Chicken liver and rice might not be the first dish that comes to mind for a weeknight dinner, but it’s truly a hidden gem in the world of comfort food. This recipe combines the rich, earthy flavors of tender chicken livers with fluffy, aromatic rice to create a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with nutrients.
Whether you’re a liver lover or a curious cook wanting to try something new, this dish offers a wonderful balance of taste and texture that’s sure to impress your family and guests.
Beyond its delicious flavor profile, chicken liver is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, making this meal as nutritious as it is tasty. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward cooking method make it perfect for those busy days when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Plus, it’s budget-friendly and versatile enough to customize with your favorite herbs and spices. Let’s dive into how you can make this delightful chicken liver and rice recipe at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken liver and rice recipe is a wonderful blend of health, flavor, and ease.
- Rich in nutrients: Chicken livers are loaded with iron, vitamin A, and protein.
- Comforting and filling: The combination of tender livers and fluffy rice makes for a satisfying meal.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Budget-friendly: Affordable ingredients that don’t compromise on flavor.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite spices, herbs, or veggies for a personal touch.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken livers, cleaned and trimmed
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers or tomatoes
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander or strainer (for rinsing rice)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken livers: Rinse the chicken livers under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim any connective tissue or greenish parts for a cleaner flavor.
- Cook the rice: Rinse the rice until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Remove from heat and keep covered.
- Sauté the aromatics: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken livers: Increase heat to medium-high and add the chicken livers to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned on the outside but still slightly pink inside. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Add optional vegetables: If using bell peppers or tomatoes, add them now and sauté for an additional 3 minutes until softened.
- Combine and finish: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and gently fold it into the skillet with the chicken livers and vegetables. Cook together for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
“For the best flavor, soak chicken livers in milk for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps remove any bitterness and tenderizes the livers.”
- Try using brown rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber; just increase cooking time accordingly.
- Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice when cooking the livers for an extra layer of brightness.
- Incorporate chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added greens.
- Use fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different aromatic profile.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream at the end.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Iron | 6 mg (33% DV) |
| Vitamin A | 9000 IU (180% DV) |
Serving Suggestions
This chicken liver and rice dish pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp salads or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.
- A simple cucumber and tomato salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed green beans or broccoli with a drizzle of olive oil
- Warm crusty bread to soak up any juices
- A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt for a creamy contrast
Conclusion
Chicken liver and rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation. With its nutritional benefits, budget-friendly ingredients, and simple preparation, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty and wholesome dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe delivers satisfying taste and texture without complicated techniques.
Don’t be intimidated by chicken livers—they’re incredibly versatile and quick to prepare, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious cooks seeking variety. Give this recipe a try and experiment with different herbs and vegetables to make it your own.
For more ideas on wholesome meals, check out our Classic Beef Stew Recipe, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Chicken Liver and Rice Recipe
Description: A savory and nutritious dish combining tender chicken livers with fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 500g chicken livers, cleaned
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Rinse the rice and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add chicken livers and cook until browned.
- Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add rice and stir to coat with oil and spices.
- Pour in chicken broth and water, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 28 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 25 g
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