BLW Foods
Heart chicken

babyledweaningfoods.com

Heart chicken — prep card

Category: proteinChoking risk: lowIron-richProtein-rich

6–8 months

Cook chicken hearts until completely tender by simmering in liquid for 15 to 20 minutes, then allow to cool. Shred the cooked hearts into fine pieces or cut lengthwise into finger-length strips about the width of two adult fingers that baby can grasp and gnaw on. Serve the pieces moist, perhaps mixed with a little of the cooking liquid or mashed vegetables to prevent them drying out.

9–11 months

Continue cooking chicken hearts until tender, then cut into smaller, bite-sized pieces roughly the size of a chickpea that your baby can pick up with their developing pincer grasp. You can also continue offering shredded pieces or slightly larger chunks for babies who prefer to bite pieces off themselves. Keep the texture soft and moist to support self-feeding.

12–24 months

Cook chicken hearts thoroughly and cut into small, manageable bites appropriate for your toddler's chewing ability. Serve as part of mixed dishes like stews, pasta, or rice bowls to keep the pieces moist and interesting. Avoid overcooking, which can make the hearts rubbery and more difficult to chew.

Nutrition highlights

Chicken heart is exceptionally rich in iron, which supports healthy brain development and helps prevent iron deficiency anaemia in babies. It also provides high-quality protein, B vitamins including B12, and essential minerals like zinc and selenium. Organ meats like chicken heart are among the most nutrient-dense foods you can offer your baby.

Allergen information

Chicken heart is not a common allergen and poultry is generally well-tolerated by most babies. As with introducing any new food, offer chicken heart on its own initially and watch for signs of an allergic reaction, though these are rare with poultry.

Always supervise meals. Adjust textures to your baby's stage. Medical questions belong with your health professional. Source: babyledweaningfoods.com/foods/heart-chicken