Air-Fryer Chicken Livers: A Healthy, Quick Treat?

Chicken livers are a divisive dish, but for fans of this offal, cooking them in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare them. This method of cooking can deliver a crispy exterior and a moist, tender interior, without the need for deep-frying in oil.

How to prepare chicken livers before cooking

Chicken livers are a great source of iron and vitamin B. They can be cooked in an air fryer, but how do you prepare them before cooking?

Firstly, it is important to note that you should not wash chicken livers before cooking. However, you should pat them dry with paper towels. You can also trim off any excess fat or connective tissue.

Some people like to soak chicken livers in milk for a few hours before cooking to help tenderize them and reduce any bitter or metallic taste. This is not necessary, but it can be a good idea if you prefer a milder flavour. If you do choose to soak them, make sure to pat them dry again before cooking.

Next, you can season the chicken livers with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you like. You can also coat them in flour or breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.

Finally, you can cook the chicken livers in the air fryer at around 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes, depending on the size of the livers and the desired level of doneness. Make sure to flip them over halfway through cooking and spray with olive oil to ensure even cooking and browning.

Now you know how to prepare chicken livers before cooking!

Marinating chicken livers for flavour

Chicken livers have a strong flavour that can be a little bitter or metallic. Marinating them in a blend of seasonings and ingredients like soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and yoghurt can help to tenderise the meat and mellow out its flavour.

• Marinade ingredients: A simple marinade can be made by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Alternatively, you can use vegetable oil, lime juice, or orange juice. You can also add seasonings like kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. For a more complex flavour profile, consider including Greek yoghurt, paprika, and a pinch of garlic powder.
• Marinating process: Place the chicken livers in a zip lock bag or a container. Add the desired marinade ingredients, ensuring that the livers are completely covered. Seal the bag or container and store it in the fridge for 12 to 24 hours. For optimal results, prepare the marinade the night before cooking.
• Cooking process: After marinating, heat a skillet or pan with some lard or coconut oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken livers for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also use an air fryer to cook the marinated chicken livers, following similar instructions as you would for a skillet or pan.
• Serving suggestions: While the chicken livers are cooking, prepare some side dishes such as boiled eggs, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or mushrooms. You can also serve the livers with gravy or dressing.
• Storage and reheating: Store leftover chicken livers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the livers on a baking sheet in the oven at 325°F for 5 to 10 minutes.

Coating chicken livers for a crispy texture

To get a crispy texture on your chicken livers, coating them before air frying is essential. Here are some tips and tricks for achieving that perfect, crunchy coating:

Dry Ingredients:

Start with a combination of dry ingredients to create a crispy exterior. A common mixture includes all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add in other spices and herbs such as sage, chilli powder or paprika for extra flavour. Mix these ingredients together in a small bowl.

Wet Ingredients:

Prepare a separate bowl with wet ingredients that will help the dry coating adhere to the livers. A combination of milk and egg works well for this. You can use regular milk, or a milk alternative such as almond milk, heavy cream, or half-and-half. Whisk the milk and egg together until well combined.

Breading Process:

Now you're ready to start coating your chicken livers! First, dip the livers in the wet mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Then, dredge them in the dry mixture, gently shaking off any excess. Place the coated livers on a tray or plate.

Oil Spray:

For an even crispier texture, lightly spray the coated livers with olive oil or another cooking oil spray. This step is optional but will help ensure an extra crunchy exterior.

Cooking:

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, typically around 390-400°F (200°C). Place the coated livers in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they are in a single layer with space between each piece for even cooking.

Cook for around 10-12 minutes, flipping the livers halfway through the cooking process. The livers are done when they are cooked through, no longer pink in the centre, and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving:

Air fryer chicken livers are best served hot and fresh, as the breading may soften over time. Enjoy your crispy chicken livers as an appetizer or main course, paired with your favourite dipping sauces and sides!

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for air fryer chicken livers will vary depending on the size and thickness of the livers, as well as your personal preference for doneness. As a general guideline, aim to cook the livers for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating that the livers are safe to eat.

When cooking chicken livers in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that they are not overcrowded in the basket or tray. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer and the quantity of livers, you may need to cook them in batches.

Some recipes suggest preheating your air fryer to 380-400°F (190-200°C) before adding the livers, while others recommend a lower temperature of 375°F (190°C). It is always a good idea to refer to your air fryer's instructions for specific guidelines on temperature and cooking time.

The cooking time may also depend on your preferred level of crispiness. For a crispy exterior, cook the livers for a longer duration, but be careful not to overcook them. It is important to keep an eye on the livers during the cooking process to prevent overcooking and ensure your desired level of doneness.

What to serve chicken livers with

Chicken livers are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for what to serve with air-fried chicken livers:

On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes

This is a classic way to serve chicken livers, as shown in a traditional Romanian recipe. The creamy mashed potatoes provide a soft and delicate base for the chicken livers, balancing the dish's overall texture.

With a Side of Roasted Vegetables or Salad

For a healthier option, serve your air-fried chicken livers with roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or coleslaw. If you're looking for something lighter, a salad with red wine vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish.

As an Appetizer or Snack

Chicken livers can be served as bite-sized appetizers or snacks. Try coating them in breading and deep-frying for a crispy, crunchy texture.

With a Creamy Mushroom Sauce

For a decadent option, pair your air-fried chicken livers with a creamy mushroom sauce. This sauce can be made with butter, flour, chicken broth, and soy sauce, and is the perfect complement to the livers.

On Toast for Breakfast

Yes, chicken livers can be enjoyed for breakfast too! Serve them on a slice of toast for a protein-packed start to your day.

With Gravy or Dressing

Chicken livers can be served as a main dish with gravy or dressing. This option provides a hearty and comforting meal.

With Instant Pot Cherry Tomato Sauce, Homemade BBQ Sauce, or Buffalo Sauce

If you're looking for something a little different, try serving your chicken livers with one of these sauces. These sauces will add a unique flavor profile to the dish and can be a great way to impress your guests.

No matter which way you choose to serve them, air-fried chicken livers are a delicious and healthy option that can be prepared in just minutes.

Frequently asked questions