Chicken Gizzard Ginataan Recipe

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Josie Baker
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Why You’ll Love Chicken Gizzard Ginataan

Chicken Gizzard Ginataan is a comforting Filipino dish that brings together tender chicken gizzards, creamy coconut milk, and fresh vegetables in one satisfying pan. If you like meals that are budget-friendly, filling, and full of flavor, this recipe is a great one to keep on repeat. It uses simple ingredients, cooks in one pot and one wok, and tastes even better with warm rice.

  • Easy to cook: The steps are straightforward. First, boil the gizzards until tender, then sauté with garlic, ginger, and onion before simmering in coconut milk.
  • Good for many diets: Coconut milk gives a creamy texture without dairy, which is helpful for lactose-intolerant eaters.
  • Hearty and filling: Chicken gizzards are rich in protein, so this dish can keep you full for longer.
  • Bold flavor: Fish sauce, black pepper, ginger, garlic, and bay leaves give the dish a deep savory taste that pairs well with rice.
Coconut milk, kangkong leaves, and bell pepper do more than add flavor. They also bring color, texture, and a nice balance to the rich gizzards.

For more comforting rice meals, you may also like recipes from the main blog and other homestyle dishes that work well for family dinners.

Recipe DetailInformation
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time1 hour 20 minutes
Servings4
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Essential Ingredients for Chicken Gizzard Ginataan

Gather all the ingredients below before you start cooking. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and helps the flavors come together nicely.

  • 3 pounds chicken gizzard – This is the main protein and the heart of the dish.
  • 2 cups coconut milk – Adds creaminess and creates the rich ginataan sauce.
  • 1 bunch kangkong leaves – Brings freshness, color, and a light leafy crunch.
  • 1 red bell pepper – Adds sweetness, color, and a soft crisp bite.
  • 1 minced onion – Gives the base flavor a sweet and savory depth.
  • 2 minced thumbs ginger – Adds warmth and helps balance the richness of the coconut milk.
  • 5 minced cloves garlic – Builds a strong aromatic foundation.
  • 3 bay leaves – Adds a subtle herbal taste during boiling.
  • 3 tablespoons cooking oil – Used for sautéing the aromatics and gizzards.
  • 1 quart water – Used to boil and tenderize the gizzards.
  • Fish sauce – Seasons the dish with savory umami flavor.
  • Ground black pepper – Adds a warm, peppery finish.

Special Dietary Options

  • Vegan: Swap the chicken gizzards for king oyster mushrooms or tofu, and use a vegan fish sauce alternative.
  • Gluten-free: This dish is naturally gluten-free as written, but always check your fish sauce label.
  • Low-calorie: Use light coconut milk and add more kangkong leaves to reduce the richness a bit.

How to Prepare the Perfect Chicken Gizzard Ginataan: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Clean and prep the gizzards

Start by rinsing the 3 pounds of chicken gizzards well under running water. If needed, trim away any visible fat or tough bits. This small prep step helps the final dish taste cleaner and smoother. Set the gizzards aside while you get the pot ready.

Second Step: Boil the gizzards until tender

Pour 1 quart water into a pot and bring it to a boil. Add the 3 bay leaves and the chicken gizzards. Lower the heat to medium and let the gizzards cook for 35 to 45 minutes, or until they turn tender. The slow simmer is important because gizzards need time to soften. If you rush this part, the texture can stay chewy.

Once the gizzards are tender, remove them from the pot and set them aside. You can discard the cooking liquid or save a small amount in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Third Step: Sauté the aromatics

Heat 3 tablespoons cooking oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the 5 minced cloves garlic, 2 minced thumbs ginger, and 1 minced onion. Stir them often and cook until softened and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of Chicken Gizzard Ginataan, so give it a few minutes and do not rush it.

The kitchen should start smelling amazing at this stage. The garlic brings sharp flavor, the ginger gives warmth, and the onion adds natural sweetness.

Fourth Step: Add the boiled gizzards

Put the boiled chicken gizzards into the wok and sauté for about 2 minutes. Stir them around so they pick up the flavor from the aromatics. This short sauté helps the gizzards absorb the seasoning before the coconut milk goes in.

