3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Delicious

easy chicken fried steak

3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Delicious Easy,Chicken,Fried,Steak,Recipes,Crispy,DeliciousChicken Fried Steak

Hey there, food lovers! Ready to ditch the takeout and whip up a meal that's both comforting and crowd-pleasing? We're talking about chicken fried steak, a dish that's practically a national treasure. But who has time for complicated recipes, right? That's why we've got you covered with three easy chicken fried steak recipes that are guaranteed to impress. So grab your aprons, and get ready to dive into some crispy, delicious goodness! Keep reading to find out how to make this iconic dish in a snap.

3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Delicious

Craving a hearty and satisfying meal that screams comfort food? Look no further than chicken fried steak, a classic dish beloved for its crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior. While this iconic dish might seem intimidating to make, it's actually surprisingly simple! Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, these three easy recipes will have you mastering the art of chicken fried steak in no time.

Get ready to savor the perfect blend of crispy, juicy, and flavorful goodness.

What is Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken fried steak, also known as country fried steak, is a dish consisting of a thin, pounded steak coated in seasoned flour and then fried until golden brown and crispy. The result? A mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

While the name might suggest chicken, it's actually a beef dish that draws inspiration from the classic Southern dish, "chicken-fried chicken." The “chicken” part refers to the breading and frying technique, not the actual meat.

The History of Chicken Fried Steak

While the exact origins of chicken fried steak are debated, it's widely believed to have emerged in Texas in the late 19th century. At the time, cattle ranching was a booming industry, making beef readily available and affordable. The dish likely evolved from "breaded steak," which was a popular way to use tougher cuts of meat that were difficult to cook otherwise.

Over time, chicken fried steak gained popularity across the Southern states and eventually became a beloved classic on menus nationwide.

The Key to Success: Tenderizing and Breading

The secret to the perfect chicken fried steak lies in the preparation. The first step is tenderizing the steak to ensure a consistently tender bite. You can use a meat mallet, which is a specialized tool designed for this purpose.

Next comes the breading process:

1. Seasoning: Season the steak generously with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge: Dip the steak in a mixture of flour, seasoned with herbs and spices, to create a flavorful base.
3. Dip: Submerge the steak in beaten eggs or buttermilk, which act as a binding agent for the breading.
4. Coat: Finally, coat the steak with the breading mixture once more, ensuring complete coverage.

3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes

Now, let's dive into the recipes! These three variations offer different flavor profiles and levels of complexity, making it easy to find one that suits your preferences and cooking skills.

1. Classic Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

This recipe is the quintessential chicken fried steak, perfect for those who prefer a traditional, comforting taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, center-cut beef sirloin steak, sliced about 1/2 inch thick
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• For the Gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Tenderize: Gently pound the steak to about 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet.
2. Season: Season the steak liberally with salt and pepper.
3. Breading:
   • Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish for the breading mixture.
   • Beat eggs and milk together in a separate shallow dish.
   • Dredge the steak in flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat it completely in the flour mix again.
4. Fry: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the steak in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Rest: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Drizzle the gravy over the chicken fried steak and enjoy!

2. Spicy Chicken Fried Steak with Pepper Jack Gravy

Bring a kick to your chicken fried steak with this spicy variation!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, center-cut beef sirloin steak, sliced about 1/2 inch thick
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• For the Gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese

Instructions:

1. Tenderize: Gently pound the steak to about 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet.
2. Season: Season with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Breading:
   • Combine flour in a shallow dish.
   • Beat eggs and buttermilk together in a separate shallow dish.
   • Dredge the steak in flour, dip in the egg mixture, and coat again in flour.
4. Fry: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Rest: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes to drain excess oil.
6. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in milk. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and stir in Pepper Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Serve: Pour the spicy gravy over the chicken fried steak.

3. Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

For those who love savory and earthy flavors, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, center-cut beef sirloin steak, sliced about 1/2 inch thick
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• For the Gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup sliced cremini mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Tenderize: Gently pound the steak to about 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet.
2. Season: Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Breading:
   • Combine flour in a shallow dish.
   • Beat eggs and milk in a separate shallow dish.
   • Dredge the steak in flour, dip in the egg mixture, and coat again in flour.
4. Fry: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Rest: Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes.
6. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, then bring to a simmer.
7. Add Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the gravy and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve: Pour the mushroom gravy over the chicken fried steak and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Steak

• Choose a good quality steak: For the best results, select a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye.
• Don't overcook: Overcooked steak will become dry and chewy. Aim for medium-rare to medium doneness for the most flavorful and juicy results.
• Properly season the breading: Using a combination of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder will add depth of flavor to the breading.
• Let the steak rest: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Don't overcrowd the skillet: Fry the steaks in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can result in soggy breading.

FAQ

1. Can I use other types of meat for chicken fried steak?

While beef is the traditional choice, you can certainly experiment with other cuts of meat like pork loin, veal cutlets, or even chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Does chicken fried steak have to be fried?

While frying delivers the classic crispy texture, you can bake or pan-sear chicken fried steak if you prefer a healthier option. However, frying is recommended for optimal crispness.

3. What are some great side dishes for chicken fried steak?

Chicken fried steak pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, creamy mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread.

4. How long does chicken fried steak stay good for?

Leftover chicken fried steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or microwave.

5. How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

To prevent the breading from falling off, ensure you have a good coating of egg or buttermilk before dredging the steak in flour. Also, be sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before frying.

Conclusion

Chicken fried steak is a true comfort food favorite that’s easy to make at home. With these three recipes as your guide, you'll be able to impress your family and friends with this classic dish.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and toppings to create your own unique chicken fried steak experience!

Ready to get cooking? Try out these recipes and share your culinary triumphs with us. Let us know which one is your favorite!

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There you have it, three simple, yet flavorful chicken fried steak recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eater. Each recipe offers a unique twist, from the classic buttermilk batter to the spicy kick of jalapenos, all while retaining the crispy, juicy goodness that makes chicken fried steak so irresistible. No matter which recipe you choose, be sure to serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans, for a truly satisfying meal.

Remember, the key to a great chicken fried steak is to start with high-quality ingredients. Choose a tender cut of steak, preferably a thin one, like a cube steak or a round steak. Don't be afraid to experiment with your seasonings. Add a pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to your batter for extra flavor. And finally, don't forget the crispy, golden-brown crust. A good dredge in flour and a quick fry in hot oil will ensure that your chicken fried steak is truly delicious.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and try one of these recipes today! After all, there's no better way to enjoy a comforting, classic meal than with a perfectly crispy and juicy chicken fried steak. And if you're looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our other blog posts for even more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!

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