Did you know that 4 oz (112 g) of chicken gizzards and hearts contain 120 calories? If you're trying to maintain a healthy diet or simply counting calories, it's important to know how many calories are in the foods you eat. In this article, we'll delve into the nutritional information and benefits of chicken gizzards and hearts.

Apart from calories, chicken gizzards and hearts are also rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, many people are still hesitant to try these parts of the chicken due to their unconventional taste and texture.

With the right cooking techniques and recipes, chicken gizzards and hearts can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet.

Wondering How Many Calories Chicken Gizzards & Hearts Contain?

As mentioned earlier, 4 oz (112 g) of chicken gizzards and hearts contain 120 calories. This may not seem like a lot, but it can add up quickly if you consume large servings. If you're watching your weight or trying to reduce your calorie intake, it's best to moderate your consumption of chicken gizzards and hearts.

The Protein Content in Chicken Gizzards & Hearts

In addition to calories, chicken gizzards and hearts are a great source of protein. 4 oz (112 g) of these chicken parts contain around 21 grams of protein, which is almost half the recommended daily intake for an adult. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. It also provides energy and helps keep you full for longer periods, making it an important nutrient for weight management.

How to Cook Chicken Gizzards & Hearts

Chicken gizzards and hearts can be intimidating to cook, especially if you're not used to them. However, there are several ways to prepare them that can make them more palatable and enjoyable. One popular method is to marinate them in a flavorful mix of herbs and spices, then grill or sauté them until they're tender and crispy. You can also add them to soups, stews, or stir-fries for added texture and flavor. Experiment with different cooking methods and seasonings until you find a recipe that suits your taste buds.

Health Benefits of Chicken Gizzards & Hearts

Besides being a good source of protein, chicken gizzards and hearts are also packed with essential nutrients that can benefit your overall health. For instance, they're high in iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the blood and the prevention of anemia. They also contain zinc, vitamin B12, and niacin, which play a role in immune function and cellular metabolism. Incorporating chicken gizzards and hearts into your diet can provide a variety of health advantages, as long as you consume them in moderation and prepare them in a healthy way.

Easy Chicken Gizzards & Hearts Recipe

If you're looking for a simple and tasty recipe to try with chicken gizzards and hearts, here's one to get you started:

Are Chicken Gizzards & Hearts Good for You?

Chicken gizzards and hearts can be a nutritious addition to your diet, but it's important to consume them in moderation and alongside other healthy foods. While they're a good source of protein and essential nutrients, they're also high in cholesterol and saturated fat, which can raise your risk of heart disease and other health problems if you eat too much. Consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before adding chicken gizzards and hearts to your diet, especially if you have a preexisting health condition or are taking medication.

The Nutrients Found in Chicken Gizzards & Hearts

Wondering what nutrients you can get from a serving of chicken gizzards and hearts? Here are some of the most important ones:

• Protein - 21 grams
• Iron - 3.5 milligrams
• Zinc - 1.6 milligrams
• Vitamin B12 - 5.5 micrograms
• Niacin - 5.2 milligrams

In addition, chicken gizzards and hearts contain small amounts of other essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium.

Ways to Add Chicken Gizzards & Hearts to Your Diet

If you're interested in incorporating chicken gizzards and hearts into your diet, here are some easy ways to do so:

• Grilling or sautéing them with your favorite spices and herbs
• Adding them to soups, stews, or stir-fries
• Mixing them with ground meat to make meatballs or patties
• Serving them alongside other chicken parts, such as wings or drumsticks

You can also experiment with different cooking methods and recipes until you find a version that you enjoy.

How Much Chicken Gizzards & Hearts Can You Consume in a Day?

As with any food, moderation is key when it comes to chicken gizzards and hearts. While they can provide many health benefits, consuming too much can have negative effects on your health due to their high cholesterol and saturated fat content. To stay within a healthy limit, aim to have no more than 4 oz (112 g) of chicken gizzards and hearts per day, and pair them with other lean protein sources and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Interesting and Lesser-Known Facts About Chicken Gizzards

As a bonus, here are a few fun facts about chicken gizzards that you might not know:

• They're actually part of the chicken's digestive system, and are responsible for grinding food in the stomach
• They're often used as a popular ingredient in Cajun and soul food dishes
• They’re sometimes referred to as “walkers,” as chickens use them to help them walk
• They're a common snack food in many cultures around the world