Chicken Livers Smothered In Onions

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Chicken livers smothered in caramelized onions and mushrooms create a rich, savory dish full of bold flavors. Perfect for a comforting meal, it pairs well with bread or rice and suits those who enjoy hearty, protein-packed recipes with a touch of elegance and depth.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken livers
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/4 cup chicken fat, margarine, or butter
  • 2 cups sweet onions, sliced about 1/8 inch thick
  • 1 cup mushrooms stems and pieces

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken livers into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Sprinkle the livers with salt and pepper and let stand for a few minutes.
  3. Melt the chicken fat in a large skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
  4. Add the chicken livers and sauté until they begin to brown and can be cut with a fork.
  5. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms to the skillet and cover.
  6. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes.
  7. Remove the lid, turn up the heat slightly, and turn the livers and onions over with a spatula.
  8. Sauté for 5 minutes longer or until the onions turn golden brown.
  9. Serve immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use fresh chicken livers and handle them gently to avoid breakage. If you don't have chicken fat, butter is a suitable substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly. For added depth, consider incorporating garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. If you want to add a bit of tang, a splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the dish's flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken livers smothered in onions with crusty bread to soak up the juices or alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. A side of sautéed greens or a simple salad can provide a refreshing contrast. This dish also pairs beautifully with Chicken And Bows for a comforting dinner option.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a small amount of water or broth to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the livers tough and dry.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chicken Livers Smothered In Onions contains roughly 18 calories, with 3g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1900mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).

18 kcal 1% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.1g 6% DV
Total Fat 0.3g
Carbs 1g
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 0.4g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1899.8mg 83% DV
Potassium 104mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 7.7mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.4mcg
Vitamin C 0.9mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 3.9mcg 20% DV
Calcium 3.3mg
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit High-protein Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 use frozen chicken livers for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken livers. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, which will help in achieving a nice browning during cooking.

What can I substitute for sweet onions?

If sweet onions are unavailable, yellow onions can be used as a substitute, though they are a bit stronger in flavor. Alternatively, you could use shallots for a milder taste or even red onions for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the onions and livers. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick.

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).

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