Introduction to Chicken Fried Steak
Ah, Chicken Fried Steak! Just the name brings back memories of cozy family dinners and the comforting aroma wafting through the kitchen. This classic Southern dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate. Perfect for busy days, it’s quick to whip up and sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re looking to satisfy picky eaters or treat yourself after a long day, this recipe is your go-to. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular on your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Steak
This Chicken Fried Steak is a delightful blend of ease and flavor. It comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution. The crispy, golden crust paired with creamy gravy is pure comfort food bliss. Plus, it’s a dish that brings smiles to the table, satisfying even the pickiest of eaters. You’ll love how it transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary!
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a mouthwatering Chicken Fried Steak. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cube Steaks: These tender cuts of beef are the star of the dish. They’re usually pre-tenderized, making them perfect for frying.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for creating that crispy coating. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth to the flavor. Fresh garlic can be used, but the powder is more convenient.
- Onion Powder: This enhances the overall taste, giving it that classic comfort food flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: A touch of smokiness elevates the dish. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These are your basic seasonings, crucial for bringing out the flavors.
- Cayenne Pepper: Optional, but it adds a nice kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.
- Eggs: They help the flour adhere to the steaks, creating that irresistible crust.
- Buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tang. If you don’t have it, regular milk works just fine.
- Hot Sauce: Optional, but it gives an extra layer of flavor. Choose your favorite brand!
- Vegetable Oil: For frying, you’ll need enough to cover the bottom of your skillet. Canola or peanut oil are great alternatives.
- Butter: Used in the gravy, it adds richness and flavor.
- Whole Milk: This is the base for your creamy gravy. You can use low-fat milk if you prefer.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delicious process of making Chicken Fried Steak. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a plateful of comfort food in no time!
Prepare the Coating
Start by grabbing a shallow dish. In it, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous. Mix it well until all the spices are evenly distributed. This seasoned flour is what gives your Chicken Fried Steak that irresistible flavor and crunch!
Dredge the Steaks
Next, take your cube steaks and dip each one into the seasoned flour. Make sure to coat them thoroughly. Then, move on to the egg wash. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce. Dip the floured steak into this mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, return the steak to the flour for a second coating. Press the flour firmly onto the steak to ensure a crispy crust. Trust me, this extra step is worth it!
Fry the Steaks
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. You want it hot, around 350°F. Carefully place the breaded steaks into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer them to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. The sizzling sound is music to my ears!
Make the Gravy
In the same skillet, reduce the oil to about 2 tablespoons. If you prefer, you can add a tablespoon of butter for extra flavor. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden brown. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring no lumps form. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. This creamy gravy is the perfect partner for your Chicken Fried Steak!
Serve and Enjoy
Now comes the best part! Serve your Chicken Fried Steak hot, generously topped with that luscious gravy. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttered corn. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your culinary triumph with your loved ones!
Tips for Success
- Let the coated steaks rest for 10-15 minutes before frying for extra crunch.
- Use a thermometer to check oil temperature; it should be around 350°F for perfect frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
- For a lighter version, bake the steaks instead of frying.
- Adjust seasoning in the gravy to suit your taste; a pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick!
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is ideal for frying, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do.
- Shallow Dish: Use for coating the steaks; a pie plate works perfectly.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the egg wash and gravy smoothly.
- Meat Thermometer: Optional, but helpful for checking oil temperature.
- Wire Rack: Great for draining excess oil; a paper towel-lined plate works too.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken Fried Steak: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
- Herb-Infused Coating: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour for a fragrant twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Version: Use thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms instead of steak for a delicious meatless alternative.
- Cheesy Gravy: Stir in shredded cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, into the gravy for a creamy, cheesy delight.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Sides: Pair your Chicken Fried Steak with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting meal.
- Refreshing Salads: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Drink Pairings: Sweet tea or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve on a rustic plate, drizzled with gravy, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs about Chicken Fried Steak
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken Fried Steak is a classic Southern dish made from tender cube steaks that are breaded and fried until golden brown. It’s typically served with a creamy country gravy, making it a comforting meal that’s hard to resist!
Can I make Chicken Fried Steak ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the breaded steaks in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just fry them right before serving for that fresh, crispy texture. The gravy can also be made ahead and reheated.
What can I serve with Chicken Fried Steak?
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttered corn. A crisp salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak and gravy.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain that crispy coating.
Can I make Chicken Fried Steak gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, you can enjoy this Southern comfort food without worrying about gluten.
Final Thoughts
Making Chicken Fried Steak is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The crispy, golden crust and creamy gravy bring a sense of warmth and comfort that can brighten even the busiest of days. I love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into a feast that everyone enjoys. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Fried Steak is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this delightful Southern classic. Trust me, every bite will be worth it!
Print
Chicken Fried Steak: Discover the Secret to Perfection!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic Southern dish featuring tender cube steaks breaded and fried to perfection, served with a rich and creamy country gravy.
Ingredients
- 4 (170 g / 6 oz) cube steaks (about 1 kg / 2 lbs total)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or enough for frying)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for gravy)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (for gravy)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for gravy)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (for gravy)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for gravy)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for gravy)
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
- Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg wash, and return to the flour for a second coating. Press the flour firmly onto the steak for a crispy crust.
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot (about 175°C / 350°F).
- Carefully add the breaded steaks to the oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In the same skillet, reduce the oil to about 2 tablespoons (or add butter if needed). Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve the chicken fried steak topped with the creamy gravy. Garnish with extra black pepper if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, let the coated steaks rest for 10-15 minutes before frying.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
- Serve with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttered corn for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
