The secret is high heat + short cooking time so they stay juicy.
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
-
1 lb chicken hearts
-
1½ tbsp beef tallow or butter
-
3 garlic cloves (minced)
-
Salt & black pepper
-
1 tsp paprika
-
½ tsp cumin (optional)
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
Optional: chili flakes
Step 1: Quick Prep
-
Trim excess fat or arteries if attached (optional).
-
Pat dry very well.
👉 Dry hearts brown better.
Step 2: High-Heat Sear (Most Important)
-
Heat beef tallow in skillet on medium-high to high heat.
-
Add hearts in one layer.
-
Let them sit 2 minutes without moving.
-
Stir and cook another 3–4 minutes.
Total cook time: 5–6 minutes.
Inside should stay slightly pink for tenderness.
Step 3: Finish
-
Lower heat slightly.
-
Add garlic and spices.
-
Cook 30–60 seconds.
-
Splash lemon juice at the end.
Serve With
-
Rice
-
Eggs (great breakfast protein)
-
Salad
-
Skewered like Brazilian BBQ
Why Chicken Hearts Are Popular
-
Very high protein
-
Rich in iron & B12
-
Naturally tender when not overcooked
-
Taste closer to steak than liver
Chef Tip
If you want steakhouse flavor:
-
Cook in beef tallow
-
Finish with small piece of butter