If the gizzards look a little dry, you can add a small splash of water, but keep the amount light so the sauce stays rich later.

Fifth Step: Pour in the coconut milk

Add the 2 cups coconut milk to the wok. Stir well, then let it simmer gently. Keep the heat at medium or medium-low so the coconut milk does not break too quickly. Let the sauce cook until it reduces by about half. This usually gives you a thicker, creamier sauce that coats the gizzards nicely.

Take your time with the coconut milk. A slow simmer gives you a richer sauce and helps the flavor settle into every bite.

Sixth Step: Add the vegetables

Once the sauce has reduced, add the sliced or chopped 1 red bell pepper. Cook it for about 2 minutes so it stays slightly crisp and bright. Then add the 1 bunch kangkong leaves. Stir gently and let the leaves wilt into the sauce. Kangkong cooks fast, so only give it a short time in the pan.

The bell pepper adds sweetness and color, while the kangkong gives the dish a fresh and leafy finish. Together, they balance the rich coconut milk and savory gizzards.

Seventh Step: Season to taste

Season the dish with fish sauce and ground black pepper to taste. Start with a little, stir, then taste before adding more. Coconut milk softens seasoning, so it is smart to adjust slowly. If you want a stronger savory flavor, add a little more fish sauce. If you like a bolder finish, add extra black pepper.

Final Step: Plate and serve

Transfer the finished Chicken Gizzard Ginataan to a serving plate or bowl. Serve it hot with warm rice. The sauce tastes best when it is still creamy and fresh from the stove. This recipe makes a comforting meal for 4 people and works well for lunch or dinner.


Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chicken Gizzard Ginataan

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If chicken gizzard is not available, you still have a few good options. Chicken liver, chicken heart, or even sliced chicken thighs can work if you want a softer texture. If you want a plant-based version, use firm tofu, tempeh, or king oyster mushrooms. These substitutes soak up the coconut milk sauce well and still give you a filling dish.

For travelers or busy parents who need quick swaps, pre-cleaned chicken gizzards from the butcher can save time. If you are using another protein, adjust the boiling or simmering time so it becomes tender without getting tough.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

You can switch kangkong leaves for spinach, pechay, or even malunggay leaves if that is what you have at home. Green beans and carrots also work if you want more crunch. For a deeper flavor, some cooks add a small spoonful of shrimp paste, but keep it optional if you want a milder dish.

For a lighter sauce, use light coconut milk or add a little more water near the end. If you want less salt, reduce the fish sauce and let the garlic, ginger, and bay leaves do more of the work. This recipe is flexible, so you can adjust it based on what is in your kitchen.

Mastering Chicken Gizzard Ginataan: Advanced Tips and Variations

To get the best texture, cook the gizzards slowly until they are truly tender. If they still feel chewy, give them a little more time in the pot before adding the coconut milk. You can also use a pressure cooker if you want to shorten the tenderizing step, but keep an eye on the texture so they do not fall apart.

For a richer taste, let the coconut milk simmer until it thickens slightly before adding the vegetables. If you like more heat, add sliced chili peppers with the garlic and ginger. If you want a more fragrant version, toss in a little lemongrass or more bay leaves while boiling the gizzards.

When serving, use a shallow bowl and spoon extra sauce over the top. A little fresh ground black pepper on the finished dish makes the aroma pop. If you want a nice family-style meal, serve it with a big bowl of warm rice in the center of the table.

For make-ahead cooking, boil the gizzards earlier in the day and store them in the fridge until you are ready to finish the dish. That way, dinner comes together faster on busy nights.

How to Store Chicken Gizzard Ginataan: Best Practices

Chicken Gizzard Ginataan keeps well in the fridge for short-term storage. Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them for up to 3 days. Before reheating, give it a quick smell check. If anything smells off, do not eat it.

For freezing, cool the dish completely first, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. The coconut milk may separate a little when thawed, but a gentle stir while reheating usually helps. Freeze for up to 1 month for the best quality.

