Chicken Fried Steak

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 410
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fat: 22 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sugar: 1 gram
• Sodium: 500 mg

Why Make This Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak is the epitome of comfort food—deliciously crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This dish hails from the Southern United States, where it’s cherished as a hearty, soul-satisfying meal. The combination of seasoned, battered beefsteak and creamy gravy is simply irresistible. Whether served for a family dinner, a festive gathering, or just a cozy night in, Chicken Fried Steak promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

How to Make Chicken Fried Steak

Preparing Chicken Fried Steak is not only straightforward but also incredibly rewarding. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 4 tenderized beefsteaks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• Gravy (optional, for serving)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix will coat your beefsteaks and give them a delightful flavor.

Step 2: Mixing

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth. This mixture will help the flour adhere to the steaks, creating a perfect crispy crust.

Step 3: Coating

Dip each steak first into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, transfer it to the flour mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure a generous coverage of flour on each steak.

Step 4: Cooking

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test this by dropping in a little flour; it should sizzle), fry the coated steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.

Step 5: Finishing

Remove the fried steaks from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with gravy if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak is delicious on its own, but it shines when paired with homemade gravy—cream or country-style gravy complement this dish beautifully. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget some biscuits on the side for that complete Southern experience!

How to Store Chicken Fried Steak

If you have leftovers, store the cooked Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place it in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak chewy.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Steak

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks to achieve that crispy crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet; this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy steaks.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika to the flour mixture.
• If you want a lighter option, try using chicken breasts instead of beefsteaks—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Delicious Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider:

• Spicy Chicken Fried Steak: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a kick.
• Sausage Gravy Chicken Fried Steak: Top the steak with flavorful sausage gravy instead of traditional gravy.
• Air-Fried Option: Use an air fryer for a healthier version that still offers a satisfying crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use chicken instead of beef?
  Yes! Chicken breasts can be used in place of beefsteaks. Adjust cooking time as necessary to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

• What kind of gravy is best?
  Traditional cream gravy complements Chicken Fried Steak perfectly. However, you can also use brown gravy or even mushroom gravy for a different flavor profile.

• Can I make the steak ahead of time?
  You can prepare the steaks and coat them ahead of time, storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry. Just note that they will need to be cooked fresh for best results.

• What sides pair well with Chicken Fried Steak?
  Mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread are classic accompaniments that enhance the flavors of the dish.

• How do I know when the steaks are cooked?
  The steaks should be golden brown and crispy. A meat thermometer can help, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for beef or 165°F for chicken.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak is a timeless comfort food that brings joy to the table and heartwarming flavors to family meals. With its crispy outer layer and tender meat, every bite is a delightful experience. So why not roll up your sleeves and give this easy recipe a try? You’ll be rewarded with a mouth-watering dish that will surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy cooking and happy eating!