Tender and Healthy Slow-Cooked Chicken Hearts
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs3gram
Fat15gram
Protein26gram
Ingredients
- Chicken hearts (fresh, cleaned) - choose hearts that are plump and reddish without bruises or unpleasant odor500 g
- Olive oil (extra virgin) - a good quality oil adds depth of flavor2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves - fresh, firm and without sprouts3 pieces
- Onion (medium) - choose firm and dry-skinned1 piece
- Paprika (smoked or sweet) - adds a warm smoky flavor1 tsp
- Dried thyme - aromatic herb that complements poultry well1 tsp
- Salt - to taste, preferably sea salt or kosher salt1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground) - to taste0.5 tsp
- Chicken broth (low sodium) - to keep it moist and flavorful150 ml
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) - brightens flavors and presentation2 tbsp
Discover the secrets to making deliciously tender and healthy slow-cooked chicken hearts with this easy recipe. Chicken hearts are a nutrient-rich delicacy packed with protein and essential vitamins. Slow cooking them ensures they remain juicy and tender while absorbing the aromatic spices. This recipe uses simple ingredients likely available at your local supermarket and requires minimal preparation. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $8 (7.5€ / £6.5 / ₹600). The dish contains about 250 kcal per serving, making it a good option for a balanced diet including paleo and keto. The recipe difficulty is easy and the total time required is around 3 hours, mostly hands-off slow cooking time.
Preparation instructions
Prepare Ingredients
1Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic cloves. Rinse the chicken hearts well under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels. Proper cleaning and drying helps remove any impurities and prepares the hearts for cooking. Time: 10 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics
2In a large skillet or slow cooker insert, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step helps to build flavor before slow cooking.
Add Chicken Hearts and Spices
3Add the cleaned chicken hearts to the skillet and stir well to coat them in the oil and aromatics. Sprinkle paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper evenly over the hearts. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the hearts start to brown slightly. This enhances the taste through gentle caramelization.
Transfer to Slow Cooker and Add Broth
4Transfer the contents to the slow cooker if you used a separate skillet. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture to keep it moist during cooking. Stir gently to combine and distribute the broth evenly. Adding broth ensures the hearts stay tender and juicy during the long cooking.
Slow Cook the Chicken Hearts
5Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 2 to 2.5 hours. This long, slow cooking breaks down tough fibers and results in tender hearts bursting with flavor. Check at the 2-hour mark for doneness.
Check Internal Temperature and Serve
6Using a meat thermometer, check that the chicken hearts have reached a safe internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety. If they have reached this, switch the slow cooker off. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving for freshness and color. Time: 5 minutes.
Cooking Tips
-Always wash your hands and utensils thoroughly after handling raw chicken hearts to avoid cross-contamination.
-If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can cook the hearts in a covered pot on very low heat on the stove for similar results.
-For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice before slow cooking.
-Avoid overcooking chicken hearts as they can become rubbery; slow cooking at low temperature is key to tender results.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker or heavy-bottomed pot with a lid
- Meat thermometer
- Skillet (optional, for sautéing)
- Knife and chopping board
- Stirring spoon
Shopping List
- [ ] Chicken hearts (500g) - Approximately $4.00. Select fresh, firm hearts with a deep red color and no unpleasant odor.
- [ ] Olive oil (extra virgin) - Approximately $0.50 for required amount. Look for cold-pressed and labeled 'extra virgin' for best quality.
- [ ] Garlic cloves (3 pieces) - Approximately $0.20. Choose firm bulbs with unbroken skin.
- [ ] Onion (1 medium) - Approximately $0.30. Select onions that are firm, dry-skinned, and free of spots.
- [ ] Paprika (1 tsp) - Approximately $0.20. Use smoked paprika for a richer smoky flavor.
- [ ] Dried thyme (1 tsp) - Approximately $0.15. Choose dried herbs stored in airtight containers.
- [ ] Salt and black pepper - Approximately $0.10 combined. Use freshly ground pepper for better flavor.
- [ ] Low sodium chicken broth (150 ml) - Approximately $2.00. Use good quality broth or stock for best taste.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (optional) - Approximately $0.50. Choose fresh, bright green parsley without wilted leaves.
Total Estimated Cost: $8.00
FAQ
How do I know when chicken hearts are fully cooked and safe to eat?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 74°C (165°F). The hearts should be firm but tender and no longer pink inside.
Can I cook chicken hearts in a regular pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook them in a covered pot on very low heat for about 2 to 2.5 hours. Stir occasionally and add broth as needed to keep them moist.
Is it necessary to clean chicken hearts before cooking?
Yes, rinse them under cold water and remove any visible fat or connective tissue to improve taste and texture.
Can I freeze cooked chicken hearts?
Yes, once cooked and cooled, place them in an airtight container and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating gently.