Introduction to Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl
If you’re looking to impress your guests with a dish that blends sophistication with comfort, the Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl is your answer. This rich and creamy mousse, topped with crispy bacon and toasted hazelnuts, offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for young professionals and homemade-food lovers, this recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for those with busy lifestyles.
The process of creating this delightful appetizer is straightforward, requiring just a few ingredients and about 35 minutes of your time. The combination of chicken livers, aromatic garlic, and fresh thyme creates a savory base that is elevated by the crunch of hazelnuts and the salty bite of bacon. A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a sweet and tangy finish, making every bite a culinary delight.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a special treat to enjoy at home, this Chicken Liver Mousse is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also brings a touch of French elegance to your table.
Key Ingredients
Chicken Livers (1 pound)
Chicken livers are the heart of this dish, providing a rich and creamy texture that forms the base of the mousse. They are not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients, making them a healthy choice for a gourmet appetizer.
Unsalted Butter (4 ounces)
Unsalted butter adds a luxurious creaminess to the mousse and helps to enhance the overall flavor. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish, ensuring a perfectly balanced taste.
Onion (1 small, chopped)
Chopped onion contributes a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the richness of the chicken livers. When sautéed, the onion becomes tender and caramelized, providing a delightful foundation for the mousse.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Garlic adds a fragrant and savory note to the mousse, enhancing its overall flavor profile. Its robust taste pairs beautifully with the chicken livers, making each bite more aromatic and delicious.
Fresh Thyme (1 teaspoon)
Fresh thyme brings a hint of earthiness and herbal complexity to the mousse. This herb elevates the dish, adding a layer of freshness that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Heavy Cream (1/4 cup)
Heavy cream contributes to the mousse’s smooth and silky texture, making it delectably rich. It also helps to mellow out the flavors, creating a harmonious blend of ingredients that is irresistible.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors of the mousse. It brings out the natural sweetness of the chicken livers and balances the richness of the cream and butter.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick and depth to the mousse. It complements the other flavors and adds a touch of warmth without overpowering the dish.
Bacon (4 slices, cooked and crumbled)
Crispy bacon introduces a delightful crunch and savory flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smooth mousse. Its smoky taste enhances the overall dish, making it even more indulgent.
Toasted Hazelnuts (1/4 cup, chopped)
Toasted hazelnuts provide a nutty flavor and crunchy texture that adds interest to the dish. They not only enhance the visual appeal but also complement the richness of the mousse.
Balsamic Reduction (2 tablespoons)
A drizzle of balsamic reduction adds a sweet and tangy element that brightens the dish. This finishing touch brings all the flavors together, making each bite a delicious experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl is not just a dish; it is an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and impresses your guests. This rich and creamy mousse is elevated by the crunch of crispy bacon and the nutty flavor of toasted hazelnuts, creating a perfect harmony of textures. Drizzled with balsamic reduction, it brings a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Easy to Prepare
For young professionals and homemade-food lovers, the ease of preparation is a major selling point. This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick yet sophisticated appetizer. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can wow your friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Make Ahead Convenience
Another reason to love this recipe is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the mousse a day in advance and let the flavors develop overnight, ensuring a richer taste when served. This means you can spend more time with your guests and less time cooking when it’s time to entertain.
Overall, this Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl is a dish that combines elegance with comfort, making it a must-try for any food lover.
Variations
Herb-Infused Mousse
To add a fresh twist to your Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl, consider incorporating herbs like rosemary or chives. Simply fold in a tablespoon of finely chopped herbs during the blending process for an aromatic enhancement that brightens the dish.
Nut Alternatives
If hazelnuts aren’t available or to your taste, feel free to substitute with other nuts such as walnuts or pecans. Both options provide a delightful crunch and a unique flavor profile that will still complement the richness of the mousse beautifully.
Spicy Kick
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor. This variation is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice things up and add an exciting kick to the classic recipe.
These variations not only allow you to customize your Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl but also invite creativity into your cooking. Why settle for the original when you can explore new flavor profiles that suit your palate?

Cooking Tips and Notes
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To ensure your Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl is irresistibly smooth, blend the chicken liver mixture until it reaches a creamy consistency. If you prefer an even silkier texture, consider blending for a longer duration. This extra step can make a noticeable difference in your final dish.
