Welcome to a delectable journey into cooking chicken hearts, a dish that might sound daunting but is unbelievably rewarding with its rich flavors and tender texture. Today, I’m going to guide you through making the best chicken hearts you’ve ever tasted—seasoned, cooked to perfection, and paired with sides that enhance every bite.

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: International
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following items ready:

Large frying pan
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups

These tools are essential for prepping and cooking chicken hearts to achieve the best results.

Ingredients

Here’s a table of all the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken hearts	500 grams
Olive oil	3 tablespoons
Onion, finely chopped	1 large
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Paprika	1 teaspoon
Dried oregano	1 teaspoon
Salt	To taste
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste
Fresh parsley, chopped	2 tablespoons

Did you know? Chicken hearts are packed with protein and B vitamins, making them not only tasty but also very nutritious.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken Hearts

Rinse the chicken heart under cold water and pat them dry.
Trim off any fat and cut each heart in half.
Season with salt and pepper.

Note: Ensuring the hearts are dry and well-seasoned is key to a good sear.

Step 2 – Cook the Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3 – Add the Chicken Hearts

Increase the heat to medium-high.
Add the chicken hearts to the pan and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned on all sides.

Warning: Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the hearts to steam rather than sear.

Step 4 – Season and Simmer

Sprinkle the paprika and oregano over the chicken hearts.
Stir well to coat evenly.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for another 10 minutes.

Fact: Paprika not only adds flavor but also a vibrant color to the dish, making it more appealing.

Additional Tips

If you find the flavor too intense, you can soften it by adding a splash of chicken broth during the simmering process.
For an extra kick, a pinch of chili flakes goes wonderfully with this dish.

Pairing Suggestions

Chicken hearts have a robust flavor, making them perfect for pairing with:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed rice
Crisp green salad

These sides will balance the dish’s richness and complete your meal.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	200 kcal
Protein	26 g
Fat	10 g
Carbohydrates	5 g
Cholesterol	250 mg
Sodium	70 mg

Approximation: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Dietary Information

This recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a low-carb, gluten-free option. To adapt it for a less cholesterol-rich diet, you might consider limiting the number of hearts or pairing them with a heart-healthy side dish.

FAQs about Chicken Hearts

What are the benefits of eating chicken hearts?

This recipe are rich in iron and B vitamins, making them an excellent choice for maintaining energy and overall health.

How do you ensure chicken hearts are tender?

Avoid overcooking the hearts, as they can become tough. Simmering on low heat after browning is the secret to tender chicken heart.

Can chicken hearts be grilled?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken heart are a popular dish in many cuisines. Just make sure to marinate them first to enhance their flavor and tenderness.

What are common mistakes when cooking chicken hearts?

One common mistake is not cleaning them properly or overcooking, which can make them rubbery.

How long can you store cooked chicken hearts?

Cooked chicken heart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in a covered container.

Are chicken hearts good for kids?

Yes, when cooked properly, they are a nutritious and fun way for kids to try different types of protein.

Do chicken hearts need to be marinated?

Marinating is not necessary but can be done to add extra flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken hearts might seem intimidating, but it’s truly straightforward once you get the hang of it. This recipe not only provides a hearty and satisfying dish but also introduces you to the joys of cooking offal, which is both economical and delicious. Give it a try and discover the rich flavors that chicken heart have to offer!