing.
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Final Thoughts
These crispy fried chicken gizzards are proof that with the right preparation, an affordable cut of meat can become a show-stopping dish. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and the perfect bite-sized snack for any occasion.
👉 Try this recipe once, and you’ll understand why it’s a Southern favorite passed down through generations.