To reheat, use low to medium heat on the stove or warm it in the microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of water if the sauce gets too thick. For meal prep, keep rice and ginataan in separate containers so the texture stays better when stored.

Chicken Gizzard Ginataan

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Gizzard Ginataan

What is chicken gizzard ginataan?

Chicken gizzard ginataan is a creamy Filipino stew made with tender chicken gizzards cooked in rich coconut milk. It features kangkong (water spinach) leaves and bell peppers for added crunch and freshness, balancing the savory meatiness. This dish shines because coconut milk adds creaminess without dairy, making it ideal for lactose-intolerant eaters. Start by sautéing garlic, onions, and ginger, then simmer 3 pounds of cleaned gizzards until soft—about 45-60 minutes. Season with fish sauce, pepper, and optional shrimp paste for authentic umami. Serve hot over rice for a comforting meal that serves 6-8 people. It’s a budget-friendly way to use affordable organ meats while delivering bold, tropical flavors in one pot.

What ingredients are needed for chicken gizzard ginataan?

For chicken gizzard ginataan serving 6-8, gather 3 pounds chicken gizzards (cleaned and sliced), 4 cups coconut milk, 2 bunches kangkong leaves (stems removed), 2 bell peppers (sliced), 1 large onion (chopped), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1 thumb ginger (sliced), 2 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tsp black pepper, and 2 tbsp oil. Optional: 1 tbsp bagoong (shrimp paste) for depth. Rinse gizzards thoroughly to remove grit. Use full-fat coconut milk for best creaminess. Prep veggies just before adding to keep them crisp. These simple pantry staples make the dish quick to assemble—total cost under $15. Adjust salt after simmering as coconut milk mellows flavors.

How do you cook chicken gizzard ginataan?

Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant (2-3 minutes). Add 3 pounds cleaned chicken gizzards; stir-fry 5 minutes. Pour in 4 cups coconut milk, 2 tbsp fish sauce, and pepper; bring to boil then simmer covered for 45-60 minutes until gizzards are fork-tender. Stir in sliced bell peppers and kangkong leaves; cook 3-5 more minutes until wilted but crisp. Taste and adjust seasoning. Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes. Tip: Pressure cook gizzards first for 20 minutes if short on time, then finish in coconut milk. Avoid overcooking veggies. Serves hot with steamed rice—leftovers reheat well with a splash of water.

How long does chicken gizzard ginataan take to cook?

Chicken gizzard ginataan takes about 1 hour 15 minutes total: 15 minutes prep and 60 minutes cooking. Cleaning and slicing 3 pounds of gizzards takes 10 minutes; sautéing aromatics adds 5 minutes. Simmering gizzards in coconut milk requires 45-60 minutes on stovetop to reach tenderness—their chewy texture needs slow cooking. Add bell peppers and kangkong for just 3-5 minutes at the end. For faster results, use an Instant Pot: 25 minutes high pressure for gizzards, plus 10 minutes natural release. Slow cooker option: 4-6 hours on low after sautéing. Patience yields melt-in-mouth results. Plan ahead—gizzards soften better with acidic marinades like vinegar overnight.

Is chicken gizzard ginataan healthy?

Yes, chicken gizzard ginataan is nutritious and fits balanced diets. One serving (about 1 cup) provides 25g protein from lean gizzards, rich in iron (20% DV), zinc, and B12 for energy and immunity. Coconut milk adds healthy MCT fats for satiety, while kangkong and bell peppers deliver vitamins A, C, and fiber (4g per serving, aiding digestion). At 350 calories per portion, it’s lower-carb than creamy curries. Low sodium if you control fish sauce. Drawback: higher cholesterol from organ meat, so limit to 4oz daily. Make it healthier by using light coconut milk or adding more greens. Pairs well with brown rice for sustained energy—great for weight management or post-workout meals.
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Chicken Gizzard Ginataan

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🍲 Creamy coconut milk bathes tender chicken gizzards with fresh kangkong and peppers – hearty, affordable Filipino comfort in one pot!
🐔 Protein powerhouse offal dish that’s nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for budget-friendly family meals.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

