When it comes to cooking, many of us tend to stick to what we know and love – classic chicken dishes, beef or pork tenderloins, and the like. But hidden gems in the culinary world are waiting to be discovered, and one such gem is the humble chicken liver. Often overlooked in favor of more trendy ingredients, chicken livers pack a punch when it comes to flavor and texture. In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory chicken liver recipes that will elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning palates.
From pan-seared delights with caramelized onions to creamy pâtés with brandy, spicy stir-fries with garlic and ginger, and indulgent curries with coconut milk, these mouthwatering dishes showcase the versatility of this often-maligned ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, we’ve got you covered with recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Pan-Seared Chicken Livers with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory dish that combines the earthy flavor of chicken livers with the sweetness of caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers, patted dry
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken livers and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Add the sliced onions and butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Serve the chicken livers with the caramelized onions spooned over top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Creamy Chicken Liver Pâté with Brandy
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and creamy pâté, infused with the warmth of brandy. Perfect for spreading on crackers or crostini, this luxurious dip is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cognac or brandy
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken livers, onion, and garlic until the livers are cooked through.
3. Add butter, brandy, and salt. Stir until melted and combined.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Blend mixture in a food processor until smooth.
6. Gradually add heavy cream, blending until desired consistency is reached.
7. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chicken Liver Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger
This recipe combines the rich flavor of chicken liver with the warmth of ginger, garlic, and chili flakes for a spicy kick. Perfect as a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken liver, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the chicken liver; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, chili flakes, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for another minute.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Liver and Mushroom Risotto
Rich and creamy Chicken Liver and Mushroom Risotto is a hearty dish that combines the earthy flavors of chicken liver and mushrooms with the comforting warmth of Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken livers, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken livers and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, bring broth to a simmer.
4. Add rice to the skillet with mushrooms and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
6. Stir in chicken livers and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring constantly, until rice is cooked and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Chicken Liver Skewers with Herbs
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these flavorful and nutritious skewers, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Add chicken livers and toss to coat.
3. Thread 4-5 pieces of chicken liver onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chicken Liver Adobo with Soy Sauce and Vinegar
This Filipino-inspired dish is a flavorful and tangy take on traditional chicken liver adobo, enhanced by the addition of soy sauce and vinegar. The result is a rich and savory condiment perfect for serving with steamed rice or as a topping for noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the chicken livers into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken liver pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, vinegar, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chicken Liver and Bacon Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with these rich and savory Chicken Liver and Bacon Crostini!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers, cleaned and chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch rounds (about 12-15 slices)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped chicken livers, crumbled bacon, heavy cream, garlic, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the liver mixture onto each crostini.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Southern-Style Fried Chicken Livers
Savory, crispy, and utterly delicious, these fried chicken livers are a Southern classic that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy prep work, you’ll be enjoying this tasty treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dredge chicken livers in flour mixture, then dip in buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Dredge livers in flour mixture again, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry chicken livers in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Chicken Liver Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the richness of chicken liver with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken livers, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent.
2. Add chicken liver pieces; cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Liver and Onion Tart
This savory tart is a perfect combination of rich flavors and textures, featuring chicken liver and caramelized onions nestled in a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 lb chicken livers, sliced
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken livers and onions over medium heat until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Place the cooked liver and onion mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Chicken Liver Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Herbed Chicken Liver Meatballs in Tomato Sauce Recipe
A twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken liver with fresh herbs and a tangy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken liver, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chicken liver, parsley, garlic, olive oil, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the tomato sauce over medium heat.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Liver and Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Dressing
This hearty salad combines the richness of chicken liver, earthy spinach, and crispy bacon in a warm dressing that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken liver, diced
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pan.
4. Add the diced chicken liver to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken liver, spinach leaves, and crumbled bacon.
6. In a small saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the warm dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Liver Ragù with Pappardelle Pasta
This hearty ragù is a twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring tender chicken livers and rich flavors that pair perfectly with pappardelle pasta. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and chicken livers; cook until the livers are browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the wine, broth, tomato paste, and thyme; stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Cook the pappardelle pasta according to package instructions.
7. Serve the ragù over the pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Liver Pâté with Figs and Thyme
This rich and creamy pâté is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender chicken liver, caramelized figs, and fragrant thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken livers
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh or dried figs, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken livers with butter until browned.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in chopped figs and thyme. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is caramelized.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and cognac (if using).
7. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Chicken Liver and Wild Rice Pilaf
A savory and nutritious pilaf that combines the rich flavor of chicken liver with the earthy goodness of wild rice, perfect for a cozy dinner or packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken livers
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini and shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken livers and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed mushrooms and thyme to the skillet; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Stir in the cooked wild rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Liver Dumplings in Clear Broth
Savory Chicken Liver Dumplings Soothe the Soul
This classic Chinese recipe combines tender chicken liver dumplings with a clear broth, perfect for a comforting and nourishing meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chicken livers, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups clear broth (chicken or pork stock)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped chicken liver, flour, salt, and white pepper. Mix well.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a dough. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, shaping each into a ball.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the dumplings and cook until browned on the bottom (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Pour in the clear broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Liver and Apple Sauté with Sage
This autumnal-inspired recipe combines the richness of chicken liver with the crunch of apples and the earthy flavor of sage. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Braeburn work well)
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken livers and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the diced apple and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in the dried sage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the chicken livers to the skillet and simmer until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Liver Kebabs with Yogurt Marinade
This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional kebabs by incorporating the rich flavor of chicken liver. Marinated in a creamy yogurt mixture, these kebabs are perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken livers
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Wooden skewers or metal kebab sticks
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add chicken livers to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated liver onto skewers or kebab sticks, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Elevate your culinary skills with these 18 savory chicken liver recipes perfect for gourmet meals. From classic dishes like Pan-Seared Chicken Livers with Caramelized Onions and Southern-Style Fried Chicken Livers, to international flavors such as Chicken Liver Curry with Coconut Milk and Chicken Liver Adobo with Soy Sauce and Vinegar, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at creamy pâtés, hearty risottos, or flavorful skewers – each recipe is sure to impress. With a range of ingredients and cooking methods, you’ll find inspiration for any occasion.