Air Fryer Chicken Gizzards

Why You'll Love This Recipe

If you're looking for a delicious and easy way to prepare chicken gizzards, this air fryer recipe is a game-changer. Air frying creates crispy, tender gizzards with less oil and minimal effort. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Healthier option: Uses little to no oil compared to deep frying.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Crispy and flavorful: The air fryer gives the gizzards a delicious crunch.
• Budget-friendly: Chicken gizzards are an affordable protein source.

What Are Chicken Gizzards?

Chicken gizzards are a muscular part of the bird’s digestive tract, used to grind food. They have a firm texture and a rich, meaty flavor, making them a popular delicacy in many cuisines worldwide. When cooked properly, they become tender and delicious.

Equipment Used

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Air fryer – Any model with a temperature control setting
• Mixing bowls – For seasoning and marinating
• Knife and cutting board – To clean and prep the gizzards
• Tongs – For handling the hot gizzards safely
• Paper towels – To pat dry before seasoning

Ingredients Used

• 1 lb chicken gizzards
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (optional, for tenderizing)

How to Prepare and Clean Gizzards

1. Rinse the gizzards under cold running water.
2. Trim any excess fat or connective tissue with a sharp knife.
3. Soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (optional) to help tenderize them.
4. Drain and pat dry using paper towels before seasoning.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the gizzards with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.
3. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping.
5. Check for doneness – gizzards should be crispy on the outside and tender inside.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until crispy again.
• Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

What Can I Eat This Recipe With?

• Dipping sauces: Hot sauce, ranch, honey mustard
• Sides: Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables
• Grains: Rice, quinoa, or cornbread
• Salads: Tossed green salad or cucumber-tomato salad

Tips and Variations

• Extra crispy: Add a light coating of cornstarch before air frying.
• Spicy version: Increase cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to seasoning.
• Herbaceous flavor: Mix in dried thyme or oregano.
• Breaded gizzards: Dip in egg wash and coat with breadcrumbs before air frying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are chicken gizzards tough?

Gizzards can be tough if not cooked properly. Soaking in buttermilk and using an air fryer helps make them tender.

How long do you cook chicken gizzards in an air fryer?

They usually take 15-20 minutes at 400°F, depending on the size and thickness.

Can I marinate the gizzards overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.

Do I need to boil gizzards before air frying?

Boiling is optional but can further tenderize them before air frying.

Related Recipes

• Air Fryer Chicken Liver
• Crispy Fried Chicken Hearts
• Spicy Fried Chicken Bites
• Southern Fried Gizzards

📖 Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Gizzards

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken gizzards
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse and clean the gizzards, removing any excess fat.
2. Soak in buttermilk for 30 minutes (optional), then drain and pat dry.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
4. Toss gizzards with oil and seasonings.
5. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Enjoy these crispy and flavorful air fryer chicken gizzards as a snack or main dish!