Name: Thai Chicken Liver Stir-Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 300g chicken livers, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4–6 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced or crushed (adjust to taste); 1 small onion or 2 shallots, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp soy sauce; 1/2 tsp sugar; 1/2 cup Thai basil or holy basil leaves; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1–2 tbsp water or chicken broth (optional); Steamed jasmine rice, for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with authentic Thai flavor. If you enjoy offal or are curious about trying it, chicken liver is a nutrient-dense, affordable ingredient that cooks in minutes. The combination of heat from Thai chilies, richness from the liver, and the depth of fish sauce and herbs makes this dish truly irresistible for lovers of Thai cuisine. It’s also naturally gluten-free and low in carbs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken livers (cleaned and trimmed)
Garlic (minced)
Thai bird’s eye chilies (sliced or crushed)
Onion or shallot (sliced)
Fish sauce
Oyster sauce
Soy sauce
Sugar
Thai basil (or holy basil)
Vegetable oil
Jasmine rice (for serving)
Water or chicken broth (optional, to adjust consistency)

Directions

Prepare the chicken livers: Rinse, trim, and cut the chicken livers into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels.
Heat the oil: In a wok or skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the garlic and chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add onions and liver: Toss in the sliced onion or shallots and cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly softened. Add the chicken livers and stir-fry quickly, searing the outside.
Season: Add fish sauce, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well to coat the livers and let them cook for 3–4 more minutes, just until the inside is cooked through but still tender.
Finish with herbs: Add Thai basil and stir just until wilted. If needed, add a splash of water or broth to make a bit of sauce.
Serve: Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–3 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Less Spicy: Reduce or omit the chilies for a milder version.
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, green beans, or baby corn for more texture and color.
More Sauce: Add a splash of chicken broth and a little cornstarch slurry for a saucier version.
Herb Swap: Use sweet Thai basil or fresh cilantro if you can’t find holy basil.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until hot. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the liver rubbery. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

Is chicken liver healthy?

Yes, chicken liver is high in iron, vitamin A, B12, and protein. It’s considered a nutrient-dense food when eaten in moderation.

How do I clean chicken liver?

Rinse under cold water, remove any connective tissue or fat, and pat dry with paper towels. Trim off any discolored parts.

What does chicken liver taste like?

It has a rich, slightly metallic flavor with a creamy texture. When stir-fried with Thai seasonings, the flavors are balanced beautifully.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh. Chicken liver doesn’t hold its texture well when reheated multiple times.

Is this dish spicy?

Traditionally, yes, but you can control the heat by using fewer or milder chilies.

What can I serve with Thai chicken liver stir-fry?

Steamed jasmine rice is the classic pairing, but it also works with sticky rice or a side of stir-fried vegetables.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce and fish sauce are gluten-free.

What oil is best for stir-frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.

Conclusion

Thai Chicken Liver Stir-Fry is a bold and flavorful dish that turns a humble ingredient into something truly special. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for adventurous eaters who want to enjoy authentic Thai flavors in a nutritious, budget-friendly meal. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite