Everything from what they are, to why they’re good for you, and how to cook chicken giblets
When it comes to using every part of the bird, chicken giblets are an often overlooked gem. But here at Herb Fed Poultry, we believe in celebrating the whole bird – not just because it’s sustainable, but because it’s delicious.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just curious about that little bag of bits inside a whole chicken, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about chicken giblets. Yes, we know the name sounds like something you’d read in a Charles Dickens novel, but read on and you’ll discover a whole new world of chicken-related info!
Chicken giblets typically include the heart, liver, gizzard, and neck (and sometimes the kidneys).
Each part has a distinct texture and flavour, and they’ve been a staple in traditional cooking for generations – from British gravies and stuffing to continental pâtés and broths.
Chicken Liver Pate
Yes, chicken giblets are very nutritious. Here’s why:
Note: Liver is especially nutrient-dense – great in small portions, but moderation is key due to its high vitamin A content.
*Did you know that ALL Herb Fed Christmas poultry comes with giblets included. If you’d like to try them, we sell them separately too… Herb Fed Chicken Liver – Herb Fed Poultry
Each giblet has a unique flavour and texture:
There are loads of ways to enjoy giblets – here are some of our favourites:
Giblets are amazing in homemade stock. Just pop them in a pot with water, onion, carrots, herbs, and seasoning, and simmer for 1–2 hours. Strain and use as a base for soup, risotto, or gravy.
Fry chopped liver, heart, and gizzard with butter, onions, garlic, and herbs for a rich, rustic dish. Serve on toast or with mash for a countryside classic.
A traditional British favourite! Cook the livers gently with shallots and brandy, then blend with butter until silky smooth. Serve with crusty bread and a dollop of chutney.
Finely chopped giblets add depth of flavour to stuffing mixes or meat pies – a nod to traditional farmhouse cooking.
Yes – many pet owners use giblets as part of a raw or cooked diet for dogs and cats. They’re high in nutrients and generally safe, but always check with your vet, and avoid seasoned or heavily spiced recipes.
Giblets can be hard to find in supermarkets – which is why shopping with a reputable supplier matters. Herb Fed sells chicken giblets – shop here! At Herb Fed Poultry, our chickens roam freely in Yorkshire fields, munching on a unique diet of over 10 fresh herbs.
Explore Our Range of Whole Chickens here…
It’s a shame, but many modern shoppers just don’t know what giblets are – or how to use them. That’s why they’re often discarded. But using the whole bird is not only more sustainable, it’s economical and delicious.
So next time you get giblets – give them a try. We bet you’ll be surprised!
From flavourful gravies to rich pâtés, chicken giblets are a hidden treasure in the kitchen. They’re packed with nutrition, full of traditional charm, and they support a more sustainable, whole-bird approach to eating.
Ready to give giblets a go? Whether you’re cooking up stock, grilling hearts, or whipping up pâté, you’ll find all the quality you need right here at Herb Fed Poultry – one of the UK’s leading free-range poultry suppliers.
