Trying to find healthy, simple dog treats that don’t come with a side of preservatives or mystery ingredients? These air-fried chicken hearts might just be the answer. This is one of those easy snack recipes that checks all the boxes: high in nutrients, budget-friendly, fast to make, and most importantly—dogs go crazy for them.
And for anyone who’s ever stood in the pet treat aisle wondering what’s actually in those store-bought snacks… this recipe offers a refreshing alternative. Made with just a handful of ingredients and cooked up in an air fryer, it’s perfect for those looking to offer their furry companion something a little more wholesome.
Whether it’s a training reward, an afternoon snack, or just a way to show a little extra love, this dog treat recipe is worth adding to the rotation.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound of raw chicken hearts (fresh or fully thawed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil (for a slight crisp and healthy fat boost)
- Optional add-ins for garnish:
- Finely chopped kale or parsley (for extra nutrients)
- A sprinkle of ground pumpkin seeds (great for digestion)
Pro Tips
- Start with a small batch if it’s their first time Chicken hearts are nutrient-dense, so starting slow can help avoid tummy troubles. A little goes a long way, especially with smaller breeds.
- Make it fun for kids too Letting kids help with the safe parts of the process—like rinsing the chicken hearts or placing them in the air fryer basket—can be a great way to get the whole family involved. Just make sure hands are washed well after.
- Use treats for training Since these treats are high-value to dogs (read: they’ll do almost anything for them), they make an excellent motivator during training or to reinforce good behavior.
- Stick to single layers Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking. If doubling the recipe, cook in batches so each piece gets evenly crisped.
- Let them cool completely Hot treats might smell amazing to your dog, but always make sure they’ve cooled down to room temperature before serving to avoid burns.
Tools Needed
- Air fryer (basket style works best for even air circulation)
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoon
- Tongs or spatula
- Paper towels or clean kitchen cloth
- Airtight container for storage
Substitutions & Variations
- Different oils: While olive oil is a great choice, coconut oil can also be used. It adds a touch of natural sweetness and has antibacterial properties.
- Add some greens: Mix in finely chopped kale, spinach, or parsley—just make sure they’re dog-safe and finely chopped to avoid large fibrous chunks.
- Make them chewy: Air fry for a shorter time (about 12–14 minutes) for a chewier texture, or for longer if a crispy crunch is preferred.
- Try turkey or beef hearts: If chicken isn’t available, turkey or beef hearts work just as well. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on size.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep and freeze: Clean and pat dry the chicken hearts, then portion into bags and freeze. When ready to make a batch, thaw overnight in the fridge and toss straight into the air fryer.
- Cook in bulk: Make a double batch and freeze half for future use. The treats store well and reheat easily, saving time in the long run.
- Use an ice cube tray: For perfect portioning, freeze heart pieces in an ice tray with a tiny bit of broth or water. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for quick grab-and-go servings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer Set the air fryer to 400°F and let it run for about 3–4 minutes. This helps the cooking start instantly and gives a better crisp.
- Clean and dry the chicken hearts Rinse the hearts under cool water to remove any blood or residue, then pat completely dry with paper towels. This helps reduce excess moisture and makes for a better sear.
- Toss with oil In a bowl, toss the hearts with olive or coconut oil until evenly coated. This helps with browning and adds healthy fats to the treat.
- Arrange in a single layer Place the chicken hearts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Avoid stacking or crowding.
- Cook for 18–22 minutes Air fry for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For chewier treats, reduce cook time to 14–16 minutes. For a crisper texture, go closer to 22 minutes.
- Cool completely Remove the hearts from the air fryer and let them cool fully before serving. Store extras in the fridge or freezer as needed.
- Optional Garnish Once cooled, top with a pinch of finely chopped greens or a light sprinkle of ground pumpkin seeds for added nutritional value (and a touch of color).
Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per 1 oz serving)
- Calories: ~50
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Iron: ~1.5mg
- Taurine: High — supports heart and vision health in dogs
Note: Always adjust based on your dog’s weight, breed, and dietary needs. Consult a vet for personalized feeding advice.
Tips for Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze cooled treats in a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Perfect for prepping large batches.
- Thawing: Let thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. They can also be served cold, straight from the fridge, especially on warm days.
- Reheat with care: Warm slightly in the air fryer or microwave for just a few seconds. Avoid serving piping hot.
FAQs
Can frozen chicken hearts be used? Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before air frying. This ensures even cooking and a better final texture.
How often should these treats be given? These treats are best served in moderation. Depending on your dog’s size, 1–3 pieces a day is usually plenty. As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories.
Are chicken hearts safe for dogs with food sensitivities? Chicken hearts are generally well-tolerated by most dogs, but it’s always a good idea to introduce any new food slowly. For dogs with specific dietary issues, checking with a vet first is recommended.
Can this recipe be used for cats too? Yes! Cats also love chicken hearts and benefit from their high taurine content. Just cut them into smaller pieces for easier chewing.
Why choose chicken hearts over other treats? Chicken hearts are packed with protein, iron, taurine, and B vitamins. They’re also naturally flavorful, making them a hit even with picky dogs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something really satisfying about making simple, wholesome treats that dogs genuinely love. These air-fried chicken hearts are nutritious, fast to prepare, and perfect for everything from training sessions to midday snacks. No mystery fillers, no preservatives—just real, honest food.
For anyone who’s ever wondered what’s in their dog’s treat bag, this recipe is an easy way to take control over what’s going into their bowl. Once they get a taste of these, there’s a good chance store-bought snacks might just take a back seat.
So give this recipe a try and see how it goes! And if any questions come up, or if there’s a favorite variation to share, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below. Tail wags guaranteed.
