Chicken Liver Spaghetti
A hearty Italian-inspired spaghetti dish featuring tender chicken livers, savory meat sauce, and classic flavors, perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a skillet.
- Brown chicken livers in butter until cooked through.
- Cut chicken livers into small pieces.
- Combine browned hamburger mixture, chicken livers, tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add olive oil to the mixture and stir well.
- Cook spaghetti in boiling water for 7 minutes, then drain.
- Layer cooked spaghetti in a baking dish, then add a layer of the meat sauce.
- Repeat layering, ending with a layer of sauce on top.
- Bake in a 300°F oven for approximately 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half the chicken livers with mushrooms. You can also use ground turkey instead of hamburger for a leaner option. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for more or less heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Liver Spaghetti with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. A fresh green salad pairs nicely to balance the richness of the dish. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Chicken Cacciatore With Artichoke Hearts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spaghetti and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between, until warm. Avoid reheating too long, as it can dry out the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Liver Spaghetti contains roughly 355 calories, with 17g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (116% of the Daily Value), potassium (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2495mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Chicken Liver Spaghetti?
Yes, Chicken Liver Spaghetti can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I substitute for chicken livers?
If you're not a fan of chicken livers, you can substitute them with sautéed mushrooms or cooked ground turkey for a different texture. Keep in mind that the flavor will change, but the dish will still be delicious. Alternatively, you can use beef liver for a stronger taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat to your Chicken Liver Spaghetti, increase the amount of chili powder or add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Just be sure to taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).