Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Gizzards: A Soul Food Classic

 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Gizzards

1 lb chicken gizzards, cleaned and patted very dry

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Optional: Pinch of paprika or cayenne for extra warmth

For the Buttermilk Marinade

1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar, let sit 5 mins)

1 tbsp hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or Crystal)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

For the Seasoned Flour Coating

1½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp ground mustard

½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

For Frying

4–6 cups vegetable oil (or peanut oil)

Heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet