{"id":8677,"date":"2025-02-28T00:37:26","date_gmt":"2025-02-28T00:37:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/?p=8677"},"modified":"2025-02-28T00:37:27","modified_gmt":"2025-02-28T00:37:27","slug":"why-you-should-be-eating-chicken-gizzards","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/why-you-should-be-eating-chicken-gizzards\/","title":{"rendered":"Why you should be eating chicken gizzards"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>Chicken gizzards might just be the best-kept secret in the food world.\n\n\n\n<p><strong>They\u2019re packed with nutrients, insanely affordable, and ridiculously delicious when prepared right. Yet, so many people ignore them just because they fall under the category of \u201coffal\u201d\u2014a term that unfairly makes them sound unappetizing.\n\n\n\n<h3 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-what-even-is-a-chicken-gizzard\"'><strong>What Even Is a Chicken Gizzard?\n\n\n\n<p>Think of the gizzard as the bird\u2019s natural food processor. Birds don\u2019t have teeth, so instead of chewing, their food moves through the crop (a storage pouch) and then into the gizzard, which acts as a super-strong grinder. Thanks to its thick, muscular walls, it pulverizes seeds and grains, making digestion possible.\n\n\n\n</p><p>The result? A lean, flavorful cut of meat with a dense, chewy texture that becomes incredibly tender when cooked the right way.\n\n\n\n</p><h3 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-why-you-should-eat-chicken-gizzards\"'><strong>Why You Should Eat Chicken Gizzards\n\n\n\n<h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-1-they-re-a-protein-powerhouse\"'><strong>1. They\u2019re a Protein Powerhouse\n\n\n\n<p>Gizzards are loaded with protein\u2014around<a href="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/www.livestrong.com%5C/article%5C/508188-the-health-benefits-of-gizzards%5C/%5C%22" target='\"_blank\"' rel='\"noreferrer' noopener>&nbsp;20 grams per 3-ounce serving. Whether you\u2019re a gym rat, an athlete, or just trying to build muscle, they\u2019re a fantastic (and cheap!) protein source.\n\n\n\n<h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-2-low-in-fat-high-in-gains\"'><strong>2. Low in Fat, High in Gains\n\n\n\n<p>Unlike some other meats, chicken gizzards are super lean, containing less than 3 grams of fat per serving. This makes them a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake or aiming for a heart-healthy diet.\n\n\n\n</p><h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-3-packed-with-essential-vitamins\"'><strong>3. Packed With Essential Vitamins\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Vitamin B12:&nbsp;Essential for nerve function, red blood cell production, and energy levels.\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Niacin:&nbsp;Boosts metabolism, improves skin health, and supports heart health.\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Choline:&nbsp;Crucial for brain health, liver function, and fetal development during pregnancy.\n\n\n\n\n<h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-4-rich-in-iron-and-minerals\"'><strong>4. Rich in Iron and Minerals\n\n\n\n<p>Iron helps prevent anemia and keeps your energy levels up, while selenium and zinc support your immune system and promote healing. If you\u2019re prone to iron deficiency, gizzards can be a game-changer. Gizzards are also a good source of vitamin C, riboflavin, magnesium, copper and manganese.\n\n\n\n</p><h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-5-they-re-crazy-cheap\"'><strong>5. They\u2019re Crazy Cheap\n\n\n\n<p>In a world where meat prices are skyrocketing, chicken gizzards remain one of the most budget-friendly protein sources out there. You can often grab a pound for just a few bucks\u2014making them perfect for families, meal preppers, or anyone looking to save money without sacrificing nutrition.\n\n\n\n</p><h3 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-how-to-cook-chicken-gizzards-without-screwing-them-up\"'><strong>How to Cook Chicken Gizzards (Without Screwing Them Up)\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve never cooked gizzards before, don\u2019t worry. They\u2019re incredibly versatile, and with the right technique, they turn out&nbsp;<em>chef\u2019s kiss&nbsp;delicious.\n\n\n\n<h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-1-boil-amp-stew-for-ultimate-tenderness\"'><strong>1. Boil &amp; Stew for Ultimate Tenderness\n\n\n\n<p>Gizzards can be tough, but a slow simmer makes them melt-in-your-mouth tender. Boil them for 30-45 minutes with salt, garlic, and spices, then toss them into soups or stews.\n\n\n\n</p><h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-2-deep-fry-for-crispy-goodness\"'><strong>2. Deep-Fry for Crispy Goodness\n\n\n\n<p>Want something crunchy? Coat gizzards in seasoned flour, fry until golden brown, and dip them in your favorite sauce. They\u2019re basically the ultimate bar snack.\n\n\n\n</p><h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-3-saute-or-stir-fry-for-quick-amp-easy-flavor\"'><strong>3. Saut\u00e9 or Stir-Fry for Quick &amp; Easy Flavor\n\n\n\n<p>Slice boiled gizzards and toss them in a hot pan with onions, bell peppers, and spices. The result? A high-protein stir-fry that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.\n\n\n\n</p><h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-4-grill-for-smoky-perfection\"'><strong>4. Grill for Smoky Perfection\n\n\n\n<p>Marinate gizzards in soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar, then grill them to smoky, charred perfection. Serve with grilled veggies or a dipping sauce.