Chicken liver is highly nutritious and valued for its delicate texture and earthy flavor. They are considered a delicacy in different cultures and can be found fresh or frozen in grocery stores. These organs are rich in vitamins and minerals, especially iron, vitamin A and B vitamins. Chicken livers can be sautéed, roasted or pan-fried and used in spreads, pâtés, stews, stir-fries and salads. For optimal flavor and texture, proper cleaning and trimming is necessary.
How to judge whether chicken liver is good or bad?
First, look at the color. Fresh chicken liver has a smooth surface and a deep reddish brown color. If the livers turn green, gray, or chalky in appearance, it's time to throw them away. Then there's the smell. Fresh chicken livers have a clean, slightly metallic smell without a strong smell. If they smell sour, musty, or strongly metallic, they've probably gone bad. Finally, feel the texture. Fresh chicken livers are moist but not slimy. A slimy surface is a telltale sign of putrefaction.
Tips for storing chicken livers to extend shelf life
- If you store raw or cooked chicken livers in the refrigerator, make sure the refrigerator temperature is 40°F (4°C) or below to maintain optimal freshness at both stages.
- If you store chicken livers in the refrigerator, make sure the refrigerator temperature is 32°F (0°C) or below.
- The best way to store fresh chicken livers is in the refrigerator. Cook chicken livers while they are fresh, which will be within 1-2 days of your first purchase.
- Cook only what your family will eat for the next few nights. Don't overcook the chicken livers or you'll have to throw away the cooked chicken livers after four days in the refrigerator, or you'll have to freeze the cooked chicken livers to keep them fresh when you're in the mood. Eat it again.
- If you decide to freeze cooked chicken livers, be prepared for a completely different flavor and texture, and they may not be as edible as they would be if cooked fresh.
- When you freeze chicken livers, be sure to place them in a colander and pat them dry with paper towels to drain away any excess moisture. Depending on how much chicken liver you need for each subsequent meal, place it in a freezer bag. After completing these steps, you can place them in the refrigerator.
Can you freeze chicken livers?
Although the quality of chicken livers may not be as tasty as cooked fresh chicken livers, you can still freeze raw chicken livers in the refrigerator at 32°F (0°C) or lower.
When does chicken liver expire?
Chicken livers, like other offal, are perishable and should be handled with care. If unopened and stored in the refrigerator, fresh chicken livers can be kept for 1-2 days after the "use by" date printed on the package. Once opened, it should be used within 24 hours. If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a good option. Store in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 4 months.
How long do cooked chicken livers last in the refrigerator?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Refrigerator and Freezer Storage Charts, cooked chicken livers can be stored in the refrigerator for at least three days but up to four days from the date of initial cooking.
You must keep the refrigerator temperature at 40°F (4°C) or lower for chicken livers to stay fresh for longer.
