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crisp and golden brown Chicken Livers

Crispy Southern-Style Fried Chicken Livers

These crispy Southern-style fried chicken livers are packed with flavor, featuring a golden, crunchy coating and a tender, juicy center. Marinated in buttermilk, seasoned with a blend of spices, and fried to perfection, this classic Southern dish is a budget-friendly, protein-rich comfort food that’s easy to make at home!

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Livers:

  • 1 lb chicken livers (trimmed and rinsed)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (for soaking)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Seasoned Coating:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornmeal (for extra crispiness)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Frying:

  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Livers

  1. Rinse chicken livers under cold water and trim any excess fat.
  2. Place the livers in a bowl with buttermilk, salt, and black pepper. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

  1. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and milk until smooth.

Step 3: Coat the Livers

  1. Remove the livers from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off.
  2. Dip each liver into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  3. Dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick coating.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Livers

  1. Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the livers in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Let the fried chicken livers rest for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Serve with hot sauce, honey mustard, or creamy ranch dressing for dipping!

Notes

✔ For extra crispiness, double-dip the livers by repeating the flour-coating step.
✔ Soaking in buttermilk reduces bitterness and enhances tenderness.
✔ Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
✔ If you prefer baked chicken livers, cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.

  • Author: L. L. Sofia
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: ½ cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 290mg