What makes a perfect comfort food dish? A juicy chicken fried steak smothered in creamy gravy is my answer, made easy with tender filets and a quick breading process, perfect for a weeknight dinner, save this idea for your next family favorite meal

Chicken Fried Steak

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the comfort of a home-cooked meal with the excitement of a culinary adventure. Chicken Fried Steak is just that – a creative twist on traditional steak that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor. By using everyday ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also impressive. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their meal routine. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, Chicken Fried Steak is sure to become a new favorite.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive results, Chicken Fried Steak is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring minimal prep time and effort.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of a crispy crust and a tender steak, all achieved with straightforward cooking techniques, makes this dish perfect for special occasions or everyday meals alike.

Key Ingredients

To make Chicken Fried Steak, you’ll need a few key ingredients. First, you’ll need a steak – preferably a cut like top round or top sirloin that’s lean and tender. You’ll also need some all-purpose flour, which will be used to create the crispy coating. Eggs and buttermilk are essential for adding moisture and helping the coating adhere to the steak. For the coating itself, you’ll need some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, along with some seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Finally, you’ll need some oil for frying. Practical substitutions can be made for some of these ingredients – for example, you can use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating, or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to buttermilk.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your steak. Trim any excess fat and cut the steak into your desired portion sizes. Next, prepare your coating station by filling three shallow dishes with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, respectively. Season each dish with a pinch of salt and your choice of additional seasonings.
2. Step 2: Dip each steak portion into the flour, coating both sides evenly, then into the eggs, making sure to coat completely, and finally into the breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs gently onto the steak to ensure they stick. Place the coated steaks on a plate or tray.
3. Step 3: Heat about half an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place two of the coated steaks into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness and the coating is golden brown. Repeat with the remaining steaks.
4. Step 4: Once the steaks are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy! You can serve Chicken Fried Steak with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Handy Tips

• Always make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steak. This will help the coating crisp up immediately, preventing the steak from absorbing too much oil.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings in your coating. Paprika, chili powder, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can all add unique and delicious flavors to your Chicken Fried Steak.
• For an extra crispy coating, try chilling the coated steaks in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying. This will help the coating set and adhere to the steak better.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when making Chicken Fried Steak. The ideal temperature for frying is between 325°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the steak is cooked through. If it’s too cold, the coating won’t crisp up properly. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, and adjust the heat as needed. Also, don’t overcrowd the skillet – fry the steaks one or two at a time, depending on their size and the size of your skillet. This will help maintain the oil temperature and prevent the steaks from sticking together.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor is what sets Chicken Fried Steak apart from other dishes. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure your oil is hot enough, and don’t be shy with the breadcrumbs. A light coating won’t provide enough crunch, while a heavy coating can make the dish feel greasy. Find a balance that works for you, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of breadcrumbs or seasonings to find your perfect crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra tender steak, try pounding it thin before coating and frying. This will help it cook more evenly and quickly.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for frying. Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well and can achieve a perfect sear on the steak.
• Don’t discard the leftover oil after frying. Let it cool, then strain it and store it in the refrigerator for up to a month. It can be reused for frying other dishes.

Storage Tips

• Leftover Chicken Fried Steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before refrigerating, and reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the steaks after they’ve been coated but before they’re fried. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t touch each other, and put the sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the steaks to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Fry frozen steaks as you would fresh ones, but add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
• When reheating, make sure the steak reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While Chicken Fried Steak is typically enjoyed fresh, it can also be a thoughtful gift for friends or family, especially when paired with some homemade sides or desserts. Consider packaging the steak in a decorative tin or airtight container, along with a side of mashed potatoes or a salad in a jar. Add some fresh herbs or a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch. For a more rustic look, wrap the steak in parchment paper and twine, and include a small bottle of your favorite hot sauce or seasoning blend.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some ground cumin, smoked paprika, or dried oregano to your coating for a unique flavor twist.
• Creative toppings: Top your Chicken Fried Steak with some sautéed mushrooms, a fried egg, or a spoonful of salsa for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the steak with chicken breasts or pork cutlets for a different take on the dish. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your coating isn’t crispy, try increasing the oil temperature or using a different type of breadcrumbs. If the steak is tough, it may be overcooked – try reducing the cooking time or pounding the steak thin before frying.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the steak is overcooked, it will feel hard and dense. If it’s undercooked, it will feel soft and squishy. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should reach at least 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well-done.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze Chicken Fried Steak after it’s been coated but before it’s fried. Simply place the coated steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put it in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the steaks to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe for Chicken Fried Steak includes breadcrumbs, which contain gluten. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe for Chicken Fried Steak. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, and don’t overcrowd the skillet.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak is a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its crispy exterior, tender interior, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s a recipe that’s both easy to make and exciting to eat. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food, a lover of comfort cuisine, or just looking for a new dish to add to your rotation, Chicken Fried Steak is sure to please. So go ahead, give it a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!