Crispy Fried Chicken Gizzards – Southern-Style Flavor and Crunch in Every Bite

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Crispy Fried Chicken Gizzards – Southern-Style Flavor and Crunch in Every Bite

Fried chicken gizzards are a classic soul food staple that deliver a deeply satisfying crunch on the outside with tender, flavorful meat inside. Whether you’re already a fan or curious to try something new, these golden-fried gizzards will quickly become a favorite snack or side dish. Perfectly seasoned, marinated in buttermilk, and fried to crispy perfection — this is Southern comfort food at its finest.

🍗 What Are Chicken Gizzards?

A chicken gizzard is a small, muscular part of a bird’s digestive tract. It’s firm and meaty, with a texture that, when cooked properly, becomes incredibly tender. They are rich in flavor, protein-packed, and very affordable — making them a favorite in Southern kitchens, street food stalls, and comfort food diners alike.

Fried gizzards are especially popular because of their contrast of texture: soft and juicy inside, crunchy on the outside.

🧾 Ingredients You Need for Fried Chicken Gizzards

To make crispy, flavorful fried gizzards, you’ll need:

  • 1 lb chicken gizzards, cleaned and trimmed
  • 2 cups buttermilk
    (or use 2 cups milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute)
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch (for added crispiness)
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Fried Gizzards

1. Clean and Prepare the Gizzards

Make sure the gizzards are cleaned and trimmed of excess fat or membranes. Rinse well under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Marinate in Buttermilk

Place the gizzards in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step tenderizes the gizzards and adds rich flavor.

🔥 Pro Tip: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce to the buttermilk for a spicy kick.

3. Make the Dredge Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • Flour
  • Cornstarch
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika
  • Cayenne pepper (if using)
  • Salt and pepper

This seasoned coating is what gives the gizzards their crispy, golden crust.

4. Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a deep heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer — enough for the gizzards to float. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.

5. Dredge the Gizzards

Remove the gizzards from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge them in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating.

For extra crispy results, repeat the dredging process:

  • Dip gizzards briefly back into buttermilk
  • Dredge again in flour mixture

6. Fry Until Golden

Fry the gizzards in batches — don’t overcrowd the pan — for 5–6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Let rest for 1–2 minutes. The centers will continue to cook and set while maintaining their juiciness.

🔥 Pro Tips for Crispy Fried Chicken Gizzards

  • Soak Long Enough: Buttermilk is essential for tenderizing. The longer you soak, the better the texture.
  • Use Cornstarch: Cornstarch in the dredge creates a light, crispy coating that fries up beautifully.
  • Double Dredge: For ultimate crunch, do a second dip in buttermilk and flour.
  • Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil between 350–365°F for consistent results.
  • Use a Wire Rack: Instead of paper towels alone, use a wire rack to drain excess oil and maintain crispness.

🍴 Serving Suggestions for Fried Gizzards

Fried chicken gizzards pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are a few serving ideas:

  • With Ranch or Hot Sauce – Classic dipping sauces that bring heat or creaminess
  • Over Rice – Serve with gravy or hot sauce for a filling Southern-style plate
  • With Fries or Slaw – Add a cool, crunchy slaw or crispy fries for balance
  • In a Po’ Boy Sandwich – Load into a baguette with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce

🧂 Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a bright finish.

🍽️ Variations and Flavor Boosts

Spicy Fried Gizzards

Add extra cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the flour or marinade.

Lemon Pepper Gizzards

After frying, toss gizzards with lemon zest and cracked pepper for a citrusy twist.

Garlic-Parmesan Gizzards

Toss hot gizzards in melted butter, garlic, and grated parmesan before serving.

🥶 Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
  • Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until crisp
  • Avoid microwave reheating — it softens the crust

❄️ Gizzards can also be frozen after frying. Let cool completely, then store in freezer bags. Reheat from frozen in an air fryer for best results.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Are chicken gizzards healthy?

Yes, gizzards are high in protein, iron, and essential nutrients. However, they are also high in cholesterol, so moderation is key.

Can I bake instead of fry?

While frying delivers the best texture, you can bake them at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray with oil for better crisping.

Do gizzards taste like liver?

No. Gizzards are meaty and firm, but they don’t have the metallic or gamey taste of liver. The flavor is mild and savory.

Final Thoughts: A Crispy, Southern Favorite Worth the Effort

Whether you grew up eating them or are trying them for the first time, fried chicken gizzards are a comfort food classic that delivers in every bite. With their crispy coating, tender interior, and savory depth, they are a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing dish that deserves a place at your table.

Try them once, and they just might become a permanent part of your appetizer or snack rotation.

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