Can You Cook Gizzards in an Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can cook gizzards in an air fryer—and they come out crispy, juicy, and full of flavor with minimal effort. Pre-cooking gizzards by boiling or pressure cooking for 20–30 minutes ensures tenderness, then air frying at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes delivers that perfect crunch. Say goodbye to greasy stovetop mess and hello to a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy this underrated cut.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook gizzards in an air fryer for crispy, tender results.
• Pre-cook gizzards by boiling or pressure cooking to save air fryer time.
• Season generously before air frying for maximum flavor and texture.
• Air fry at 375°F–400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Pat dry before cooking to ensure a crispy exterior and even browning.
• Use minimal oil—the air fryer circulates heat for perfect crispiness.

Can You Cook Gizzards in an Air Fryer? The Ultimate Guide

Let’s be honest—chicken gizzards aren’t exactly the first thing you reach for at the grocery store. For many, they’re a forgotten cut, tucked away behind chicken breasts and drumsticks. But if you’ve ever had a perfectly cooked gizzard—tender, flavorful, with a satisfying chew—you know they’re a hidden gem. And here’s the real game-changer: can you cook gizzards in an air fryer? The short answer? A resounding yes. The long answer? It’s not just possible—it might be the *best* way to cook them.

I remember the first time I tried gizzards. I was at a friend’s backyard cookout, and she pulled out a plate of golden-brown, crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside gizzards. “You’ve never had these?” she asked, laughing at my hesitation. One bite later, I was hooked. But traditional methods—like boiling, stewing, or deep frying—felt like too much work. Then I discovered the air fryer. No oil splatter, no long cook times, and no need to hover over a hot stove. It felt almost too good to be true. So I experimented, failed, learned, and now? I’m sharing everything I’ve discovered so you can skip the trial-and-error and go straight to crispy, delicious gizzard heaven.

Why Gizzards Deserve a Spot in Your Air Fryer

Gizzards are the muscular stomach of a bird—specifically, the part that grinds food (hence the chewiness). They’re packed with protein, iron, and B vitamins, making them a nutritional powerhouse. But their texture is what makes them special. When cooked right, they’re tender with a slight resistance—like a cross between chicken and a well-done steak. When cooked wrong? They’re rubbery, tough, or flavorless. The air fryer solves these problems in a way few other methods can.

Texture Control: Crispy Outside, Tender Inside

Here’s the magic: air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to cook food. This creates a Maillard reaction—the same browning process that happens when you sear meat—without needing a lot of oil. For gizzards, this means:

• Crispy exterior: The high heat quickly crisps the outside, locking in moisture. No more soggy, boiled gizzards.
• Even cooking: Unlike stovetop methods (where some pieces overcook while others stay raw), the air fryer cooks uniformly.
• Less mess: No splattering oil or steam. Just pop them in, set a timer, and walk away.

I once tried pan-frying gizzards in oil. The kitchen looked like a crime scene—oil everywhere, smoke alarms blaring. The air fryer? My kitchen stayed clean, and the gizzards came out better. Win-win.

Nutrition: Lean, High-Protein, and Low-Fat

Gizzards are leaner than most cuts of meat. A 3-ounce serving has about 130 calories, 25g of protein, and just 3g of fat. When you air fry them, you add *zero* extra fat (unless you choose to). Compare that to deep-frying, which can add 100+ calories per serving. If you’re watching your fat intake or just want a healthier option, the air fryer is the way to go.

Pro tip: Skip the breading. A light coating of cornstarch or flour can add crispiness, but it’s not necessary. I’ve found that a quick toss in oil and seasoning gives the best texture without the extra carbs.

Prepping Gizzards for the Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you toss gizzards into the air fryer, they need some prep. Fresh gizzards (from a butcher or local farm) are best, but pre-cleaned, frozen gizzards work too. Here’s how to get them ready:

Step 1: Clean and Trim

If your gizzards aren’t pre-cleaned:

1. Rinse them under cold water.
2. Trim off any excess fat, connective tissue, or the tough inner lining (it’s usually a yellowish membrane). Use kitchen shears or a sharp knife.
3. Cut large gizzards into 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Smaller ones can be left whole.

