Best Chicken Fried Steak Recipe: Quick & Easy!

Introduction

Chicken fried steak is a hearty, comforting dish originating from the American South. A culinary cousin to Wiener Schnitzel, chicken fried steak involves tenderizing a cut of beef, breading it, and frying it until golden brown. This dish is a staple in diners and home kitchens, known for its satisfying flavor and texture. The popularity of chicken fried steak recipe stems from its affordability, simplicity, and the deeply satisfying combination of crispy breading and tender steak. Its rich gravy further enhances the experience, making it a beloved comfort food.

Ingredients

The core ingredients for a classic chicken fried steak recipe are simple yet essential for creating the desired flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown:

Steak: Cubed steak or round steak, about inch thick, is the traditional choice. These cuts are relatively inexpensive and become tender when properly prepared.
All-Purpose Flour: Used for breading, creating a crispy coating.
Eggs: Act as a binding agent for the breading, ensuring it adheres to the steak.
Milk or Buttermilk: Used to thin the egg mixture and add richness. Buttermilk adds a subtle tanginess.
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are commonly used to season the steak and flour mixture. Cayenne pepper can be added for a touch of heat.
Oil: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are good choices for frying due to their high smoke points.

Possible Substitutions:

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Milk alternatives like almond milk or soy milk can be used in place of dairy milk.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for achieving a tender and flavorful chicken fried steak. The key lies in tenderizing the meat and creating a well-seasoned breading.

Tenderize the Steak: Place the steak between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the steak to an even thickness of about inch. This process breaks down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender steak.
Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. In the second dish, whisk together eggs and milk (or buttermilk).
Bread the Steak: Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, dredge it again in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breading adheres well. This double-breading technique creates a thicker, crispier crust.
Rest (Optional): Allow the breaded steak to rest for 10-15 minutes before frying. This helps the breading adhere better and prevents it from falling off during cooking.

Tips for Efficiency and Better Flavor:

Use a zip-top bag for pounding the steak to minimize mess.
Season the flour mixture generously for maximum flavor.
Ensure the steak is completely coated in flour before dipping it into the egg mixture.

Cooking Instructions

Frying the chicken fried steak to a golden-brown perfection is the most critical step. The right temperature and timing are essential for ensuring a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a large skillet or deep fryer to reach a depth of about inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to approximately 350F (175C). Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
Fry the Steak: Carefully place the breaded steak into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy steak. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the steak should reach 145F (63C) for medium doneness.
Remove and Drain: Remove the fried steak from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps maintain the crispiness of the breading.
Make the Gravy (Optional): In the same skillet, reserve about 2 tablespoons of the oil. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk (or half-and-half) and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken fried steak is traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes and country gravy, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Here are some other serving suggestions:

Traditional Accompaniments: Mashed potatoes, country gravy, green beans, corn on the cob.
Side Dishes: Coleslaw, mac and cheese, fried okra, biscuits.
Garnishes: Chopped parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, a dollop of sour cream.
Plating Ideas: Arrange the chicken fried steak on a plate with a generous serving of mashed potatoes and green beans. Drizzle the country gravy over the steak and potatoes. Garnish with parsley for a pop of color.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To elevate your chicken fried steak and avoid common pitfalls, consider these tips:

Use the right oil temperature: Frying at too low a temperature will result in greasy steak, while too high a temperature will cause the breading to burn before the steak is cooked through. Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350F (175C).
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the steak in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
Allow the steak to rest after breading: This helps the breading adhere better and prevents it from falling off during cooking.
Season generously: Don’t be afraid to season both the steak and the flour mixture liberally.
Make sure the steak is fully cooked: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145F (63C) for medium doneness.
Common Mistakes: Using too much oil, not tenderizing the steak properly, and burning the breading.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning the chicken fried steak recipe unlocks a gateway to Southern comfort food, offering a delightful blend of crispy texture and savory flavor that satisfies any palate. The combination of its rich taste, cultural significance, and practical adaptability makes it a go-to meal for various occasions, easily adjusted to suit individual preferences. Now equipped with the knowledge to create this culinary masterpiece, it’s time to bring the warmth and flavor of the South into the kitchen. Give this recipe a try and discover the joy of homemade chicken fried steak! For more inspiring cooking guides and recipes, visit foodrecipestory.com and expand your culinary horizons.