– 3 pounds chicken gizzard for main protein

– 2 cups coconut milk for creaminess and rich ginataan sauce

– 1 bunch kangkong leaves for freshness, color, and leafy crunch

– 1 red bell pepper for sweetness, color, and crisp bite

– 1 minced onion for base flavor

– 2 minced thumbs ginger for warmth and balance

– 5 minced cloves garlic for aromatic foundation

– 3 bay leaves for subtle herbal taste

– 3 tablespoons cooking oil for sautéing aromatics and gizzards

– 1 quart water for boiling and tenderizing gizzards

– Fish sauce for savory umami flavor

– Ground black pepper for peppery finish

Instructions

1-First Step: Clean and prep the gizzards Start by rinsing the 3 pounds of chicken gizzards well under running water. If needed, trim away any visible fat or tough bits. This small prep step helps the final dish taste cleaner and smoother. Set the gizzards aside while you get the pot ready.

2-Second Step: Boil the gizzards until tender Pour 1 quart water into a pot and bring it to a boil. Add the 3 bay leaves and the chicken gizzards. Lower the heat to medium and let the gizzards cook for 35 to 45 minutes, or until they turn tender. The slow simmer is important because gizzards need time to soften. If you rush this part, the texture can stay chewy. Once the gizzards are tender, remove them from the pot and set them aside. You can discard the cooking liquid or save a small amount in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

3-Third Step: Sauté the aromatics Heat 3 tablespoons cooking oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the 5 minced cloves garlic, 2 minced thumbs ginger, and 1 minced onion. Stir them often and cook until softened and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of Chicken Gizzard Ginataan, so give it a few minutes and do not rush it. The kitchen should start smelling amazing at this stage. The garlic brings sharp flavor, the ginger gives warmth, and the onion adds natural sweetness.

4-Fourth Step: Add the boiled gizzards Put the boiled chicken gizzards into the wok and sauté for about 2 minutes. Stir them around so they pick up the flavor from the aromatics. This short sauté helps the gizzards absorb the seasoning before the coconut milk goes in. If the gizzards look a little dry, you can add a small splash of water, but keep the amount light so the sauce stays rich later.

5-Fifth Step: Pour in the coconut milk Add the 2 cups coconut milk to the wok. Stir well, then let it simmer gently. Keep the heat at medium or medium-low so the coconut milk does not break too quickly. Let the sauce cook until it reduces by about half. This usually gives you a thicker, creamier sauce that coats the gizzards nicely.

6-Sixth Step: Add the vegetables Once the sauce has reduced, add the sliced or chopped 1 red bell pepper. Cook it for about 2 minutes so it stays slightly crisp and bright. Then add the 1 bunch kangkong leaves. Stir gently and let the leaves wilt into the sauce. Kangkong cooks fast, so only give it a short time in the pan. The bell pepper adds sweetness and color, while the kangkong gives the dish a fresh and leafy finish. Together, they balance the rich coconut milk and savory gizzards.

7-Seventh Step: Season to taste Season the dish with fish sauce and ground black pepper to taste. Start with a little, stir, then taste before adding more. Coconut milk softens seasoning, so it is smart to adjust slowly. If you want a stronger savory flavor, add a little more fish sauce. If you like a bolder finish, add extra black pepper.

8-Final Step: Plate and serve Transfer the finished Chicken Gizzard Ginataan to a serving plate or bowl. Serve it hot with warm rice. The sauce tastes best when it is still creamy and fresh from the stove. This recipe makes a comforting meal for 4 people and works well for lunch or dinner.

Last Step:

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Notes

🥬 Rinse kangkong thoroughly and add at the end to keep its crunch and vibrant color.
🧂 Start with less fish sauce and adjust at the end, as coconut milk enhances saltiness.
❄️ Leftovers keep in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water to revive creaminess.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Simmer
  • Cuisine: Filipino

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 530mg
  • Fat: 46g
  • Saturated Fat: 25g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 21g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 67g
  • Cholesterol: 922mg

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