Quick and Easy Pan Fried Chicken Hearts Recipe

This chicken hearts recipe combines tender, succulent chicken hearts with the perfect balance of spices to create a meal that's not only incredibly delicious but also super affordable. It's perfect as both an appetizer and a full meal when you pair it with some sides - the latter is what how we usually make it at our house. If this recipe is your first foray into eating chicken hearts, I can almost guarantee it won't be your last.

I've Been Hooked On These Chicken Hearts

My friend Matt recently made me this chicken hearts recipe, and I immediately fell in love with it.

If I'm being totally honest, it was actually only my third time trying them - chicken hearts, that is - and I'm super happy that I did. I mean, I liked 'em so much that I'm sharing the recipe with you - so you know it has to be good, right?!

There's just something so addicting about the different combinations of textures and flavors in this recipe that sets it apart from the other chicken heart recipes I've tried. The tender, meaty hearts end up soaking up all of the flavors of the aromatics, spices, and seasonings - it's almost a religious experience of yumminess.

Now, on top of how tasty these hearts are, they're also so, so easy to make. Just a handful of steps are all that you have to follow to whip 'em up, and they comes together in just 30 minutes.

Anyway, I know I just hyped this recipe up to astronomical proportions, so I'm going to put a rest on that and get into the nitty-gritty. Sound good? Cool!

Ingredients For Chicken Hearts

• Just over 1lb. raw chicken hearts - feel free to make more or less.
• 2 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 onion - will bring a nice sweetness that will cut through the richness of the chicken hearts.
• 2 garlic cloves - always a great match with chicken hearts.
• 2 teaspoon ginger - for a little heat and depth of flavor.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil - to fry the chicken hearts (you can also use vegetable oil if you prefer)
• Spice mix - I like to combine a teaspoon of paprika, dash seasoning, and curry powder to give this dish a real kick.
• Fresh parsley and lemon juice - For a final touch of freshness.

How To Make Chicken Hearts

Step 1: Clean off the chicken hearts

This is really an important step when you are cooking chicken hearts, or any type of organs for that matter. Start by cutting the fatty tops off the hearts, then transfer them to a bowl and stir in the vinegar. Set aside for 2-3 minutes while you chop the onion and mince the garlic and ginger.

Step 2: Partially cook the chicken hearts

Next, transfer the chicken hearts to a small pot and cover them with water. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and let cook for 5 minutes. Drain, pat dry, and set the hearts aside.

Step 3: Pan-fry the chicken hearts

Add olive oil to a large skillet - or non-stick pan - over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add the chicken hearts, garlic, and ginger and sauté everything for 5 minutes - until the chicken hearts start taking on a golden hue.

Step 4: Add the spices

This is where you are really going to bring out the amazing taste of those chicken hearts. Add the paprika, dash seasoning, and curry powder and sauté for 1-2 more minutes. If anything starts to stick, just add a little splash of water and give it a stir. 

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

To check your chicken hearts are fully cooked, you can slice one in half and check and see if it's soft pink in color. If it is, your chicken hearts are done!

Once they are perfect, plate your hearts up and garnish with chopped parsley and fresh lemon wedges. Enjoy!

Expert Tips To Make The Best Recipe

• Make sure you don't overcook the hearts, or they'll turn out super tough and chewy. Soft pink in color is all the middles of the hearts need to be for them to be done.
• Stir the hearts around the pan frequently throughout cooking so they cook evenly.
• If you can't find Dash seasoning at the store, a cajun seasoning is equally delicious.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

Store them in the fridge: Allow the hearts to cool, then add them to either an airtight container or a sealable bag and store them in the fridge. Stored like this, the hearts will stay good for up to 4 days.

Store them in the freezer: You can also store any leftover chicken hearts you end up with in the freezer. Again, just add them to an air-tight freezer-safe container, and they'll stay good for up to four months.

How to reheat them: To reheat the hearts, just add a little oil to a pan and cook them over medium-high heat until they are piping hot throughout. Typically about 3 minutes is enough time to heat them back up.

Chicken Hearts Recipe FAQS

What do Chicken Hearts Taste Like?

Cooked chicken hearts taste just like dark meat but with a fattier, richer texture. They have a slightly gamey taste alone, but this recipe has the most delicious spice mix that gives the chicken hearts a truly delicious flavor.

Are Chicken Hearts Healthy?

Chicken hearts are super healthy, nutrient-dense foods. They are rich in protein and are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that aren't in chicken breasts. 

More Chicken Recipes To Try Next

• Chicken Tocino
• Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
• Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken
• Chicken Cobbler