Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved Southern dish that combines the best of both worlds: a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Made from seasoned beef round steak, this dish is fried to perfection and often served with a rich, creamy gravy that takes comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or looking to impress with a traditional Southern favorite, this Chicken Fried Steak recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients:
1 pound (450 g) beef round steak, cut into 4 pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup milk
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Prepare the Steaks: Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) to keep the steaks warm. Use a meat mallet to pound the steak pieces to about 1/2 inch thick.
Season and Dredge: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, buttermilk, and hot sauce if using.
Coat the Steaks: Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the flour mixture again. This double coating ensures a crispy, flavorful crust.
Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Keep Warm: Transfer the cooked steaks to a baking sheet and keep them warm in the oven while frying the remaining steaks.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken fried steak warm, topped with creamy gravy if desired.
Serving Tips:
Classic Pairings: Serve your Chicken Fried Steak with traditional Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw. A buttery biscuit on the side adds an extra touch of comfort.
Gravy Options: While creamy white gravy is the classic choice, you can also serve it with a rich brown gravy or even a peppercorn sauce for a different flavor profile.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top of the steak for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A dash of hot sauce on the side is perfect for those who like a bit of heat.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent sogginess, place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked and cooled steaks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the steaks on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes to regain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
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FAQs:
Can I use a different cut of beef for Chicken Fried Steak?
Yes, while beef round steak is commonly used, you can also use cube steak, which is pre-tenderized and often used in Chicken Fried Steak recipes. If you choose a different cut, such as sirloin or flank steak, make sure to tenderize it well with a meat mallet to achieve the best texture.
How do I make the gravy for Chicken Fried Steak?
To make a classic white gravy, use the drippings left in the pan after frying the steaks. Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the drippings and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve it over the steak.
Can I make Chicken Fried Steak in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make a lighter version of Chicken Fried Steak in an air fryer. Follow the recipe to coat the steaks, then place them in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C). Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is crispy and the steak is cooked through.
Why is my Chicken Fried Steak not crispy?
If your Chicken Fried Steak isn’t crispy, it could be due to a few factors. First, ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the coating will absorb more oil and become soggy. Additionally, make sure to double-coat the steaks with the flour mixture, and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and prevent proper frying.
Conclusion:
Chicken Fried Steak is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of Southern tradition and comfort. With its crispy coating and tender meat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will bring the flavors of the South right to your kitchen.
📖 Recipe:
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Chicken Fried Steak
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Experience Southern comfort food at its best with this Chicken Fried Steak recipe. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this classic dish is made with seasoned beef round steak, fried to golden perfection. Serve it with creamy gravy for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a hearty meal, Chicken Fried Steak is a must-try Southern favorite.
Ingredients
1 pound (450 g) beef round steak, cut into 4 pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) to keep the steaks warm.
- Use a meat mallet to pound the steak pieces to about 1/2 inch thick.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, buttermilk, and hot sauce if using.
- Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the flour mixture again.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the cooked steaks to a baking sheet and keep them warm in the oven while frying the remaining steaks.
- Serve warm, with gravy if desired.
Notes
Ensure the steaks are evenly pounded to cook uniformly.
Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
For a lighter version, try making the Chicken Fried Steak in an air fryer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 per serving
