Enjoy crispy, golden Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe with intense flavor and easy preparation for a classic comfort meal any night of the week.
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Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Golden, crispy on the outside and lusciously tender inside—this Southern Fried Chicken Livers recipe is comfort food at its finest. Whether it’s your first taste or a nostalgic favorite, these bites will win your heart.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken livers, cleaned and trimmed
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp. hot sauce (optional)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- ½ tsp. cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Clean the Livers Rinse gently and remove any sinew or connective tissue. For milder flavor, soak them briefly in salted water.
- Soak in Buttermilk Combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add livers and chill for 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you’ve got time).
- Mix the Flour Coating In a bowl, whisk flour with all your spices until well blended.
- Dredge the Livers Lift livers from buttermilk, shake off excess, and coat them well in seasoned flour.
- Heat the OilFill a heavy skillet with 2 inches of oil. Bring to 350°F. A kitchen thermometer keeps you spot on.
- Fry in BatchesFry 3–4 livers at a time to avoid soggy results. Each batch needs about 6–8 minutes total.
- Drain and RestTransfer to a wire rack over paper towels. Let rest 5 minutes for optimal crisp.
- Serve Hot Enjoy Immediately with sides and dips of your choice.
Notes
- Longer marinating – more tender lovers.
- Don’t skip the thermometer—oil temp is everything.
- Like heat? Boost cayenne for a spicy kick
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Cuisine: Southern, American
The Forgotten Classic That Deserves a Comeback
Southern cooking isn’t just about what’s on your plate—it’s about stories passed from one generation to the next. And tucked within those stories is a dish that deserves more love: fried chicken livers.
Now before you scrunch up your nose, hear me out. I once thought the same—until I spent a summer with my Grandma Ella down in Jackson, Mississippi. Every Saturday, she’d hum gospel hymns while her cast iron skillet sizzled on the stove. When the smell of seasoned flour and chicken livers hit the air, the whole house came alive. I remember sneaking a piece before dinner and getting caught—but it was worth every crunchy, creamy bite.
Back then, no one blinked at the idea of eating livers. They were hearty, affordable, and delicious. Fast forward to today, and this once-common dish feels like a culinary relic. But things are shifting—organ meats are back on trend, with chefs and home cooks rediscovering their flavor and nutrition punch. A 2023 article in Bon Appétit even called chicken livers “the comeback kid of soul food.” This isn’t just a recipe—it’s a soulful revival. Let’s bring the crispy glory of Southern Fried Chicken Livers back to your table
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
Estimates only. Actual values depend on ingredients used
How Long to Cook Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe
- Total cook time: about 6–8 minutes. Each side should be golden and crispy. Internal temp? 165°F.
What to Serve With Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe
These sides complete the Southern feast:
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Mac & cheese
- Pickled veggies
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Tangy coleslaw
Hot honey over a biscuit = chef’s kiss.
How to Reheat Southern Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe
Best method: oven!
- Preheat to 375°F.
- Place on wire rack.
- Bake 10–12 minutes.
Avoid microwaving—it turns them soggy.
How to Freeze Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe
- Cool completely.
- Flash freeze in a single layer.
- Transfer to freezer bags. Good for 2 months
Recommended Tools:
- Cast Iron Skillet on Amazon
- Buttermilk Powder
- Digital Cooking Thermometer
FAQs
Can I make this in an air fryer?
- Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes. Flip halfway.
Are chicken livers healthy?
- Yes! They’re rich in iron, B12, and vitamin A. Just enjoy moderately.
Can I substitute beef or pork liver?
- You can, but they’re more intense in flavor. Chicken livers are milder and creamier