When it comes to cooking with poultry livers, many of us may be intimidated by their rich, buttery flavor and slightly firmer texture compared to other organs. However, when prepared correctly, chicken liver can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, from classic pâtés to bold stir-fries. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering chicken liver recipes that will take your cooking to the next level.
From hearty stews and braises to elegant appetizers and main courses, these savory chicken liver recipes offer something for every occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to spice up your mealtime routine, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of tasty and creative dishes.
Classic Chicken Liver Pâté with Herbs
Elevate your appetizers or sandwiches with this rich and flavorful pâté, made with tender chicken livers, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chives, or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken livers under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cognac (if using), flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken livers and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and lightly browned, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Remove from heat, let cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
6. Transfer the pâté to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Crispy Fried Chicken Livers with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your snack game with this mouth-watering combination of crispy fried chicken livers and creamy spicy aioli. Perfect for a quick indulgence or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce, 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken liver piece into the buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry livers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Meanwhile, mix together Spicy Aioli ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve fried chicken livers hot with Spicy Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Liver and Onion Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the rich flavor of chicken liver with the sweetness of caramelized onions, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this flavorful stir-fry in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken livers, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken livers and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the chicken livers to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Liver Skewers
Elevate your skewer game with this delectable combination of succulent chicken liver, aromatic garlic butter, and crispy veggies. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken livers
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken livers, garlic, butter, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Alternate threading chicken liver mixture with bell pepper and onion pieces onto skewers.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chicken Liver Mousse with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and tangy mousse, featuring the savory flavors of chicken liver and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree chicken livers until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Blend until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the mousse onto a serving platter or individual plates.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top of each serving.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: None (no cooking required)
– Total time: 15 minutes
Spicy Chicken Liver Curry with Coconut Milk
This aromatic curry is a flavorful twist on traditional chicken liver dishes, infused with the richness of coconut milk and a kick of heat. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their mealtime routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken livers
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add chicken livers, cumin, curry powder, and chili flakes; cook 5 minutes or until livers are browned.
4. Pour in coconut milk; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
8. Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Chicken Liver and Mushroom Risotto
A rich and savory Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of chicken liver, mushrooms, and creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup cooked and diced chicken liver
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add warmed chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in cooked chicken liver, white wine (if using), butter, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken Liver with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilled chicken liver game with this flavorful Argentine-inspired dish, featuring a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken livers, rinsed and patted dry
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken livers.
4. Grill the liver for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Once the liver is cooked, brush with the chimichurri sauce (vinegar mixture).
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Liver Tacos with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the rich flavor of chicken livers with the creaminess of avocado crema, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new and exciting!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the chicken livers to the skillet; cook for 5-7 minutes or until browned and cooked through, breaking them up with a spoon as they cook.
3. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Combine the avocado flesh with lime juice and salt; mix until smooth. Use as a topping for your tacos!
Chicken Liver and Bacon Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the creamy richness of chicken liver with the smoky sweetness of bacon, all wrapped up in a satisfying serving of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pappardelle pasta
– 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken livers, sliced into thin strips
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add sliced chicken liver to the same pan and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
4. Add minced garlic and heavy cream to the pan, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, and chicken liver mixture in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Chicken Liver with Apples and Thyme
A sweet and savory twist on traditional liver dishes, this recipe combines the rich flavor of chicken liver with the natural sweetness of apples and the earthy warmth of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken livers
– 2 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey and butter until smooth.
3. Place chicken livers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the liver tops with the honey-butter mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around each liver.
5. Arrange apple slices on top of the livers, slightly overlapping.
6. Sprinkle thyme leaves over apples.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken livers are cooked through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Liver Adobo with Soy and Vinegar
This Filipino-inspired dish is a flavorful and savory take on traditional chicken liver adobo, elevated by the addition of soy sauce and vinegar. The result is a rich and tangy condiment perfect for serving alongside steamed rice or as a marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chicken livers, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the blended mixture and stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the adobo has thickened slightly.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chicken Liver and Spinach Salad with Warm Dressing
This salad combines the rich flavors of chicken liver with the earthy taste of spinach, all wrapped up in a warm and tangy dressing. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken liver, diced
– 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken liver over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the olive oil, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and paprika.
5. Combine the cooked chicken liver mixture with the fresh spinach leaves.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Liver Dumplings in Clear Broth
This comforting recipe combines the rich flavor of chicken liver with tender dumplings and a crystal-clear broth, perfect for a chilly evening. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups clear chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional)
– Dumpling wrappers (about 20-25 pieces)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add chopped liver, cooking until browned.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch. Gradually add to the pot, stirring to combine.
4. Bring broth to a simmer and add cooked liver mixture. Season with salt.
5. Prepare dumpling wrappers according to package instructions.
6. Cook dumplings in the hot broth for 8-10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve hot, garnished with soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Liver Pâté Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and savory treat. Chicken liver pâté pairs perfectly with earthy mushrooms, creating a harmonious flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup chicken liver pâté
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pâté, softened butter, and garlic.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the pâté mixture, filling to the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and pâté is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Liver and Caramelized Onion Tart
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and flavorful Chicken Liver and Caramelized Onion Tart. The combination of tender chicken livers, sweet caramelized onions, and flaky pastry will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 4 chicken livers, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken livers over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, caramelize onions in butter until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Roll out puff pastry to fit a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
6. Arrange cooked chicken livers and caramelized onions on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
7. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
8. Brush pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and season with salt, pepper, and honey.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Chicken Liver Stir-Fry with Ginger and Scallions
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to add some excitement to your weeknight meals. With the savory flavor of chicken liver, the spicy kick from ginger, and the crunch from scallions, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken livers, sliced into thin strips
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 scallions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken livers and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the grated ginger to the pan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the scallions, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Return the chicken livers to the pan and stir to combine with the ginger-scallion mixture. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Liver Bruschetta with Fig Jam
This sweet and savory bruschetta combines the richness of chicken liver pâté with the natural sweetness of fig jam, all atop toasted baguette slices. A perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package chicken liver pâté
– 1/2 cup fig jam
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toast the baguette slices for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Spread a layer of chicken liver pâté on each toasted baguette slice.
4. Top with a dollop of fig jam and sprinkle with thyme leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 18 savory chicken liver recipes, perfect for every occasion. From classic pâtés and crispy fried dishes to global-inspired curries and risottos, there’s something for everyone. Try making garlic butter skewers, spicy aioli, or caramelized livers with apples and thyme. For a twist on traditional pasta, try the chicken liver and bacon dish. Or, go international with adobo-style chicken livers or a warm spinach salad with chicken liver. Whether you’re cooking for one or many, these recipes will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
