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Romanian Pan-Fried Chicken Liver and Onions Recipe
This traditional Romanian pan-fried chicken liver and onions recipe is a quick, budget-friendly, and flavorful dish. Tender chicken liver, sautéed onions, and a hint of paprika create a rich, comforting meal. Perfect with mashed potatoes or polenta, this dish is full of iron and essential nutrients. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) chicken liver (cleaned and trimmed)
- 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp sweet red wine or brandy (optional)
- 1 tbsp sweet paprika
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Liver
- Wash the chicken liver thoroughly, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- Remove any excess fat or greenish sacs (gallbladders) to prevent bitterness.
- Cut the liver into bite-sized pieces.
Sauté the Onions
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook until they turn soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken Liver
- Add the chicken liver to the pan and stir gently.
- Sprinkle in the paprika and mix well.
- Cover the pan with a lid and let the liver cook for 7-8 minutes over medium-low heat.
- Do not overcook the liver, or it will become tough and dry.
Enhance the Flavor
- Remove the lid and allow any excess liquid to evaporate.
- If using, add red wine or brandy and let the alcohol burn off (2-3 minutes).
- Turn off the heat and season with salt and black pepper (only at the end to keep the liver tender).
Serve & Enjoy!
- Plate the chicken liver and onions, garnishing with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.
Notes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
✔ Rich in flavor – The combination of caramelized onions, tender chicken liver, and a touch of sweetness makes this dish irresistible. ✔ Budget-friendly – Uses inexpensive ingredients and serves up restaurant-quality taste at home. ✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. ✔ Nutritious – Packed with iron, vitamins, and protein, chicken liver is a nutritional powerhouse. ✔ Authentic Romanian cuisine – Experience the traditional flavors of Romania with this time-honored recipe.Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Liver
⭐ Don’t add salt while cooking – Salt toughens the liver; always add it at the end. ⭐ Use low-medium heat – This ensures a soft, creamy texture instead of a dry, rubbery consistency. ⭐ Add a touch of brandy or wine – It brings out the liver’s natural sweetness and deepens the flavor. ⭐ Pair it with a starch – Creamy mashed potatoes or polenta perfectly balance the richness of the dish.Serving Suggestions
This Romanian-style chicken liver is best served with comforting sides that complement its rich flavors:- Creamy mashed potatoes – A classic pairing for the perfect bite.
- Polenta (Mămăligă) – A traditional Romanian favorite.
- Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping into the onion sauce.
- Steamed vegetables – Adds freshness and balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
While chicken liver is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers carefully to maintain their flavor and texture.How to Store Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the liver will change.
How to Reheat
- Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
- Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the liver.