Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon

Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon Recipe from New England

Region / culture: New England | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender chicken livers, salty bacon, and crunchy water chestnuts creates a mouthwatering flavor experience that is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe has its roots in traditional American barbecue cuisine, where grilled meats are often paired with rich and flavorful side dishes. Chicken livers have long been a popular ingredient in Southern cooking, prized for their rich taste and tender texture. By adding bacon and water chestnuts to the mix, this recipe takes the classic grilled chicken livers to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) chicken livers, trimmed and halved
0.25 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp light brown sugar
1 tbsp finely chopped fresh ginger
freshly ground pepper
4 slices bacon, cut into 1-inch strips
18 oz (510 g) can sliced water chestnuts
skewers

How to prepare

In a small bowl, combine the chicken livers, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and pepper. Marinate the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
On a wooden or metal skewer, thread a piece of bacon, followed by a piece of chicken liver and a slice of water chestnut.
Repeat the threading process until all the livers have been used.
Grill the skewers directly over hot coals for 8 to 12 minutes, turning once, until the edges of the bacon are crisp and the chicken livers are firm but slightly pink inside.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute the water chestnuts with pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy twist.
Use turkey bacon or pancetta instead of traditional bacon for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to trim the chicken livers before marinating them to remove any excess fat or connective tissue.

- Marinate the chicken livers for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Use wooden or metal skewers to thread the bacon, chicken livers, and water chestnuts for easy grilling.

- Grill the skewers over hot coals for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also pair it with rice or quinoa for a heartier option.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the skewers over hot coals gives the chicken livers a delicious smoky flavor and crispy texture. Make sure to turn the skewers once to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have chicken livers on hand, you can use chicken thighs or breasts instead. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken livers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to develop even more.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the grilled skewers on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with a side of dipping sauce for added flair.

Pairing Recommendations

Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon pairs well with a light and crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. You can also serve it with a cold beer or a refreshing cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon is a rich source of fats, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams of fat. The bacon adds a deliciously savory flavor while also providing healthy fats.

Proteins

This dish is high in protein, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams of protein. Chicken livers are a great source of lean protein, making this recipe a satisfying and nutritious option.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken livers are a good source of iron, vitamin A, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy blood cells, vision, and nerve function.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. It also contains bacon, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Overall, Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and healthy fats. It is low in carbohydrates and provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Summary

Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home. With its rich taste and tender texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was known far and wide for her delicious home-cooked meals. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping iced tea, Martha pulled out a tattered old cookbook that had been passed down through her family for generations.

She flipped through the pages with a knowing smile, until she landed on a page that was splattered with stains and dog-eared from years of use. "Ah, here it is," she said, pointing to a recipe for Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon. "This is a family favorite, and I think you'll love it."

I watched intently as Martha gathered the ingredients and explained the steps to me. The chicken livers were marinated in a tangy mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and lemon juice, then wrapped in slices of crispy bacon and grilled to perfection. The smell that wafted from the grill was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon and was immediately transported to a place of pure culinary bliss. The flavors were rich and savory, with just the right amount of smokiness from the bacon. I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the following weeks, I practiced making Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon in my own kitchen, tweaking the recipe here and there until it was just right. I experimented with different types of marinades and seasonings, always striving to capture the magic of Martha's original recipe.

As I perfected my technique, I began to serve Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon to my family and friends, who couldn't get enough of the dish. They marveled at the bold flavors and tender texture of the chicken livers, and begged me to share the recipe with them.

I happily obliged, passing on the recipe for Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon to anyone who asked. It became a staple at potlucks and dinner parties, and soon I was known as the go-to person for this delectable dish.

Years passed, and I continued to make Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon whenever I wanted to impress guests or simply treat myself to a special meal. The recipe had become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the day I first discovered it in Martha's kitchen.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and memories that have shaped my love of cooking. I am thankful for Martha's generosity in sharing her family recipe with me, and for the joy that Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon has brought to so many people over the years.

And so, I will continue to make this dish with passion and pride, passing on the tradition of Grilled Chicken Livers with Bacon to future generations. For in each delicious bite, I taste not only the flavors of the dish itself, but also the love and connection that food can bring to our lives.