These Air Fryer Chicken livers offer a mouthwatering Southern treat that can be enjoyed at any time. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, this air-fried recipe gives a flavorful and healthy twist to the traditional deep-fried version. Let’s dive into the yummy world of air-fried chicken livers!
Fried food holds a special place in many cuisines, particularly in the Southern United States. However, with the advent of air fryers, we are witnessing a delightful transformation of once traditionally stove-deep-fried dishes. This shift brings us the benefits of using less oil, experiencing less mess, and enjoying healthier cooking.
Ingredients Needed for this Recipe
- Fresh chicken livers – These can be easily found in the meat section of most grocery stores, usually packaged in small plastic containers and sold by the pound.
- Buttermilk – This ingredient is used to brine and tenderize the chicken livers while eliminating any impurities.
- Hot sauce – Adds a flavorful kick to the brine.
- All-purpose flour – Perfect for coating the livers before frying.
- Seasoning – This recipe employs a blend of creole and Italian seasoning, but feel free to experiment with your own mix.
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken Livers
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, commence by washing the chicken livers in a large bowl. Cut them into equal-sized pieces and then cover them with water, allowing them to sit for 10 minutes. Rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures the removal of any excess blood before frying.
Remember to clean and sanitize your sink after handling the livers.
Next, prepare the brine by combining buttermilk and hot sauce in a container. Add the chicken livers and let them rest in the buttermilk brine in the fridge for at least an hour.
Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. In a shallow bowl, mix flour, creole seasoning, and Italian seasoning. Remove the chicken livers from the buttermilk brine, shaking off any excess buttermilk, and coat them with the flour mixture, making sure to cover all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
Grease the air fryer basket with a little oil and place the floured livers in a single layer. Close the air fryer basket (avoid spraying the top of the livers at this point) and cook for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, open the basket and spray the chicken livers with oil. Flip them and spray again, ensuring that all the floured spots are coated with oil. Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the livers are cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once done, remove the fried chicken livers from the air fryer basket, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve.
What to Serve Chicken Livers With?
These fried chicken livers are simply delectable on their own, but you can enhance the experience by serving them with additional hot sauce, dipped in ranch dressing, or cocktail sauce. They are best enjoyed as an appetizer or a snack.
You can also pair them with sautéed onions, a salad, or any of your favorite Southern sides.
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
These chicken livers are at their best when served hot and fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can reheat them in the air fryer by placing them in the basket and air frying at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes until they are heated through.
Are Chicken Livers Good for You?
Absolutely! Chicken livers are not only delicious but also provide a great source of protein and iron. They are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as folate. Hence, air-fried chicken livers offer both scrumptiousness and nutrition.
Should I Use Oil in the Air Fryer?
Certainly! Although only a small amount is required for this recipe, oil plays a crucial role in providing a browned, flavorful coating to the livers. You can use a spray bottle filled with high-heat oil, such as olive oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil. Failure to spray the livers with oil may result in a dry and floury breading.
Notes on Air-Fried Chicken Livers
- It is essential to ensure that the chicken livers are thoroughly cooked. Use a quick-read thermometer to verify that they have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- These air-fried chicken livers are best enjoyed immediately for maximum crispiness.
- Cutting the chicken livers into equal pieces ensures even cooking.
I hope you relish this delightful fried chicken livers recipe as much as I do. For more Southern appetizers, give these a try:
- Southern Fried Okra
- Air Fryer Squash
- BBQ Chicken Wings
Now it’s time to indulge in the crunchy delight of air-fried chicken livers. Enjoy!