Hey there, food lovers! Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something hearty, comforting, and oh-so-delicious? Then you need to check out these 3 easy chicken fried steak and white gravy recipes!
Chicken fried steak and white gravy is a classic dish that's truly a taste of home. But don't let the name fool you - it's anything but complicated! These recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend brunches, or even a special occasion. Ready to learn how to make this classic dish? Keep reading!
3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak & White Gravy Recipes to Make You a Kitchen Hero
Chicken fried steak, a crispy, juicy masterpiece, is a true Southern comfort food classic. It's the kind of dish that makes stomachs rumble with anticipation and families gather around the table with smiles. But you don't need to be a seasoned chef to master this culinary delight. With a little practice and the right recipe, you can whip up mouthwatering chicken fried steak and creamy white gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
This article will guide you through three easy chicken fried steak recipes, each with its own unique flavor profile. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these recipes will help you create a satisfying and delicious meal that will impress your loved ones. Get ready to dive into the world of chicken fried steak and discover why it's a timeless favorite.
The Importance of the Right Cut of Meat for Chicken Fried Steak
Choosing the right cut of meat is crucial for a successful chicken fried steak. While some recipes suggest using tenderized meat, a good cut of beef is key. For the best results, select a cube steak. This cut of meat is already tenderized, making it perfect for pounding and breading. Here's why cube steak is ideal:
- Tender: Cube steak's flat shape allows for even pounding, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.
- Flavorful: The cut typically comes from the chuck or round, offering a rich beefy flavor.
- Budget-friendly: Cube steak is a relatively affordable cut of meat, making it an excellent choice for weeknight meals.
Recipe #1: The Classic Chicken Fried Steak and White Gravy
This recipe embodies the traditional flavors of chicken fried steak, featuring simple ingredients and a timeless technique.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Pound the meat: Gently pound the cube steak with a meat mallet to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Season and bread: Season the steak with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Dip the steaks in the beaten egg, then coat them thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Fry the steak: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded steaks to the hot oil and fry for approximately 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, until the mixture is smooth and slightly browned. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently. Cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Place the fried steaks on a plate and generously pour the creamy white gravy over top. Serve immediately alongside mashed potatoes, collard greens, or your favorite sides.
Recipe #2: Southern Fried Chicken Fried Steak with Spicy Gravy
This recipe adds a touch of southern spice to the classic chicken fried steak, with a kick in the gravy that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the steak: Follow the same steps as in Recipe #1 to prepare the steak.
- Season and bread: In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Dip the steaks in the beaten egg, then coat them thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Fry the steak: Fry the steaks as described in Recipe #1.
- Make the gravy: Melt the butter in the same skillet. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Add the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens.
- Serve: Serve the fried steak with the spicy gravy and your favorite sides.
Recipe #3: Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Mushroom Gravy
This recipe offers a more sophisticated take on chicken fried steak, featuring a rich and savory mushroom gravy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the steak: Follow the same steps as in Recipe #1 to prepare the steak.
- Fry the steak: Fry the steaks as described in Recipe #1.
- Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Serve: Serve the fried steak with the creamy mushroom gravy and your favorite sides.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your chicken fried steak is consistently delicious:
- Don't skip the pounding: Pounding the meat ensures it cooks evenly and becomes tender.
- Use a heavy skillet: A cast iron skillet distributes heat evenly, which is essential for frying.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will reduce the temperature of the oil, resulting in soggy chicken fried steak.
- Let the oil heat up: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the steak.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked chicken fried steak will be dry and tough.
- Make the gravy ahead of time: The gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
How to Reheat Chicken Fried Steak
Leftover chicken fried steak can be reheated in a few different ways:
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken fried steak on a baking sheet and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter or oil and place the chicken fried steak in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place the chicken fried steak on a microwave-safe plate covered with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.
FAQs about Chicken Fried Steak
Q: What is the best way to serve chicken fried steak?
A: Chicken fried steak is traditionally served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and collard greens. However, you can also serve it with other sides like cornbread, mac and cheese, or green beans.
Q: Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?
A: You can bread the chicken fried steak ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to fry it when you're ready to eat. You can also refrigerate the gravy for up to 3 days.
Q: What are some variations on chicken fried steak?
A: You can find a variety of variations on chicken fried steak, including chicken fried chicken, chicken fried fish, and chicken fried pork chops.
Q: Is chicken fried steak healthy?
A: Chicken fried steak is a high-calorie and high-fat dish. However, you can make it healthier by using leaner cuts of meat and frying it in a healthy oil like olive oil.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of chicken fried steak is easier than you might think. These three simple recipes provide a foundation for creating a classic Southern comfort food dish that will impress your family and friends. With a little practice and a dash of creativity, you can become a kitchen hero with your own delicious version of this timeless favorite. So, gather the ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience the pure joy of a perfect chicken fried steak meal!
So there you have it, three easy chicken fried steak and white gravy recipes to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're looking for a classic buttermilk batter, a crispy beer-battered version, or a light and flavorful breadcrumb coating, these recipes have you covered. Remember, the beauty of cooking is that you can always adjust the flavors and techniques to suit your taste. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices, or try a different type of gravy. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination.
And if you're looking for more inspiration, there are countless variations and variations of chicken fried steak out there. Some people prefer to use cube steak, while others enjoy a thicker cut of meat. You can also add vegetables to your dish, such as mushrooms, onions, or peppers. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination. So, get in the kitchen, have fun, and enjoy your delicious home-cooked chicken fried steak!
Before you dive into the kitchen, be sure to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. You'll need a skillet, a whisk, and a thermometer for checking the oil temperature. Don't forget to have a comfortable apron handy to protect your clothes. And of course, take your time and enjoy the process. Cooking should be a pleasurable activity, so don't rush it. Happy cooking!
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