Slow-cooked chicken hearts in a spicy sauce served in a bowl

Spicy Slow-Cooked Chicken Hearts

Name: Spicy Slow-Cooked Chicken Hearts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: international
Ingredients: 500 g Chicken hearts (choose fresh, firm hearts with no discoloration); 2 tbsp Olive oil, extra virgin (look for cold-pressed for better flavor); 1 piece Onion, finely chopped (choose firm and dry skin onions); 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced (fresh garlic provides best aroma); 1 tsp Smoked paprika (for a smoky spicy flavor); 0.5 tsp Cayenne pepper (adjust to preferred spiciness); 0.5 tsp Ground black pepper (freshly ground if possible); 1 tsp Salt (to taste, about 1 tsp); 2 tbsp Tomato paste (choose plain, no added sugar); 200 ml Chicken broth (preferably low sodium); 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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easy

3 hour

Nutritional value per serving

Calories250kcal

Carbs6gram

Fat10gram

Protein26gram

Ingredients

Quantity

Chicken hearts (choose fresh, firm hearts with no discoloration)500 g
Olive oil, extra virgin (look for cold-pressed for better flavor)2 tbsp
Onion, finely chopped (choose firm and dry skin onions)1 piece
Garlic cloves, minced (fresh garlic provides best aroma)3 cloves
Smoked paprika (for a smoky spicy flavor)1 tsp
Cayenne pepper (adjust to preferred spiciness)0.5 tsp
Ground black pepper (freshly ground if possible)0.5 tsp
Salt (to taste, about 1 tsp)1 tsp
Tomato paste (choose plain, no added sugar)2 tbsp
Chicken broth (preferably low sodium)200 ml
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)2 tbsp

This spicy slow-cooked chicken hearts recipe is a flavorful and tender dish that's easy to prepare, perfect for those new to cooking or looking for a simple yet delicious meal. Chicken hearts are a nutrient-rich and affordable offal, and slow cooking makes them wonderfully soft and infused with spices. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $8 USD / €7 / £6 / ₹600, making it an economical and satisfying option. The recipe yields 4 servings, each with around 250 calories. Suitable for those following a low-carb diet. Difficulty is easy, and total cooking time is about 3 hours. Food safety is emphasized, with the proper internal cooking temperature for poultry at least 74°C (165°F) to ensure it's safe to eat.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the chicken hearts

1Rinse the chicken hearts well under cold water and trim any excess fat or connective tissue. Pat dry with paper towels. This ensures cleanliness and better texture.

Sauté aromatics

2Heat olive oil in a slow cooker-safe pan or skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. This step builds flavor.

Add spices and tomato paste

3Stir in smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt, cooking for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors. Add tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Combine in slow cooker

4Transfer the sautéed mixture to the slow cooker. Add the chicken hearts and pour chicken broth over. Stir to combine everything evenly.

Slow cook the chicken hearts

5Cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours. The chicken hearts should be tender and cooked through. Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 74°C (165°F) to ensure safety.

Serve

6Once done, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and fresh flavor. Serve hot with rice, bread, or your preferred side. Enjoy your nourishing, spicy slow-cooked chicken hearts!

Cooking Tips

1Avoid cross-contamination: Always use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken hearts and other foods.

2Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level based on your preference.

3If you don't have a slow cooker, you can simmer the mixture on the stove over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

4Make sure the chicken hearts reach the safe minimum internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) by using a food thermometer, crucial for poultry safety.

5If you prefer less spicy, omit the cayenne pepper and add more smoked paprika for flavor without heat.

Equipment Needed

Slow cooker
Skillet or frying pan
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons
Measuring cup
Food thermometer
Mixing spoon

Grocery Shopping List

[ ] 500g Chicken hearts (~$4) - Choose fresh chicken hearts that are firm and have a deep reddish color.
[ ] Olive oil, extra virgin (~$0.50 for amount used) - Look for cold-pressed for best flavor.
[ ] 1 Onion (~$0.50) - Pick firm onions with dry skins avoiding any soft spots.
[ ] Garlic cloves (~$0.30 for 3 cloves) - Fresh garlic bulbs are best.
[ ] Spices (smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper) (~$1 total, spices usually purchased in bulk)
[ ] Salt (~$0.05 for amount used)
[ ] Tomato paste (~$0.50 for 2 tbsp) - Opt for plain tomato paste with no added sugar.
[ ] Chicken broth (~$1 for 200 ml) - Low sodium preferred.
[ ] Fresh parsley (~$0.50 for a bunch) - Get fresh and vibrant green leaves.

Total Approximate Cost: $8

Tips: Buy spices in small jars to keep them fresh. Always check the 'best before' date.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken hearts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken hearts. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

What if I don't have a slow cooker?

You can cook this recipe on the stovetop by simmering everything in a covered pot over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until the hearts are tender.