Nigerian Peppered Gizzards Recipe (Spicy Grilled Gizzard)

A Childhood Belief About Gizzards Recipe

Growing up, I was taught that gizzard was strictly for men. In my culture, this part of the chicken called nze-nze in Igbo was treated as very special. People believed that women and children would get sick if they ate it.

Because of this, families handled the gizzard with great care when cleaning a chicken. They made sure not to damage it while removing it from the bird.

How I Learned the Truth

Years later, in my late teenage years, I learned that this belief was just a tradition, not a medical fact. I realized that anyone could eat gizzard without harm. I just hope the elders from my village never read this!

Why Peppered Gizzards Recipe Are Popular Today

Today, peppered gizzard—especially spicy gizzard—is a favorite in Nigerian small chops. You will find Nigerian peppered gizzards at parties, weddings, and celebrations.

However, you don’t have to wait for the next owambe to enjoy this snack. This grilled gizzard recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and very tasty. It is amazing how cheap gizzards are, considering how few each chicken produces.

Ingredients for Nigerian Peppered Gizzards

• 500g (1.1 lbs) chicken gizzards

• 3 habanero peppers (or to taste)

• 2 medium onions

• 1 big stock cube

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• Salt (to taste)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Tool you’ll need: Toothpicks for serving.

Notes on the Ingredients

• 500g of gizzard usually gives about 20 pieces, depending on size. Gizzards outside Nigeria are often smaller than local ones.

• Do not overseason. Gizzards do not absorb spices easily, so they can quickly taste too salty.

Before You Cook Your Spicy Gizzard

1. Peel off the inner lining of the gizzards, wash them well, and place them in a pot.

2. Cut the onions into large chunks.

3. Pound or blend the peppers without adding water.

4. You can marinate the gizzards if you want, but I usually skip this step. Gizzards are firm and rubbery, like shaki (tripe), so marinades do not penetrate well.

How to Make Nigerian Peppered Gizzards (Grilled Gizzard Recipe)

1. Add the stock cube, thyme, and chopped onions to the gizzards in the pot.

2. Pour just enough water to almost cover them and cook on medium heat.

3. When the gizzards become tender, remove the large onion chunks.

4. Turn up the heat and stir constantly until all the liquid dries up. This keeps the flavor inside.

5. Add salt to taste and mix well.

6. Spread the gizzards in a baking tray.

7. Grill at 170°C (338°F) until golden brown and slightly crispy on both sides. (Deep-fry if you don’t have an oven.)

8. Heat vegetable oil in another pan.

9. Add the blended pepper and the grilled gizzards, then stir until well coated. The oil makes them shiny and flavorful.

10. Insert toothpicks and serve.

Serving Suggestions

• For family meals: Serve your Nigerian peppered gizzards with Fried Plantains, Rice & Beans, or Jollof Rice.

• For parties: Arrange them neatly on a tray with other small chops. Your guests will love them—though some may reach for water because of the pepper!

Questions People Also Ask About Gizzards

How do you cook gizzards so they are not tough?

Simmer them slowly in water with onions, garlic, and spices for 40–60 minutes until fork-tender. Proper boiling makes them soft.

Should I boil gizzards before frying?

Yes. Trim excess fat, rinse them, and boil in salted water for 15–45 minutes until tender before frying or grilling.

How do you cook gizzards step by step?

Put cleaned gizzards in a pot, cover with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes. If still tough, cook for another 15 minutes.

Do you rinse gizzards before cooking?

Yes. Always rinse them under cold running water and clean them properly.

Who should avoid eating chicken gizzards?

People with gout should avoid gizzards because they contain high levels of purines.

Is gizzard healthier than chicken breast?

Gizzards contain fewer calories and plenty of protein, which can help with weight control. Chicken breast, however, has less fat.

Which organ meat is the healthiest?

Liver is the most nutritious organ meat because it contains vitamin A, folate, and iron.

Can I eat gizzards if I have high cholesterol?

Gizzards contain high cholesterol, so people with high cholesterol should eat them in moderation.