Many people want to share the joy of delicious food with their canine companions. But unless certain health needs are present, not all human foods are suitable for every dog to consume. Chicken hearts are a great way to give your dog a tasty treat that’s also packed with healthy vitamins and minerals. Cooking chicken hearts for dogs can be simple and straightforward when you follow these steps.
What Are the Benefits of Feeding Dogs Chicken Hearts?
Not only are chicken hearts delicious treats for your pup, but they’re also packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that your pup needs in their diet. Chicken hearts are an excellent source of protein, vitamin B6 and B12, phosphorus, iron, selenium, and zinc. Even better, they’re much more affordable than regular cuts of chicken and they’re high in healthy fats, specifically omega-3s. This makes chicken hearts an excellent choice if you’re looking for a healthy and affordable snack for your pup.
In addition to the nutritional benefits, chicken hearts are also a great way to keep your pup entertained. They’re small enough to be used as a training treat, and they’re a great way to keep your pup occupied while you’re away. Plus, they’re a great way to show your pup some extra love and affection. So, if you’re looking for a healthy and affordable snack for your pup, chicken hearts are a great option.
What You’ll Need for Cooking Chicken Hearts for Dogs
Before you start cooking for your pup it’s helpful to make sure you have everything ready beforehand. For cooking chicken hearts you won’t need many items, usually just a few tools from your kitchen. You’ll need a cutting board, knife, baking pan, foil or parchment paper, and obviously the raw chicken heart.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Hearts
If you bought raw chicken hearts still in their package then the first step is prep work. Take the cut of the chicken hearts out of the package and place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to remove any veins or connective tissue still attached to the hearts. If there is any gristle or fat visible on the chicken heart then remove it as well. Once all the preparation is finished rinse the chicken hearts off with cold water.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken Hearts
Now that your chicken hearts are prepped and ready to go, it’s time to start cooking. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking pan with foil or parchment paper and spread the chicken hearts out in a single layer on top. Put the baking pan on a middle rack in the preheated oven and set a timer for 25 minutes. When the timer goes off check the hearts to make sure they are completely cooked through. The chicken hearts may need a few more minutes if they are larger but they should not be left in the oven too long or they will become tough and dry.
Step 3: Storing the Cooked Chicken Hearts
When the chicken hearts are finished cooking you can take them out of the oven. Cool them for about 5 minutes before transferring them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. The cooked chicken hearts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or in the freezer for up to six months.
Variations on Cooking Chicken Hearts for Dogs
If you’re looking for ways to mix up your pup’s diet then try out some of these variations on cooking chicken hearts. You can sauté them in some olive oil until they’re crispy on the outside or boil them in some broth for a softer texture. If you want to add a bit of sweetness then mix in some diced apples or other fruit. Even something as simple as coating them with melted butter can be enough to make them a favorite snack for your pup.
Tips for Feeding Dogs Chicken Hearts
If you’re planning on feeding cooked chicken hearts to your pup there are a few things you should keep in mind. Dogs should not eat too much fat in their diet so try not to give your pup more than 10% of their dietary calories from fat. Also make sure to take into account any other treats or snacks your pup has already had that day and adjust the portion size accordingly. Ideally dogs should have 2% of their body weight in grams of protein from meat sources per day.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken hearts for dogs is an easy and enjoyable way to provide your pup with a nutritious snack. From start to finish this process should take about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days. As long as you remember to keep portions controlled and to watch out for other sources of fat in their diet then you can safely treat your pup with healthy and delicious chicken hearts.
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