Flavor Depth
Making the mousse a day in advance is highly recommended, as this allows the flavors to meld and deepen overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply top the mousse with crumbled bacon and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a fresh burst of flavor. This strategy not only enhances the taste but also makes entertaining a breeze, freeing up your time on the day of your gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your mousse with crusty bread or an assortment of crackers to provide a delightful contrast in texture. Not only does this make for a beautiful presentation, but it also allows your guests to customize each bite. The combination of creamy mousse and crunchy dippers will surely impress everyone at your table.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl:\n- Serve mousse in elegant ramekins, garnished with extra hazelnuts and crispy bacon bits.\n- Pair with crusty baguette or artisanal crackers for textural contrast.\n- Include lightly dressed greens for a fresh element.\n- For a rustic presentation, use a wooden charcuterie board with pickles, olives, and cheeses for a communal dining experience.
Time Breakdown
When preparing the Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl, it’s helpful to understand the time involved in each step. This dish is not only delicious but also efficient to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy individuals.
Preparation
The preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes. This includes rinsing the chicken livers, chopping the onion, and measuring out all other ingredients. Having everything prepped in advance will streamline the cooking process.
Cooking
The cooking time is about 20 minutes. During this time, you’ll sauté the onions and garlic, then cook the chicken livers until they are browned and cooked through, which is crucial for the perfect mousse texture.
Total
In total, you’ll need about 2 hours and 40 minutes from start to finish for this dish, mainly due to the chilling time. This quick turnaround means you can enjoy a gourmet appetizer without spending all day in the kitchen. For an efficient cooking experience, gather all your ingredients and tools beforehand!

Nutritional Facts
Understanding the nutritional content of the Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl can help you appreciate its rich flavors while keeping health in mind. Each serving, which is about 1/2 cup, contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying yet indulgent appetizer.
Key Nutritional Information
- Total Fat: 28g, which includes 10g of saturated fat and 16g of unsaturated fat. This fat content contributes to the creamy texture of the mousse.
- Sodium: With 700mg of sodium, it’s important to consider this if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Total Carbohydrates: Each serving contains 4g of carbohydrates, including 1g of dietary fiber and 1g of sugars, which provides a balanced nutritional profile.
- Protein: With 15g of protein per serving, this dish is a good source of protein, making it a hearty option for any meal.
This mousse is not only delicious but also packs a nutritional punch with a good balance of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
FAQ Based on ‘People Also Ask’
When it comes to the Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl, many questions arise regarding its preparation and serving. Here are some common queries answered.
Can I make chicken liver mousse ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the mousse a day in advance is recommended. This allows the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a more delicious dish when served.
What can I serve with chicken liver mousse?
This mousse pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, crackers, or even fresh vegetables for dipping. Adding a side of pickles or olives can enhance the overall tasting experience, creating a delightful appetizer spread.
How do I store leftover mousse?
Leftover chicken liver mousse should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick snacks.
Is chicken liver mousse gluten-free?
Yes! The Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure to serve it with gluten-free accompaniments.
Conclusion
The Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl is not just a dish; it’s a culinary adventure that brings rich flavors and textures together for an unforgettable experience. Perfect for gatherings or as a sophisticated appetizer, this mousse is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen.
With its creamy texture, crispy bacon, and nutty hazelnuts, this dish is sure to impress your guests and elevate your dining experience. So, gather your ingredients, prepare this delightful mousse, and enjoy the compliments that come your way. Don’t forget to save or share this recipe for future gatherings!
Print
Chicken Liver Mousse Bacon Hazelnut Balsamic Bowl
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A rich and creamy chicken liver mousse topped with crispy bacon and toasted hazelnuts, drizzled with balsamic reduction.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken livers
- 4 ounces unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction
Instructions
- Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add chicken livers and thyme, cook until livers are browned and cooked through.
- Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then blend with heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Transfer the mousse to a serving bowl and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Before serving, top with crumbled bacon, chopped hazelnuts, and drizzle with balsamic reduction.
Notes
- Serve with toasted bread or crackers for spreading.
- Make ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
