A 1 oz serving of chicken giblets and neck meat and skin (capons) contains about 66 calories.

Chicken giblets are the edible organs of chickens, including the heart, liver, gizzard, and neck. Capons are castrated male chickens that are prized for their tender and flavorful meat, particularly the breast meat.

In this article, we'll discuss the nutritional benefits and cooking methods for chicken giblets and neck meat, as well as answer common questions about their safety and storage.

What are Chicken Giblets?

Chicken giblets are a nutrient-dense and flavorful part of the chicken that many people overlook. They consist of the heart, liver, gizzard, and neck, and are often sold together in a small package. The liver is a rich source of vitamins A, B12, and folate, as well as iron and copper. The heart is high in protein and minerals like magnesium, selenium, and zinc. The gizzard is a muscular organ that grinds food in the bird's stomach, and is also a good source of protein and vitamin B12. Finally, the neck is a bony and cartilaginous part of the bird that can be simmered to make a flavorful broth. Overall, chicken giblets are a budget-friendly and nutritious addition to many dishes, and can be used in soups, stews, gravies, and more.

What are Capons?

Capons are male chickens that are surgically castrated at a young age to improve the texture and flavor of their meat. Because capons lack the hormones responsible for muscle development, their meat is more tender and has a milder taste than that of mature roosters. Capons are often raised for meat and can weigh up to 10 pounds. Capons are available fresh or frozen, and can be roasted, braised, or grilled for a delicious and festive meal.

Calories in Chicken Giblets

A 1 oz serving of chicken giblets contains about 44 calories. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the specific organ and whether it's cooked with or without the skin. For example, a cooked chicken liver with skin contains about 94 calories per 1 oz serving, while a cooked chicken gizzard with skin contains about 80 calories per 1 oz serving. It's important to note that chicken giblets are also high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.

Protein Content in Chicken Giblets and Neck Meat

Chicken giblets and neck meat are rich in protein, with a 1 oz serving of cooked chicken liver containing about 5 grams of protein, and a cooked chicken gizzard containing about 6 grams of protein. The neck meat is also high in protein, with about 7 grams of protein per 1 oz serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and also plays a role in many metabolic processes in the body. Including chicken giblets and neck meat in your diet can help you meet your daily protein needs and promote overall health.

How to Cook Chicken Giblets

Chicken giblets and neck meat can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on your taste preferences and the dish you're making. Here are some popular cooking methods for chicken giblets: - Simmering: Place the chicken giblets in a pot with enough water to cover, along with aromatics like onion, garlic, and herbs. Simmer until the giblets are cooked through and tender, about 20-30 minutes. The resulting broth can be used as a base for soups and stews. - Frying: Coat the chicken giblets in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs, and fry in a pan with oil or butter until golden brown and crispy. Serve as a snack or appetizer.

Benefits of Eating Chicken Giblets and Neck Meat

Chicken giblets and neck meat are packed with nutrients that can benefit your overall health. Here are some of the top benefits of including them in your diet: - Rich in protein: As mentioned earlier, chicken giblets and neck meat are high in protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues and maintaining a healthy immune system. - Good source of vitamins and minerals: Chicken giblets, especially the liver, are high in vitamins A, B12, and folate, as well as minerals like iron and copper. The gizzard and neck meat are also good sources of nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and selenium.

Is it Safe to Eat Chicken Giblets?

When handled and cooked properly, chicken giblets are safe to eat. However, it's important to follow these guidelines to minimize the risk of foodborne illness: - Wash hands and surfaces: Always wash your hands and any utensils, cutting boards, or surfaces that come into contact with raw chicken giblets or neck meat. - Cook thoroughly: Cook chicken giblets and neck meat to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria.

How to Store Chicken Giblets and Neck Meat

Chicken giblets and neck meat should be stored properly to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness. Here are some tips for storing chicken giblets and neck meat: - Refrigerate promptly: After purchasing or cooking chicken giblets, store them in the refrigerator at 40°F or below. They should be used within 1-2 days of purchase or cooking. - Freeze for longer storage: Chicken giblets can be frozen for up to 6 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and label with the date so you know when they were frozen.

Chicken Giblets Recipes

Here are some tasty and simple recipes that use chicken giblets and neck meat: - Chicken Giblet Gravy: Simmer chopped chicken giblets, onions, garlic, and chicken broth until the giblets are cooked through. Blend the mixture until smooth, then add flour and butter to thicken the gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Chicken Giblet Soup: Simmer chicken giblets, chopped carrots, celery, and onions in chicken broth until the giblets are cooked through. Add cooked rice or noodles and serve hot.

Alternative Sources of Protein

If you're not a fan of chicken giblets, or if you're looking for other sources of protein to add to your diet, here are some options to consider: - Lean meats: Choose lean cuts of beef, pork, or lamb for a high-protein, low-fat option. - Seafood: Fish and shellfish are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.