Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved Southern classic that embodies comfort food at its finest. This dish features tenderized beef steak coated in a crispy batter and smothered in rich, creamy gravy, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy exterior gives way to juicy meat, while the savory gravy adds a luscious finish that brings everything together. Perfect for family dinners or weekend brunch, Chicken Fried Steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Chicken Fried Steak recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is simply irresistible; the contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender meat is a match made in culinary heaven. Additionally, the ease of preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. You can whip this dish up in under an hour, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a special weekend treat. Packed with protein and paired with a creamy gravy, this dish fits perfectly into a hearty, satisfying meal plan.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your Chicken Fried Steak, consider the following tips and tricks:
- Use a meat mallet to tenderize your steak, which helps to break down the fibers and results in a juicier bite.
- Let the battered steak rest for a few minutes before frying to ensure the coating adheres well.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- If you want a lighter option, bake the steak in the oven instead of frying; just spray it with cooking oil to get that golden color.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep components of your Chicken Fried Steak ahead of time:
- Tenderize and season the steaks a day in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the flour mixture a few hours ahead and keep it in an airtight container until you’re ready to fry.
- The gravy can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat before serving.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Chicken Fried Steak with these variations:
- Swap out traditional beef for chicken cutlets for a lighter version.
- Go for a gluten-free option by using a gluten-free flour blend for the batter.
- Experiment with different seasonings in the batter, such as Italian herbs or garlic powder, for a unique twist.
- Try adding diced jalapeños to the gravy for a spicy version that packs a punch.
How to Serve
Serve your Chicken Fried Steak hot, smothered in the creamy gravy. Pair it with classic Southern sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, or buttery corn on the cob. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. For a nostalgic touch, serve it on a classic diner-style plate, perhaps with a side of biscuits to really complete the meal.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Chicken Fried Steak, consider these drink pairings:
- A crisp glass of iced tea or lemonade balances the richness of the dish beautifully.
- For something stronger, a light lager or pale ale provides a refreshing contrast.
- If you prefer wine, a fruity Pinot Noir or a full-bodied Chardonnay works well.
Pair with sides like coleslaw or fried okra for that authentic Southern experience, and finish off with a slice of pecan pie for dessert.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored easily:
- Place any uneaten Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option, though this may soften the crust.
Equipment Needed
You will need the following equipment to make Chicken Fried Steak:
- A cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan for even heating.
- A meat mallet or rolling pin for tenderizing the steak.
- A shallow dish for the flour and egg wash.
- A thermometer to check oil temperature, ensuring perfect frying.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, try these adaptations:
- To make it vegan, use a plant-based protein like tempeh, and substitute dairy-free milk and flour for the coating.
- For a nut-free option, ensure that your flour is certified nut-free and avoid any nut-based milk.
- If dairy-free, opt for non-dairy butter in the gravy and use a plant-based milk.
Seasonal Adaptations
Make seasonal ingredient swaps to keep your dish fresh:
- In summer, incorporate fresh herbs like basil or dill into your gravy for a vibrant flavor.
- In fall, add pumpkin puree to the gravy for a seasonal twist.
- During winter, consider serving with roasted root vegetables for a heartier meal.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes! Chicken cutlets work beautifully for a lighter take on this dish.
Q: How can I make the gravy thicker?
A: If you want a thicker gravy, simply add a tablespoon of flour to the pan drippings while whisking until it reaches your desired consistency.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can prep the steak and gravy ahead of time; just reheat before serving.
How To Make Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved Southern classic that embodies comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef round steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (about 1 cup)
- 2 cups milk (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup butter
Instructions
- Begin by tenderizing the beef round steak with a meat mallet until it's about 1/2 inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set up a dredging station: In one shallow dish, mix together 1 cup of flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little more salt and pepper. In another dish, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.
- Dip each piece of steak first into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour for a second coating.
- Heat oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil, frying for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- For the gravy, melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Chicken Fried Steak hot, smothered in gravy.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 738Total Fat 41gSaturated Fat 19gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 19gCholesterol 254mgSodium 441mgCarbohydrates 40gFiber 1gSugar 9gProtein 50g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Fried Steak is more than just a dish; it’s a nostalgic journey back to Southern kitchens filled with warmth and love. This recipe captures the essence of comfort food while allowing for personal touches and variations. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a hearty meal, Chicken Fried Steak is a satisfying choice that will surely impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful process of creating this classic dish. Happy cooking!
