Why Chicken Liver?
Organ meats, especially liver, are a cornerstone of the AIP diet. Chicken liver is rich in vital nutrients like iron, folate, vitamin A, and B12, which are all essential for immune support, energy production, and overall wellness. Many people with autoimmune conditions can greatly benefit from incorporating liver into their diet regularly. However, if you’re someone who’s not a fan of liver’s stronger flavor, wrapping it in bacon is a fantastic way to mellow it out!
AIP Chicken Liver Wrapped in Bacon
Rich, Savory, and Nutrient-Packed
When it comes to AIP recipes, one of my favorite ways to enjoy nutrient-dense foods is through this incredibly delicious and simple dish: Chicken Liver Wrapped in Bacon. Chicken liver is often overlooked, but it’s a powerhouse of nutrients, especially for those of us following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP). Packed with iron, vitamins A and B12, and protein, this recipe not only tastes amazing but also nourishes your body. And when you pair liver with the salty, savory goodness of bacon—well, it’s a match made in heaven!
Whether you’re new to eating organ meats or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a great way to introduce or enjoy liver in a way that’s flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, with just a few ingredients that come together beautifully:
- 1 pound of chicken liver, cleaned and trimmed
- 10 to 12 strips of nitrate and nitrite-free bacon, no antibiotics ever
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10 to 20 toothpicks
That’s it! With just three ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful, nutrient-rich dish ready in no time.
How to Make Chicken Liver Wrapped in Bacon
- Prep the Livers – Start by cleaning and trimming your chicken livers. If you’ve never worked with liver before, don’t worry! It’s easy to handle, and trimming off any tough spots will make a big difference in the texture.
- Wrap with Bacon – Cut your bacon strips in half if needed, then wrap each chicken liver tightly with bacon, making sure it overlaps slightly to keep everything secure.
- Season & Bake – Place the bacon-wrapped livers seam-side down on a baking sheet or even better on a glass baking dish greased with oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve & Enjoy – Once the livers are done, you can garnish them with fresh thyme if you like. It adds a nice pop of freshness to the dish. Enjoy these little flavor-packed bites on their own or pair them with a simple side dish for a complete meal!
What to Pair with Chicken Liver Wrapped in Bacon?
For a well-rounded meal, try pairing this dish with:
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes for a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower for a creamy, low-carb option.
- Sautéed Spinach with Lemon for a light, citrusy balance.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts to complement the bacon’s savory flavor.
These sides are all AIP-friendly, nutritious, and will complement the richness of the chicken liver perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Eating on the AIP diet doesn’t have to be bland or restrictive, and this Chicken Liver Wrapped in Bacon proves just that! It’s rich in flavor and packed with vital nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking to boost your nutrient intake or just want to enjoy a tasty dish, give this recipe a try.
Let me know in the comments if you’ve made this recipe, and how you liked it! If you’re looking for more AIP-friendly recipes, be sure to explore the rest of the blog and subscribe for regular updates.
And remember, managing autoimmune diseases is a journey, not a sprint. Keep nourishing yourself one delicious bite at a time!
BACON WRAPPED CHICKEN LIVER
Course: Appetizers, DinnerCuisine: European, French, MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes25
minutes210
kcalThis AIP-friendly Bacon Wrapped Chicken Liver recipe is both delicious and nutrient-dense, perfect for anyone following the Autoimmune Protocol. Packed with vitamins A, B12, and iron, chicken liver becomes a flavorful, easy-to-make dish when paired with savory bacon. This recipe requires just three ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a convenient option for a healthy, satisfying meal. Pair it with sides like roasted sweet potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower for a balanced meal or serve it as is as an Appetizer.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) chicken liver cleaned and trimmed (see here how to clean chicken liver)
10 – 12 strips of nitrate-free bacon
1 tablespoon avocado oil
Directions
- Preheat the ove to 400F (200C).
- Cut the bacon strips in half if needed and wrap each chicken liver tightly with bacon, making sure it overlaps. Keep the bacon secure by using toothpicks.
- Place the bacon-wrapped livers seam-side down on a baking sheet or a oven-resistant glass dish. Drizzle with avocado oil.
- Bake the chicken livers for 25-30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
Notes
- If you prefer, soak the chicken livers in milk or water for about 30 minutes before cooking. This can help reduce the strong flavor and make them more tender.
- Choose thick-cut bacon for better wrapping and flavor. You can also opt for turkey bacon for a leaner alternative, though it may not crisp up as nicely.
- Store any leftover bacon-wrapped livers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- You can freeze uncooked, wrapped livers. Lay them out on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
