Low-Fat Grilled Chicken Gizzards

Chicken gizzards are tender, crispy, and just the right texture, making them a delightful treat. They can be prepared in various ways such as frying, stir-frying, or braising, each method offering a unique flavor. Today, I want to introduce you to low-fat grilled chicken gizzards, where each bite is chewy and flavorful, perfect for those looking to trim down.

You might be unfamiliar with chicken gizzards, wondering what they are exactly. However, they are actually quite common in cuisines worldwide. In Southeast Asia, Mexico, Africa, and beyond, you'll find them prepared in diverse culinary styles. Some people may find chicken gizzards off-putting due to their appearance or concerns about health. Let's dispel these doubts together!

1.What are chicken gizzards?

Chicken gizzards are the muscular stomachs of chickens, also known as the ventriculus or gastric mill. They are part of the chicken's digestive system. Since chickens lack teeth, they rely on gizzards to grind food, including small stones they swallow to aid digestion. Chicken gizzards are an essential part of the bird and are commonly consumed as a nutritious food item.

2.Are chicken gizzards healthy?

Chicken gizzards contain various nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and protein. Incorporating cooked chicken gizzards into your diet in moderation can provide essential nutrients and contribute to overall health.

However, it's important to note that chicken gizzards also contain calories. Consuming excessive amounts of gizzards over a prolonged period can lead to weight gain due to the excess calorie intake.

Additionally, individuals with allergies to chicken gizzards should avoid consuming them to prevent allergic reactions such as itching, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms of allergies.

3.How to prepare fresh chicken gizzards?

When you bring home fresh chicken gizzards, rinse them under running water to remove any surface fat or impurities. Use a knife to cut the gizzards in half and then open them by hand. Rinse the gizzards thoroughly under running water to remove any undigested food particles, small stones, or other debris that may be inside. Next, use your hands to peel off the thick yellow membrane lining the inside of the gizzards. Rinse them again under running water until they are completely clean inside and out.

4.How to store chicken gizzards?

Freshly purchased chicken gizzards should not be stored for an extended period and are best consumed within 2 days. If you need to store chicken gizzards for a longer period, clean them thoroughly by scraping and rinsing, then parboil them in a pot of water until they are almost cooked through. Remove them from the water, cool them in cold water, drain excess water, and wrap them in small packages using plastic wrap. Store the wrapped gizzards in the freezer compartment of your refrigerator. When you're ready to use them, thaw them naturally before cooking.

5.How to Cut Chicken Gizzards for Even Cooking?

To ensure chicken gizzards cook more evenly, start by thoroughly cleaning them. Then, cut them in half and proceed as follows: make evenly spaced vertical cuts from left to right, ensuring they are parallel but not cutting all the way through. Next, rotate the gizzards 90 degrees and make another set of vertical cuts perpendicular to the first, creating a simple crosshatch pattern. There's no specific order for cutting; just ensure the cuts are perpendicular, evenly spaced, and not too deep to avoid cutting through completely.

Making homemade grilled chicken gizzards is easy and yields delicious results. They can be served as appetizers or enjoyed as snacks, making them perfect for any occasion. Learning the grilling method allows you to showcase your culinary skills and treat your family to a tasty homemade dish!