Tender Slow-Cooked Chicken Hearts in Savory Sauce
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs3gram
Fat15gram
Protein27gram
Ingredients
- Fresh chicken hearts (choose ones that look firm, clean, and glossy)500 g
- Olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)2 tbsp
- Onion (medium, finely chopped)1 piece
- Garlic cloves (minced)3 piece
- Chicken broth (low sodium preferred)200 ml
- Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)2 tbsp
- Paprika (smoked if available for extra flavor)1 tsp
- Saltto taste n/a
- Black pepper (freshly ground)to taste n/a
- Fresh parsley (chopped) for garnish (optional)2 tbsp
This recipe guides you through the slow cooking of chicken hearts until they are tender and flavorful. Slow cooking transforms the texture, making the hearts juicy and soft, perfect for a nutritious and economical meal. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $6 USD / €5.5 / £4.8 / ₹450. The dish provides roughly 250 kcal per serving. It is a protein-rich dish suitable for low-carb diets and is rated as easy in complexity, with a total cooking time of around 2 hours. Strict attention to food safety is maintained, ensuring the hearts reach a safe internal temperature and are handled carefully to avoid contamination.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Chicken Hearts
1Rinse the chicken hearts under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels. Trim away any visible fat or connective tissue using a small knife. This step ensures cleaner taste and texture.
Sauté Aromatics
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet or slow cooker insert over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently. This builds a flavorful base for your dish.
Add Chicken Hearts and Season
3Add the prepared chicken hearts to the skillet and cook them for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until they start to brown slightly. Sprinkle paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly while stirring to coat the hearts.
Transfer to Slow Cooker and Add Liquids
4If you used a skillet, transfer the contents to the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth and soy sauce, stirring gently to combine. The liquid will keep the hearts moist and infuse delicious flavor during slow cooking.
Slow Cook Until Tender
5Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook the chicken hearts for 1.5 to 2 hours. Check at 1.5 hours by using a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached at least 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption. The hearts should be tender and juicy. Avoid overcooking to keep texture pleasant.
Final Touches and Serve
6Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. Serve warm with your choice of side like rice, mashed potatoes, or salad.
Cooking Tips
1Always use a food thermometer to verify chicken hearts reach 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety.
2Avoid washing meat in sinks to prevent cross-contamination; rinse only under running water if needed, directly over the sink.
3To save time, you can skip browning and put all ingredients directly into the slow cooker, but browning enhances flavor.
4If you don't have a slow cooker, you can cook in a covered pot on very low heat on the stove for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5Feel free to add herbs like thyme or bay leaf for additional aroma during slow cooking.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (or heavy-bottomed pot with lid)
- Skillet (optional)
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon for stirring
- Food thermometer
- Serving dish or bowls
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] 500 g fresh chicken hearts (~$4) - Choose hearts that are firm and not discolored.
- [ ] Olive oil, extra virgin (~$0.50 for required amount) - Look for good quality for better flavor.
- [ ] 1 medium onion (~$0.30) - Fresh, firm onions without soft spots.
- [ ] 3 garlic cloves (~$0.20) - Free from mold or sprouting.
- [ ] 200 ml chicken broth, low sodium (~$0.70) - Homemade or store-bought.
- [ ] Soy sauce (~$0.30 for measured amount) - Choose low sodium options if preferred.
- [ ] Paprika (~$0.10 for measured amount) - Smoked paprika adds depth.
- [ ] Salt and black pepper - Pantry staples.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (~$0.40) - Look for bright green leaves.
Total approximate cost: $6.50
FAQ
How do I know when chicken hearts are fully cooked?
Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken hearts reaches 74°C (165°F). The texture should be tender but not mushy.
Can I use frozen chicken hearts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.
Is it necessary to brown the chicken hearts before slow cooking?
Browning adds extra flavor and texture, but if you're short on time, you can skip this step and cook directly in the slow cooker.
How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
Can I substitute chicken hearts with other organ meats?
You can try chicken gizzards or liver, but cooking times and flavors will vary.