When it comes to bold and exciting flavors, few ingredients can rival the humble gizzard. Often overlooked in favor of more trendy cuts like filet mignon or salmon, this little-known organ meat deserves a spot on your culinary radar. And when you add a dash of heat, the possibilities become endless! From spicy fried chicken-style indulgences to Korean-inspired braises and Indian-inspired curries, gizzards can be transformed into a world of flavors.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 spicy gizzard recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. Whether you’re in the mood for something crispy and fried, slow-cooked and comforting, or boldly Asian-inspired, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab some gizzards and get ready to ignite your flavor game!
Spicy Fried Chicken Gizzards
Get ready to spice up your fried chicken game with this addictive recipe for Spicy Fried Chicken Gizzards!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken gizzards
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each gizzard into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated gizzards on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the gizzards in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Gizzard Stir-Fry
Savory and aromatic, this Garlic Butter Gizzard Stir-Fry is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to please. With the tender gizzards cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the gizzards and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Grilled Gizzards
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this simple and delicious recipe for Cajun Grilled Gizzards. This classic Southern dish is a staple at many backyard barbecues, and our version adds a zesty kick that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 chicken gizzards
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (like Tony Chachere’s)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or spray, for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder.
2. Add the chicken gizzards to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove gizzards from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill gizzards for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Spicy Braised Gizzards
Spice up your meal with this bold and flavorful Korean-inspired braised gizzard dish, infused with the sweet and spicy notes of gochujang.
Ingredients:
– 4 gizzards (chicken or turkey), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon crushed black pepper
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add gizzards and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove gizzards and set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, water, ginger, and black pepper.
6. Return gizzards to pot; cover and simmer for 1 hour or until meat is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Gizzard Adobo with Chili Peppers
Gizzard Adobo with Chili Peppers: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Filipino Dish
This recipe adds a bold and spicy kick to the traditional Gizzard Adobo, perfect for those who like a little heat. The addition of chili peppers gives this dish a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gizzards
– 2 tablespoons vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
– 2-3 chili peppers, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pan or wok, combine gizzards, vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the gizzards are tender.
3. Add sliced chili peppers, garlic, and black pepper to the pan.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jerk-Seasoned Gizzard Skewers
These Caribbean-inspired skewers pack a punch with the bold flavors of jerk seasoning, perfect for grilling or baking. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying tender and delicious gizzard bites in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Thread gizzards onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto the gizzards.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the gizzards and sprinkle with cilantro (if using).
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-15 minutes
Hot Honey Glazed Gizzards
Elevate your comfort food game with these crispy, flavorful gizzards smothered in a spicy-sweet hot honey glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards
– 1/4 cup hot honey (or hot sauce and honey mixed)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse gizzards under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together hot honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the gizzards in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the gizzards.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gizzard Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the tender goodness of gizzards with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken gizzards, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 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 skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add gizzards, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until the gizzards are browned.
4. Pour in coconut milk, stir well to combine, and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the gizzards are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sichuan-Style Spicy Gizzards
This recipe brings the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine to your kitchen, with crispy fried gizzards tossed in a spicy sauce that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the gizzards into bite-sized pieces and marinate in a mixture of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, garlic, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the gizzards and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, and 1 tablespoon of water. Pour into the wok and stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Gizzard Bites with Blue Cheese Dip
Elevate your snack game with these crispy Buffalo chicken gizzards served with a creamy blue cheese dip. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Blue cheese crumbles (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each gizzard in the flour mixture, then in melted butter, and finally in Frank’s RedHot sauce, coating evenly.
4. Place coated gizzards on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
5. Meanwhile, combine blue cheese crumbles and sour cream in a bowl.
6. Serve baked gizzard bites with blue cheese dip. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gizzard Tacos with Spicy Slaw
Gizzard Tacos with Spicy Slaw Recipe
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this bold and flavorful recipe featuring crispy gizzards, tangy slaw, and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken gizzards
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 8 corn tortillas
- Spicy Slaw ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
- Bake gizzards at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
- In a separate pan, heat lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the cooked gizzards and stir to coat.
- Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
- Assemble tacos with the gizzard mixture, Spicy Slaw (see below), and any additional toppings you like.
Spicy Slaw:
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Thai Basil Gizzard Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy stir-fry recipe that combines crispy gizzards, aromatic basil, and spicy chilies. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb gizzards, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Thai basil leaves
– 2 bird’s eye chilies, sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add gizzards and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add Thai basil leaves and chilies; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return gizzards to the pan and add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chipotle Lime Gizzard Kebabs
Add a bold twist to traditional skewers with these smoky chipotle lime gizzard kebabs. The combination of juicy chicken gizzards, zesty lime juice, and spicy chipotle peppers will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken gizzards to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated gizzards onto skewers (if using).
5. Brush with olive oil and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gizzard Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage
This hearty one-pot dish combines the rich flavors of Andouille sausage, chicken gizzards, and traditional jambalaya spices for a mouthwatering Cajun-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken gizzards
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add gizzards; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
6. Add rice, tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Gizzard Gumbo
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty Spicy Gizzard Gumbo recipe, packed with tender gizzards, spicy sausage, and rich, dark roux.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb gizzards, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or boudin), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup dark roux (see note)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Hot sauce (such as Tabasco), to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the gizzards over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add sausage to pot; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add onions, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 8 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, roux, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
5. Return gizzards and sausage to pot; season with hot sauce to taste. Serve over rice.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Harissa-Marinated Grilled Gizzards
This recipe brings the bold flavors of North Africa to your grill, with tender and juicy gizzards infused with the warmth of harissa. Perfect for a unique twist on backyard BBQs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons harissa
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, harissa, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken gizzards to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove gizzards from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill gizzards for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gizzard Ramen with Spicy Broth
A hearty and flavorful bowl of goodness that combines the rich flavors of gizzard, spicy broth, and springy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken gizzards, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add gizzard and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, water, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and gochujang. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble bowls by placing cooked gizzard mixture into the bottom, followed by noodles and garnishing with scallions (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gizzard Po’ Boy with Spicy Remoulade
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of New Orleans with this mouthwatering sandwich, featuring crispy fried gizzards and a spicy kick from the remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 crusty French baguettes, sliced
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional)
– Spicy Remoulade Sauce:
+ 1 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season gizzards with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Fry gizzards in hot oil until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble Po’ Boys by spreading Spicy Remoulade Sauce on the baguette slices, topping with fried gizzards, lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to level up your cooking game with these 18 bold and spicy gizzard recipes! From classic Southern flavors to international twists, these mouth-watering dishes will tantalize your taste buds. Discover new ways to prepare gizzards with recipes like Spicy Fried Chicken Gizzards, Korean Spicy Braised Gizzards, and Harissa-Marinated Grilled Gizzards. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy stir-fry or a hearty gumbo, there’s something for everyone in this collection of fiery gizzard recipes.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
