For those who truly appreciate the art of Southern soul food, Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Gizzards are a timeless delight. These tender morsels, often overlooked in favor of drumsticks or wings, offer a unique texture and flavor that’s as satisfying as it is nostalgic. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying game day snacks, or simply craving something crispy and comforting, this recipe promises pure fried-chicken bliss.
Let’s dive into how to create this classic dish step by step!
Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Gizzards: A Soul Food Classic 🍗✨
These Southern Fried Chicken Gizzards bring together the best of Southern cooking—seasoned gizzards coated in a golden breading and fried until perfectly crispy. Paired with creamy coleslaw, fluffy biscuits, or even drizzled with honey mustard, they’re sure to become a favorite for both adventurous eaters and traditionalists alike.
So grab your cast-iron skillet and let’s fry up some tradition!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender & Juicy : Properly prepared gizzards remain moist while developing a crispy exterior.
- Budget-Friendly : Gizzards are an affordable protein packed with flavor and nutrition.
- Quick Prep Time : Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal effort.
- Customizable Seasonings : Swap spices or add heat for endless variations.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Gizzards:
- 1 lb chicken gizzards, cleaned and patted dry
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Dash of paprika or cayenne for extra spice
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For the Coating:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust based on heat preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
- Optional: Flour dredge station for double coating
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Gizzards
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the gizzards to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, thyme, oregano, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to reach about 1 inch in depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test readiness, drop a small piece of coating into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
Step 4: Coat the Gizzards
- Remove the gizzards from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each gizzard in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. If desired, dip back into the marinade before re-coating for added crunch.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place the coated gizzards into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 8–10 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on the outside but tender within.
Pro Tip : Double-frying (once briefly, then again after resting) enhances crispiness.
Step 6: Drain & Serve
Remove the fried gizzards from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving hot.
Pair with classic sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, or cornbread for a true taste of Southern comfort.
Tips for Success
- Clean Properly : Ensure the gizzards are thoroughly cleaned and dried before marinating to avoid unwanted flavors.
- Marinate Long Enough : Extended marination time guarantees juicy results and bold seasoning penetration.
- Adjust Spices : Customize spice levels to suit mild or fiery preferences.
- Serve Fresh : Fried foods taste best when enjoyed shortly after cooking.