Why this matters: Trimming removes the rubbery bits and ensures uniform texture. I learned this the hard way—my first batch had some pieces so tough I needed a steak knife.

Step 2: Brine or Marinate (Optional but Recommended)

Gizzards can be slightly gamey. A quick brine or marinade mellows the flavor and tenderizes them. Try:

• Buttermilk brine: Soak for 2-4 hours. The lactic acid tenderizes and adds a subtle tang.
• Soy sauce + garlic + ginger: A 1-hour marinade for an umami kick.
• Lemon juice + olive oil + herbs: For a bright, Mediterranean flavor.

Note: Don’t marinate longer than 24 hours. The enzymes in acidic marinades (like citrus or vinegar) can start to break down the meat too much, making it mushy.

Step 3: Dry and Season

Pat the gizzards dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Then season liberally. Some favorites:

• Smoked paprika + garlic powder + black pepper
• Curry powder + turmeric + cumin
• Chili powder + cayenne + brown sugar (for a sweet-heat twist)

Pro tip: Add a light spray or toss with 1-2 tsp of oil (like avocado or olive oil). This helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning.

Air Fryer Cooking Methods: Recipes and Timing

Now for the fun part: cooking! The key is high heat and minimal oil. Here are three foolproof methods, depending on your flavor preferences.

Classic Crispy Gizzards (No Breading)

What you need:

• 1 lb cleaned gizzards
• 1 tbsp oil (avocado or olive)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

Steps:

1. Toss gizzards with oil and seasonings.
2. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Place in a single layer (don’t overcrowd—use batches if needed).
4. Cook for 12 minutes. Flip halfway.
5. Check for doneness: They should be golden-brown and reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
6. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Result: Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. I serve these with a squeeze of lemon and a side of ranch.

Spicy Buffalo-Style Gizzards

What you need:

• 1 lb gizzards (prepped as above)
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 tbsp melted butter

Steps:

1. Toss gizzards with oil and dry seasonings. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes.
2. Flip, cook 5 more minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix buffalo sauce and butter. Toss gizzards in sauce.
4. Return to air fryer for 2-3 minutes to crisp the sauce.

Serve with blue cheese dip and celery sticks. These are a crowd-pleaser at parties!

Teriyaki Glazed Gizzards (Sweet and Savory)

What you need:

• 1 lb gizzards
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Steps:

1. Season and air fry gizzards at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
2. Whisk teriyaki sauce, honey, and sesame oil in a bowl.
3. Toss cooked gizzards in sauce. Air fry 2-3 more minutes.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.

Perfect over rice or in a stir-fry. The sauce caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with an air fryer, things can go wrong. Here are the pitfalls I’ve learned to avoid:

Mistake 1: Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers need space for hot air to circulate. If you pack gizzards too tightly, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Solution: Cook in batches. For a 5.8-quart air fryer, 1 lb of gizzards is the max. Smaller models? Stick to 8-10 oz per batch.

Real talk: I once tried to cook 2 lbs at once. The result? Some were burnt, others were raw. Lesson learned.

Mistake 2: Skipping the Flip

Air fryers cook from the top down. If you don’t flip gizzards halfway, one side will be overcooked and the other undercooked. Set a timer for the halfway point—no exceptions.

Mistake 3: Underseasoning

Gizzards have a mild flavor. If you skimp on seasoning, they’ll taste bland. Don’t be shy! I use 1-2 tsp of seasoning per pound. Taste as you go and adjust.

Mistake 4: Not Checking Internal Temperature

Color isn’t a reliable doneness indicator. Gizzards can look brown but still be raw inside. Use a meat thermometer. They’re done at 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into a piece—it should be opaque with no pink.

Mistake 5: Overcooking

Gizzards go from tender to tough fast. Once they hit 165°F, pull them out. Resting for 5 minutes helps redistribute juices. Don’t let them sit in the air fryer after cooking—the residual heat will dry them out.

