Slow cooked BBQ chicken livers served on a plate with garnish

Savory Slow Cooked BBQ Chicken Livers

Name: Savory Slow Cooked BBQ Chicken Livers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500 g Chicken livers (fresh, high quality) - look for firm, glossy appearance with no strong odor; 120 ml BBQ sauce (choose a medium sweetness and tang for balance); 1 piece Yellow onion (medium-sized, to add sweetness and depth); 3 pieces Garlic cloves (fresh, not pre-minced for better flavor); 2 tbsp Olive oil (extra virgin for richer flavor); 1 tsp Smoked paprika (adds smoky BBQ flavor); 1/2 tsp Ground black pepper (freshly ground if possible); 1 tsp Salt (to taste, start with small amount); 100 ml Chicken broth or water (low sodium preferred)

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easy

2 hour

Nutritional value per serving

Calories210kcal

Carbs5gram

Fat11gram

Protein25gram

Ingredients

Quantity

Chicken livers (fresh, high quality) - look for firm, glossy appearance with no strong odor500 g
BBQ sauce (choose a medium sweetness and tang for balance)120 ml
Yellow onion (medium-sized, to add sweetness and depth)1 piece
Garlic cloves (fresh, not pre-minced for better flavor)3 pieces
Olive oil (extra virgin for richer flavor)2 tbsp
Smoked paprika (adds smoky BBQ flavor)1 tsp
Ground black pepper (freshly ground if possible)1/2 tsp
Salt (to taste, start with small amount)1 tsp
Chicken broth or water (low sodium preferred)100 ml

This recipe for slow cooked BBQ chicken livers offers a flavorful and tender way to enjoy chicken livers with a smoky, tangy BBQ twist. Using common ingredients and a slow cooker or a simmering pot, you can prepare this dish with minimal effort while ensuring food safety. The total estimated cost for ingredients is approximately $8 USD / €7.5 / £6 / ₹600, suitable for 4 servings and beginner-friendly. Each serving contains about 210 kcal, making it a moderately low-calorie option rich in protein and iron. The cooking time fits well into a busy schedule with about 2.5 hours of slow cooking and minimal prep.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the ingredients

1Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Rinse the chicken livers under cold running water, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps reduce any strong odors and ensures better texture.

Brown the chicken livers

2Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chicken livers and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a light brown crust. This step locks in flavor and improves texture.

Add onion and garlic

3Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan with the livers. Stir and cook for 3 minutes until onions are softened and fragrant.

Combine ingredients in slow cooker or pot

4Transfer the browned livers, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot. Add BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, chicken broth or water, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Slow cook the livers

5Set the slow cooker to low heat, cover, and cook for 2 hours. If using a pot on the stovetop, simmer gently on very low heat with the lid on for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir once halfway through to prevent sticking.

Check doneness and internal temperature

6Chicken livers are fully cooked when tender throughout and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check safety. The livers should not be tough or grainy.

Serve and enjoy

7Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm ideally over rice, toast, or alongside salad for a hearty meal.

Cooking Tips

-Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken livers to prevent cross-contamination.

-Do not rinse cooked chicken livers; store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.

-For a spicier BBQ flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder during cooking.

-Make sure to pat dry the livers before browning to avoid excess liquid which steams them instead of searing.

Equipment Needed

Slow cooker or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
Frying pan
Knife and cutting board
Meat thermometer (recommended for safety)
Stirring spoon

Shopping List

[ ] Chicken livers (500 g, fresh, about $4) – Choose firm, shiny livers without discoloration or strong smell.
[ ] BBQ sauce (120 ml, about $1.5) – Pick your favorite brand with a balanced flavor.
[ ] Yellow onion (1 medium, about $0.5) – Bright, firm, and without soft spots.
[ ] Garlic (3 cloves, about $0.2) – Fresh, firm cloves are best.
[ ] Olive oil (2 tbsp, about $0.3) – Use extra virgin for better taste.
[ ] Smoked paprika (1 tsp, about $0.3) – Available in spice section.
[ ] Ground black pepper (½ tsp, about $0.1) – Freshly ground preferred.
[ ] Salt (1 tsp, about $0.05) – Regular table salt or sea salt.
[ ] Chicken broth or water (100 ml, minimal cost) – Low sodium is best.

Total estimated cost: $6.00 - $8.00

Tips: Buy fresh ingredients close to cooking time. Check expiry on BBQ sauce and broth. Choose certified meat products for safety and freshness.

FAQ

How do I know when chicken livers are fully cooked?

Chicken livers are cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are tender throughout with no raw center. Use a meat thermometer to be safe.