\n\n\n\n</p><h4 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-5-slow-cook-for-fall-apart-tenderness\"'><strong>5. Slow-Cook for Fall-Apart Tenderness\n\n\n\n<p>Throw gizzards in a slow cooker with broth, herbs, and veggies, and let them do their thing for a few hours. The longer they cook, the softer they get.\n\n\n\n</p><h3 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-must-try-gizzard-recipes\"'><strong>Must-Try Gizzard Recipes\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Gizzard Adobo:&nbsp;A Filipino favorite\u2014simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic for a tangy, savory dish.\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Spicy Stir-Fried Gizzards:&nbsp;Tossed in chili sauce with veggies for a kick of heat.\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gizzard Soup:&nbsp;A hearty, comforting broth loaded with tender gizzards and root vegetables.\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gizzard Tacos:&nbsp;Crispy, spicy gizzards stuffed in warm tortillas with salsa and lime.\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Gizzard Salad:&nbsp;A protein-packed salad with greens, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing.\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-the-only-drawback-the-texture-but-you-can-fix-that\"'><strong>The Only Drawback? The Texture (But You Can Fix That!)\n\n\n\n<p>Not gonna lie\u2014if you\u2019re new to gizzards, the chewy texture might take some getting used to. But if you cook them properly (boil first, then crisp up or stew), they become tender and juicy.\n\n\n\n</p><p>Also, like with anything, moderation is key. Gizzards contain cholesterol, so if you\u2019re on a strict low-cholesterol diet, you might want to enjoy them in moderation.\n\n\n\n</p><h3 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-are-there-any-risks\"'>Are There Any Risks?\n\n\n\n</h3><p>Few studies have been conducted on gizzards in particular. As&nbsp;<a href="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/www.medicalnewstoday.com%5C/articles%5C/319229.php%5C%22" target='\"_blank\"' rel='\"noreferrer' noopener>Medical News Today&nbsp;notes, some organ meats are high in saturated fat. If your cholesterol levels are above normal, enjoy these foods in moderation. Gizzards, though, have \u200cless than one gram of saturated fat per serving\u200c, so they\u2019re unlikely to affect blood cholesterol levels or cardiovascular health.\n\n\n\n<p>Researchers also point out that \u200corgan meats contain&nbsp;<a href="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/www.arthritis.org%5C/about-arthritis%5C/types%5C/gout%5C/articles%5C/best-and-worst-gout-foods-9.php%5C%22" target='\"_blank\"' rel='\"noreferrer' noopener>purines\u200c&nbsp;and should be avoided by people with gout. These organic compounds raise uric acid levels and may trigger gout attacks.\n\n\n\n<p>If you think you\u2019re eating too much chicken, including gizzards, consider switching to \u200corganic brands.\u200c Farmers often use antibiotics to prevent disease in chickens. A diet rich in poultry may promote the development of drug-resistant bacteria, which claim more than 23,000 lives in the United States each year, according to&nbsp;<a href="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/www.theguardian.com%5C/lifeandstyle%5C/2017%5C/oct%5C/13%5C/can-never-eat-chicken-again-antibiotic-resistance%5C%22" target='\"_blank\"' rel='\"noreferrer' noopener>The Guardian. The only way to mitigate these risks is to go organic.\n\n\n\n<h3 class='\"wp-block-heading\"' id='\"h-bottom-line-give-gizzards-a-chance\"'><strong>Bottom Line: Give Gizzards a Chance!\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a high-protein, nutrient-dense, and super affordable meat option, organic chicken gizzards are the way to go. They\u2019re easy to cook, incredibly versatile, and way too underrated.\n\n\n\n</p><p>Next time you\u2019re at the grocery store, pick up a pack and try one of these cooking methods. You might just discover your new favorite budget-friendly protein!\n\n\n\n</p><p><strong>Would you try chicken gizzards? Let us know in the comments!\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<div class='\"mh-excerpt\"'><p>Chicken gizzards might just be the best-kept secret in the food world. They\u2019re packed with nutrients, insanely affordable, and ridiculously delicious when prepared right. Yet, <a class='\"mh-excerpt-more\"' href="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/runeecho.com%5C/why-you-should-be-eating-chicken-gizzards%5C/%5C%22" title='\"Why' you should be eating chicken gizzards>[&hellip;]\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":8678,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8677"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8677"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8677\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8679,"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8677\/revisions\/8679"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8678"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8677"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8677"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/runeecho.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8677"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}</a></p></div></strong></p></strong></h3></a></p></a></p></a></p></strong></h3></strong></li></strong></li></strong></li></strong></li></strong></li></ul></strong></h3></strong></h4></strong></h4></strong></h4></strong></h4></strong></h4></em></p></strong></h3></strong></h4></strong></h4></strong></li></strong></li></strong></li></ul></strong></h4></strong></h4></a></p></strong></h4></strong></h3></strong></h3></strong></p></strong></p>