Air Fryer Gizzard Cooking Times and Temperatures (Data Table)

Use this quick-reference guide for perfect gizzards every time. All times are for preheated air fryers (400°F/200°C). Adjust based on your model and gizzard size.

Gizzard Type	Prep	Cook Time (Minutes)	Flip?	Internal Temp
Fresh, whole (1-inch pieces)	Cleaned, trimmed, seasoned	10-12	Yes (at 5-6 min)	165°F (74°C)
Frozen, whole	Thawed, cleaned, seasoned	14-16	Yes (at 7-8 min)	165°F (74°C)
Marinated (2-4 hours)	Pat dry, seasoned	12-14	Yes (at 6-7 min)	165°F (74°C)
With breading (cornstarch)	Breaded, lightly oiled	14-16	Yes (at 7-8 min)	165°F (74°C)

Note: Cooking times vary by air fryer model (Ninja, Cosori, Instant Vortex, etc.). Start with the lower time and add 1-2 minutes if needed.

Serving Ideas and Pairings: Beyond the Basic Plate

Gizzards aren’t just a snack—they’re a versatile ingredient. Here’s how to elevate them:

Appetizers and Snacks

• Gizzard skewers: Thread onto toothpicks with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
• Buffalo gizzard poppers: Stuff with cream cheese and jalapeño. Air fry until golden.
• Spicy gizzard bites: Toss in gochujang (Korean chili paste) and serve with pickled radish.

Main Dishes

• Gizzard tacos: Shred cooked gizzards and serve in corn tortillas with cabbage, salsa, and lime.
• Gizzard fried rice: Stir-fry with rice, peas, carrots, and soy sauce.
• Gizzard and waffles: Top a waffle with crispy gizzards and maple syrup (yes, it’s amazing).

Sides and Sauces

• Air fryer sweet potatoes: Cook alongside gizzards for a hearty meal.
• Garlic aioli: Mix mayo, garlic, lemon, and a pinch of salt.
• Pickled onions: Add brightness and crunch.

Pro tip: Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Conclusion: The Air Fryer Gizzard Revolution

So, can you cook gizzards in an air fryer? Absolutely. In fact, it might be the *ideal* way to cook them. No more rubbery texture, no more flavorless bites, and no more kitchen disasters. Just crispy, tender, flavorful gizzards in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re a gizzard newbie or a seasoned fan, the air fryer unlocks their full potential.

The best part? It’s foolproof. With a little prep, the right timing, and a few seasoning tricks, you’ll have a dish that’s healthier, tastier, and easier than any other method. I’ve converted skeptics, won over kids, and even had friends beg for the recipe. And now? It’s your turn. Grab your air fryer, head to the store, and give gizzards a chance. You might just discover your new favorite protein.

Remember: Cooking is about experimentation. Don’t be afraid to tweak the seasonings, try new sauces, or play with textures. The air fryer is forgiving, and gizzards are resilient. Happy cooking—and don’t forget to share your creations!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook gizzards in an air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely cook gizzards in an air fryer! This method yields crispy, tender results with minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. Just season, preheat, and air fry for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

How long does it take to cook chicken gizzards in an air fryer?

Cooking chicken gizzards in an air fryer typically takes 15–20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Shake the basket halfway through for even crispiness, and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Do I need to boil gizzards before air frying?

Boiling isn’t required but can help tenderize tougher gizzards. For quicker air frying, parboil for 10–15 minutes, then season and crisp in the air fryer for 8–10 minutes.

What’s the best way to season air fryer gizzards?

Marinate or toss gizzards in spices like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper before air frying. A light spray of oil helps the seasoning stick and enhances crispiness during cooking.

Can you overcook gizzards in an air fryer?

Yes, overcooking can make gizzards rubbery or tough. Stick to 15–20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) and check for doneness early if your gizzards are smaller or pre-boiled.

Are air fryer gizzards healthier than fried gizzards?

Air fryer gizzards use up to 80% less oil than deep frying, reducing fat and calories. They retain flavor and texture while being a smarter choice for heart-healthy meals.