Pate

Quick Creamy Chicken Liver Pâté with Butter and Thyme (Video)

Discover how to make creamy chicken liver pâté with butter and thyme. This easy homemade spread combines sautéed onions, garlic, and tender chicken livers blended with cream and butter for a smooth, rich flavor. Perfect for serving with toasted bruschetta and cherry tomatoes.

Quick Creamy Chicken Liver Pâté with Butter and Thyme (Video)

Recipe by PolyaCourse: Appetizers, RecipesCuisine: EuropeanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

5

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

210

kcal
Total time

35

minutes

Chicken liver pâté is a timeless spread that brings elegance to any table. Its rich, velvety texture is achieved by carefully cooking fresh chicken livers with onions, garlic, and herbs, then blending them with cream and butter until smooth. This recipe gives you a balanced pâté that is neither too heavy nor too bitter, with thyme adding a subtle herbal note. Served with crispy bruschetta and cherry tomatoes, it makes an ideal appetizer for gatherings or a gourmet treat at home.

Kitchen Tools Used

Medium skillet or pan
Blender or food processor
Wooden spoon
Fine strainer
Small bowl for draining excess liquid

Ingredients

  • 250 g chicken livers, cleaned and trimmed

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 1 garlic clove, pressed

  • 50 g + 25 g + 25 g unsalted butter (soft)

  • 50 ml heavy cream (added in two stages of 25 ml)

  • ½ tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped

  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • ½ cup warm water (about 120 ml)

  • Bruschetta bread and cherry tomatoes, for serving

Directions

  • Preparation

    Begin by cleaning the chicken livers thoroughly, removing any membranes and rinsing away excess blood. Pat them dry with kitchen paper to prevent excess moisture during cooking. Chop the onion finely, and press the garlic clove. Prepare your butter by keeping it at room temperature so it blends smoothly later.Pate
  • Cooking

    Melt 50 g of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, then add the garlic. Continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring until the onion softens and turns translucent. Add the chicken livers and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly until they begin to change color. Season with thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the warm water, stir well, then reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, until the livers are fully cooked but still tender.Pate
  • Finishing the Pâté

    Remove the skillet from the heat. Using a strainer, separate the livers and onions from the excess cooking liquid. Transfer the solids into a blender. Pulse a few times until slightly chopped, then add 25 g of butter and 25 ml of cream. Blend until smoother. Add the remaining 25 g of butter and 25 ml of cream, then blend again for 1–2 minutes, until the pâté is silky and homogeneous. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.Pate
  • Serving

    Spoon the pâté into small bowls or ramekins. Let it cool slightly before serving, allowing the flavors to settle. Pair it with freshly toasted bruschetta and halved cherry tomatoes for a refreshing contrast. For storage, cover and refrigerate—it will keep well for up to 3 days.Pate

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Do:
    Use fresh chicken livers for the best flavor and texture.
    Chill the pâté before serving if you want a firmer consistency.
    Serve with crusty bread, bruschetta, or crackers for variety.
    Don’t:
    ❌ Don’t skip cleaning the livers thoroughly—residual blood will affect the taste.
    ❌ Don’t blend too little; pâté should be silky, not chunky.
    ❌ Don’t add too much salt initially—adjust only at the end.
  • FAQ
    Q: Can I freeze chicken liver pâté?
    A: Yes, you can freeze it, but it may slightly lose its silky texture once thawed. If freezing, store in an airtight container and consume within one month.
    Q: How long does homemade pâté last in the fridge?
    A: It usually lasts 3–4 days when kept covered in the refrigerator. For longer storage, seal with a layer of melted butter on top.
    Q: Can I use duck or pork liver instead of chicken liver?
    A: Absolutely. Duck liver will give a richer taste, while pork liver is stronger and more rustic. Cooking time may vary depending on the liver type.
    Q: What can I serve with chicken liver pâté?
    A: Classic pairings include toasted bread, pickles, caramelized onions, or fresh fruit like grapes and figs for a sweet contrast.
    Q: Is this recipe suitable for children?
    A: Yes, since this recipe does not include alcohol, it is family-friendly. Just make sure the livers are thoroughly cooked.