Foies de Poulet sautéed with balsamic glaze and herbs
Easy

Foies de Poulet Sautés

(234)
15 min4210 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|May 12, 2024

Foies de Poulet Sautés transforms humble chicken livers into a rich, deeply flavourful dish in under 15 minutes. The livers are seared until caramelized on the outside but still pink and creamy inside, then finished with shallots, balsamic vinegar, and fresh herbs. Served on toast or with a green salad, this is an affordable French bistro classic.

chicken-liverfrenchbistroquick

Ingredients

Servings:
4

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Mise en Place Saves Time

Even for quick recipes, spend 3 minutes measuring and prepping everything before you turn on the heat. It sounds counterintuitive, but it actually speeds up cooking because you're never scrambling mid-recipe.

Season Generously

Most home cooks under-season their chicken. I use about 1 teaspoon of kosher salt per pound of chicken, applied at least 30 minutes before cooking for the deepest flavour penetration.

About This Recipe

Foies de Poulet Sautés is a delightful French appetizer that transforms chicken livers into a rich and indulgent dish, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a late-night craving. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; with just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels both rustic and elegant. The searing process caramelizes the outside, while keeping the inside creamy and tender, making each bite a blend of textures that are utterly irresistible. Canadian home cooks love this dish not only for its exquisite flavour but also for its affordability, showcasing how humble ingredients can shine when treated with care and respect.

This dish is a celebration of quick cooking, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Imagine the aroma of shallots sautéing in butter, mingling with balsamic vinegar and fresh herbs, filling your kitchen with warmth. Foies de Poulet Sautés is a reminder that French cuisine doesn’t always have to be complex; sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most memorable and satisfying, especially when paired with a good glass of wine or a refreshing salad.

Tips for the Best Foies de Poulet Sautés

To achieve the perfect doneness for your chicken livers, aim for an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F). Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to a dry texture. Searing the livers for just a few minutes on each side until they are caramelized and still pink in the center is key. Remember to let the livers rest briefly after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, enhancing their rich, creamy texture.

What to Serve With It

Serve Foies de Poulet Sautés on toasted crusty bread, allowing the rich, buttery livers to soak into the bread while providing a satisfying crunch. For a Canadian twist, consider pairing it with a light arugula salad dressed in a simple lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens will contrast beautifully with the richness of the livers, creating a balanced plate that is sure to impress.

Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the livers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of butter to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. While freezing is not recommended for the best texture, if you must, you can freeze the cooked livers for up to 3 months; however, they may lose some of their creamy quality upon thawing.

Nutrition Per Serving

210
Calories
22g
Protein
10g
Fat
6g
Carbs
Fiber0g
Sugar4g
Sodium420mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken livers for this recipe?+

Yes, you can use frozen chicken livers. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat them dry to ensure a good sear.

What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?+

If you don't have balsamic vinegar, a good substitute would be red wine vinegar mixed with a touch of honey to mimic the sweetness. This will still provide a nice depth of flavor.

How can I tell if the chicken livers are cooked properly?+

Chicken livers should be browned on the outside but still slightly pink on the inside. This ensures they remain tender and creamy. Aim for an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F).

What herbs can I use besides thyme and parsley?+

You can experiment with other herbs like tarragon or chives, which can add a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs are key to brightening the dish!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?+

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauté and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving to retain the livers' texture.

Reviews

4.7 / 5 (234 reviews)
Rachel T.
May 27, 2025

Made this for a dinner party and everyone asked for the recipe.

Ryan B.
Dec 25, 2025

Easy to follow and turned out amazing. A new favourite.

Michael I.
Nov 13, 2025

Absolutely delicious! The whole family devoured it.

Rachel Y.
Jun 12, 2025

Best chicken recipe I have tried in a long time.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
5 min
Cook:
10 min
Total:
15 min
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Easy

Pro Tips

  • 1Don't overcook — livers should be slightly pink inside for the best texture.
  • 2Dry livers thoroughly to achieve a proper sear.
  • 3Soak livers in milk for 30 minutes before cooking to mellow the flavour.

Variations

  • Add a splash of port wine instead of balsamic.
  • Blend into a smooth chicken liver pâté.
  • Add caramelized onions for extra sweetness.

Chicken Appetizers & Party Food

Foies de Poulet Sautés

The Foies de Poulet Sautés recipe everyone keeps asking for. Here it is!

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Foies de Poulet sautéed with balsamic glaze and herbs
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

You Might Also Like

Popular Recipes

More Chicken Appetizers & Party Food

Learn More

Explore More