Go Back
Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Livers with Dipping Sauce

Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe

Amelia
Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor! Try this Southern Fried Chicken Livers Recipe for a delicious, easy-to-make Southern classic.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Southern
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fresh chicken livers trimmed and rinsed
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Livers

  • Rinse the chicken livers under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels.
  • Trim any excess fat or connective tissue for a cleaner texture.
  • In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Soak the chicken livers in the mixture for at least 10 minutes (or up to 1 hour for extra tenderness).

Step 2: Coat the Chicken Livers

  • In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  • Remove the livers from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
  • Dredge each liver in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken Livers

  • Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
  • Carefully add the coated livers in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
  • Fry for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Transfer fried livers to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve hot with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy remoulade.
  • Pair with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits for a classic Southern meal.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor.
  • Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Livers
  • Soaking in buttermilk tenderizes the livers and reduces any strong flavor.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for a crispy texture.
  • Let coated livers rest for 5 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
  • For extra crunch, double-coat by dipping in buttermilk again before re-dredging in the flour mixture.
  • Enjoy your Southern Fried Chicken Livers with friends and family, and savor the crispy, flavorful bite of this classic Southern delicacy!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 410mg
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
Keyword Southern Fried Chicken Livers