Print

Crispy Fried Chicken Livers with Spicy Buttermilk Marinade Recipe

4.8 from 145 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Fried Chicken Livers soaked in a spicy buttermilk marinade, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, then fried to golden perfection. This Southern-style appetizer or snack brings a delightfully crunchy exterior with tender, juicy livers inside, perfect for a savory treat or party platter.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade

  • 1 cup Buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup Hot Sauce

Dredge

  • 1 1/2 cups Flour
  • 2 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper
  • 3/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Paprika

Main Ingredient

  • 1 1/4 lb Chicken Livers
  • Several pounds of lard (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Stir well until thoroughly mixed and set aside.
  2. Prepare dredge mix: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Set aside.
  3. Prepare chicken livers: Drain the chicken livers from packaging liquid and rinse them gently in lukewarm water to clean. Pat dry with paper towels.
  4. Marinate livers: Add the cleaned chicken livers to the buttermilk and hot sauce marinade. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and absorb flavor.
  5. Heat oil: In a small Dutch oven, place several pounds of lard and heat it to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the proper temperature for frying.
  6. Dredge livers: Remove each liver from the marinade and dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, turning to coat evenly. Place coated livers on a baking sheet to stage for frying.
  7. Fry livers: Fry the livers in batches in the hot lard for about 4 minutes per batch, turning them halfway through (after approximately 2 minutes) to ensure even cooking and browning.
  8. Manage oil temperature: Allow the oil temperature to recover between batches to maintain consistent frying heat and optimal crispness.
  9. Drain and serve: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried chicken livers to a pan fitted with a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh chicken livers for the best taste and texture.
  • Ensure the oil temperature stays around 375°F for crispy and non-greasy coating.
  • Frying in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures even cooking.
  • Drain well on wire racks to keep the crust crisp.
  • Hot sauce in the marinade adds a mild spice—adjust quantity to preference.

Keywords: fried chicken livers, buttermilk marinade, southern appetizer, crispy chicken livers, spicy fried chicken livers