Chicken livers are a nutritious and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes However, like any meat, proper storage after cooking is essential to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about safely storing cooked chicken livers.
Why Proper Storage of Cooked Livers is Important
Raw chicken livers are highly perishable and need to be cooked thoroughly to destroy any pathogens that may be present. Once cooked, livers also need to be stored with care to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microbes that can still cause food poisoning.
Some of the most common pathogens that can grow on improperly stored cooked chicken livers include Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Clostridium perfringens. Proper refrigeration prevents the multiplication of these bacteria to dangerous levels. Let’s look at some recommended storage methods and times for cooked livers.
How to Store Cooked Chicken Livers
Refrigeration
Refrigerating cooked chicken livers is the best way to store them safely. Some tips for fridge storage include:
-
Allow livers to cool completely before refrigerating. Divide into shallow containers or spread in a thin layer on a plate. Avoid storing livers in a large heap, which prevents rapid cooling.
-
Place livers in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil This prevents the food from drying out and blocks contaminants.
-
Store livers on a shelf toward the back of the refrigerator, not in the door. The back is colder.
-
Use cooked livers within 2-3 days for maximum freshness and food safety. Discard any livers with an off smell or slimy appearance.
Freezing
For longer term storage, freeze cooked chicken livers for 3-4 months. Here are some freezing tips:
-
First quickly chill livers in the refrigerator before freezing. Freeze within 2 days of cooking.
-
Portion livers into airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. This prevents freezer burn.
-
Label packages with the date and contents. Place in coldest part of freezer, which is below 0°F.
-
When ready to use, thaw frozen livers overnight in the fridge. Do not thaw at room temperature. Cook immediately after thawing.
Canning
Canning cooked chicken livers in sterilized jars is another long-term preservation method. Follow a tested canning recipe and process filled jars in a water bath canner for the recommended time to destroy any remaining bacteria. Refrigerate after opening.
Dehydration
Dehydrating is a way to preserve cooked chicken livers without freezing. Prepare livers by cooking, cooling, and patting dry. Arrange in a single layer on dehydrator trays and dry at 145°F for 6-8 hours until completely hardened. Store in airtight containers. Rehydrate by simmering in liquid before use.
How Long Do Cooked Chicken Livers Last?
How long cooked chicken livers keep depends on the storage method. Here are some general guidelines for maximizing shelf life:
-
Refrigerator: 2 to 3 days
-
Freezer: 3 to 4 months
-
Canned: 1 year or longer if processed correctly
-
Dehydrated: 4 to 6 months in airtight storage
No matter the storage method, it’s important to discard chicken livers that develop an off odor, flavor or appearance. Always follow the basic rule of thumb – when in doubt, throw it out.
Tips for Using Up Leftover Cooked Livers
To avoid waste, use up leftover cooked chicken livers within a few days. Here are some delicious ways to use them:
-
Chop and add to pasta sauces, gravies or soups.
-
Spread on crackers or toast points as an appetizer.
-
Make chicken liver pâté and serve with bread, apples or celery.
-
Fry up with onions for a quick liver and onion side dish.
-
Puree with herbs and spices to make a creamy liver mousse dip.
-
Make dirty rice by sautéing livers with rice, onions and spices.
With proper refrigeration and freezing, cooked chicken livers can keep for several days to months. But for ultimate freshness and food safety, use leftover livers as soon as possible. Follow these tips for safe storage and quick use to get the most out of this healthy, tender meat.
Why I love this recipe
- Quick to cook up. I often cook these up for a quick weeknight meal as they need very little prep time. Paired with some spuds and veggies, they make a well-balanced dinner.
- Superfood. Chicken liver (or any liver, really) is packed with nutrients (source). It’s high in iron (72%!), selenium (122%), folate, vitamins, and of course, protein and healthy fats.
- Perfect texture. My tried and true family recipe guarantees no chewy livers.
★★★★★ REVIEW
“I prepared this recipe last week and wow, what can I say instead of thank you! It was delicious.” – Mario
- Chicken livers. Always choose fresh and clean liver that has no added flavorings or sinew. I prefer to get my liver from the butcher as they pre-clean them and are naturally juicier and larger.
- Olive oil. The base for the marinade. Vegetable oil or any neutral-flavored oil works.
- Lemon juice. You must have an acidic element to tenderize the meat. I prefer fresh lemon juice, but lime juice or even orange juice works well too.
- Soy sauce. Gives an umami-forward flavor to the marinade.
- Kosher Salt and black pepper. To season.
- Butter. To pan-fry the livers.
How to cook chicken livers
I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Step 1– dry the livers on a paper towel. In a large bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken livers to the bowl and ensure they are evenly coated.
Step 2– Thread the chicken livers onto a bamboo skewer and season the organ meat with salt and pepper.
Step 3- Heat a large skillet or grill pan on medium heat and brush with olive oil. When hot, saute the chicken livers for 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 4- Remove the chicken livers from the skewers and serve.
Best ways to store & cook chicken liver
FAQ
How to store cooked chicken livers?
TO STORE: The liver will last 3-4 days in the fridge storage in an airtight container. TO FREEZE: Freeze the fully cooked liver in an airtight container. In the container, the liver will last about 1-3 months. TO REHEAT: The oven is the best way to reheat the chicken livers.
Can cooked liver be stored in the fridge?
Liver can be stored in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 days. In the freezer, it will last for 12 months.
Can you eat cooked chicken liver the next day?
After cooking, store liver in the fridge at 40°F (4°C). This stops harmful bacteria from growing. This way, liver stays safe to eat for 1 to 2 days.Nov 12, 2024
How to know if cooked chicken liver is spoiled?
A slimy or sticky surface is a sure sign of spoilage.