Chicken livers in onion sauce are one of those classic recipes that bring the simple and authentic taste of homemade cooking straight to the plate. With a tender texture and a slightly sweet sauce made from caramelized onions, this dish is perfect for those moments when you want a quick meal that is still full of flavor. Slowly sautéed onions, cooked until golden and lightly caramelized, give the sauce a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the taste of the tender chicken livers.
This recipe is very versatile and can be served alongside polenta, mashed potatoes, or rice, making it an ideal option both for a hearty lunch and for a cozy family dinner. Easy to prepare and made with accessible ingredients, chicken livers in onion sauce are an excellent choice for those who appreciate the simple and authentic flavors of traditional cuisine.
Ingredients
500 g chicken livers
2–3 large onions
2–3 tablespoons oil or butter
3–4 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
200 ml chicken broth or water
1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Livers
Wash the chicken livers thoroughly and let them drain in a strainer. If the livers have larger pieces, you can cut them so they cook more evenly.
In a deep pan, heat the oil or butter and add the finely chopped onions. Sauté the onions on low heat until they become golden and soft, about 10–15 minutes. It is important to cook the onions slowly so they turn sweet and properly caramelized.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken Livers
Add the chopped garlic and paprika (if desired) to the pan, stirring for a few seconds until the garlic releases its aroma.
Place the chicken livers in the pan and cook them on medium heat, stirring gently, until they change color and are browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 3: Preparing the Onion Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth or water, just enough to cover the livers. Let the dish simmer on low heat for another 10–15 minutes, until the livers are tender and the sauce has reduced, forming a creamy texture.
Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as preferred.
Step 4: Finishing and Serving
At the end, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and serve the dish hot.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken livers in onion sauce are usually served with polenta, mashed potatoes, or rice, to complete this delicious meal. The sweet onion sauce and the tender texture of the livers make this recipe an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner.
To balance the creamy mashed potatoes and the rich taste of the livers in onion sauce, a fresh and light salad is ideal. Here are some great options:
Cucumber and tomato salad with green onion: A simple and refreshing salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, green onions, and chopped parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for an acidic touch that complements the mashed potatoes.
Green salad with lemon and dill: Fresh spinach leaves, dill, and a light vinaigrette made with lemon juice and olive oil are excellent for adding freshness to the plate.
White cabbage and carrot salad: A crunchy salad of cabbage and carrot, seasoned with salt, pepper, and vinegar or lemon juice, adds both crispiness and acidity, balancing the creamy texture of the mash.
Roasted pepper salad: Roasted peppers bring a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the taste of chicken livers and mashed potatoes. Add garlic, chopped parsley, and a light dressing of oil and balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
Assorted pickled vegetables: If you prefer a stronger flavor and a combination of tastes, assorted pickles (pickled cucumbers, green tomatoes, sauerkraut) are perfect for accompanying chicken livers with mash, offering contrast and richness.
These salads are simple, light, and add freshness, contrasting beautifully with the main dish for a balanced and flavorful meal.
Beverage Pairings
To complement the taste of chicken livers in onion sauce, you can choose a drink that balances the sweet and slightly intense flavors of the dish. Here are some suitable options:
Dry or semi-dry white wine: A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, will bring freshness and balance the sweetness of the caramelized onions. If you prefer something fruitier, choose a semi-dry wine.
Light red wine: If you enjoy red wine, go for a light one, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot. These wines have a fine texture and fruity aromas that pair well with poultry dishes.
Țuică or pălincă: In Romanian tradition, chicken livers can be accompanied by a small glass of țuică or pălincă, which offers a strong note that goes well with the taste of the dish.
Blonde beer: A light and refreshing blonde beer can be an excellent choice to go with this dish, especially when served in a relaxed lunch setting.
Sparkling water with lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness of the dish, making it a simple and effective choice.
These beverages perfectly complement the flavor of chicken livers in onion sauce, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.
Why is this Chicken Livers in Onion Sauce recipe so popular?
Chicken livers in onion sauce are appreciated for their simplicity and quick preparation. The sweet taste of caramelized onions, combined with the tender texture of the livers, transforms this dish into a classic of home cooking, perfect for quick lunches or family dinners.
What are the main tips for getting tender and delicious chicken livers?
Wash the chicken livers thoroughly and let them drain before cooking. Cook them over medium heat and avoid over-frying, as they can become tough. Adding liquid, such as chicken broth, helps maintain their tenderness.
How can you achieve a perfectly caramelized onion sauce?
The secret to a perfect onion sauce is cooking the onions slowly over low heat, stirring constantly, until they turn golden and soft. Using a small amount of brown sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the natural sweetness of the onions.
What other ingredients can be added to diversify the recipe?
For extra flavor, you can add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or chopped tomatoes. A splash of white wine or cooking cream can also bring another layer of taste to the sauce.
How can Chicken Livers in Onion Sauce be adapted for special diets?
For a healthier version, use olive oil instead of butter and serve the dish with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad instead of traditional sides like mashed potatoes or polenta.
What are the best side dishes for this recipe?
Chicken livers in onion sauce go perfectly with polenta, mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. They can also be served with fresh bread or a crunchy salad to add freshness to the meal.
How can the sauce be adjusted for a creamier texture?
Adding a spoonful of sour cream or a bit of butter at the end of cooking can improve the texture of the sauce, giving it a creamier consistency and a richer flavor.
What drinks pair best with this dish?
A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing blonde beer, are excellent options. If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors well.
How can this dish be stored and reheated?
Chicken livers in onion sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2–3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little liquid to keep the sauce creamy.
What regional variations exist for this recipe?
In some regions of Romania, smoked paprika or chopped parsley is added for extra flavor. In Transylvanian cuisine, the livers are often served with sour cream, while in Oltenia, they are accompanied by hot peppers for a more intense taste.
