15 Best Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Flavorful

chicken fried steak recipes

15 Best Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Flavorful Best,Chicken,Fried,Steak,Recipes,Crispy,FlavorfulChicken Fried Steak Recipes

Hey there, food lovers! Ready to take your taste buds on a delicious journey? We're talking crispy, juicy, and oh-so-flavorful chicken fried steak – a dish that's guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Do you know that chicken fried steak is a comfort food staple enjoyed by millions across the country? But have you ever wondered what the secret is to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust and tender, succulent meat? You're in for a treat, because we've got the inside scoop on 15 of the best chicken fried steak recipes, each one guaranteed to make you say "Wow! That's good!"

From classic Southern recipes to modern twists, we've got something for everyone, and we're going to dive into the secrets of how to make your chicken fried steak truly stand out. So, buckle up and get ready to explore a world of crispy, flavorful perfection! Don't forget to read all the way through, you don't want to miss the best part!

15 Best Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Flavorful

Craving a comforting, hearty meal that's sure to satisfy? Look no further than chicken fried steak, a classic American dish celebrated for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. But with so many variations out there, finding the perfect chicken fried steak recipe can be a challenge.

This guide will take you through a curated selection of 15 top-rated chicken fried steak recipes, each offering unique flavors and techniques to elevate your culinary skills. From traditional buttermilk-brined options to innovative twists with Asian-inspired glazes, we've got something for every taste bud.

Get ready to embark on a delicious journey as we explore the world of crispy goodness and uncover the secrets to creating the ultimate chicken fried steak!

1. The Classic Buttermilk-Brined Chicken Fried Steak

This recipe represents the quintessential chicken fried steak experience, showcasing the traditional method of brining the meat in buttermilk for a tender, flavorful result.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Combine the buttermilk, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
2. Add the cube steak to the buttermilk mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, and green beans.

Tip: Use a meat mallet to tenderize the cube steak before brining, resulting in a more tender final product.

2. Spicy Korean-Style Chicken Fried Steak

Inject a burst of flavor into your chicken fried steak with this Korean-inspired recipe. It uses gochujang, a fermented Korean chili paste, to add a sweet and spicy kick.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the buttermilk, gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper.
2. Add the cube steak to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
4. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, coating it evenly.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with a side of kimchi and steamed rice.

Tip: For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.

3. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak

Want to enjoy the delicious taste of chicken fried steak without the guilt? This air fryer recipe is a healthier and more convenient option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the buttermilk, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the cube steak to the buttermilk mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5. Brush the steak with olive oil and place it in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tip: Preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes before cooking to ensure even browning.

4. The Best Oven-Baked Chicken Fried Steak

Love the idea of chicken fried steak but prefer a less messy approach? This oven-baked recipe is perfect for those who don't want to deal with hot oil splatters.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the buttermilk, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the cube steak to the buttermilk mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, coating it evenly.
5. Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with olive oil.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tip: To ensure even cooking, use a baking thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. It should reach a minimum of 145°F.

5. Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy

No chicken fried steak is complete without its signature creamy, flavorful gravy. Here's a simple recipe that will perfectly complement your crispy steak.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour until smooth.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
4. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the gravy over your chicken fried steak and serve immediately.

Tip: Add a pinch of onion powder and garlic powder to the gravy for extra flavor.

6. "Chicken" Fried Portobello Mushrooms

Looking for a vegetarian alternative to the classic chicken fried steak? This recipe uses portobello mushrooms for a delicious and satisfying plant-based option.

Ingredients:

• 4 large portobello mushrooms
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Remove the stems from the mushrooms and clean them thoroughly.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the buttermilk, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip the mushroom caps in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
5. Dredge the mushrooms in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve immediately with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy.

Tip: To enhance the mushroom flavor, brush the caps with olive oil and grill them for 5-7 minutes before breading and frying.

7. Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

Elevate your chicken fried steak experience with this decadent creamy mushroom gravy.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and mushrooms and cook until softened.
3. Whisk in the flour until smooth.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
5. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Pour the gravy over your chicken fried steak and serve immediately.

Tip: For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.

8. Chicken Fried Steak with a Sweet and Spicy Glaze

This chicken fried steak recipe blends sweet and savory flavors with a tangy chili glaze.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup gochujang
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions:

1. Combine the buttermilk, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
2. Add the cube steak to the buttermilk mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, gochujang, and soy sauce.
8. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened.
9. Pour the glaze over the cooked chicken fried steak and serve immediately.

Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for an extra kick.

FAQ: Chicken Fried Steak

1. What type of meat is best for chicken fried steak?

While cube steak is the most popular choice due to its tender texture, you can also use other cuts like round steak or sirloin.

2. Why should I brine the steak in buttermilk?

Brining in buttermilk helps tenderize the steak and add a rich, tangy flavor. It also creates a crispy crust when the steak is fried.

3. Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread and fry the steak up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

4. What are some good side dishes for chicken fried steak?

Chicken fried steak pairs well with classic American sides like mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, green beans, cornbread, and coleslaw.

5. Is there a healthier version of chicken fried steak?

Yes, you can make a healthier version by using a leaner cut of meat or using a baking method instead of deep frying. You can also use a lighter breading mixture, such as a blend of whole wheat flour and oats.

Conclusion: Crispy Perfection Awaits

From classic buttermilk-brined to creative Korean-inspired variations, there's a chicken fried steak recipe out there waiting to become your new favorite meal. Remember the key elements: tenderization, a flavorful marinade, a crisp, golden-brown crust, and a delicious gravy to complete the experience.

So, grab your favorite recipe and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food with a crispy, flavorful twist!

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So there you have it! 15 absolutely delicious Chicken Fried Steak recipes, ranging from classic comfort food to exciting twists on the traditional. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your craving. Remember, the key to a truly amazing Chicken Fried Steak is a crispy, golden crust. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different breading techniques and seasonings to find your perfect combination. And most importantly, have fun with it! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so put on some music, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create your own culinary masterpiece.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Chicken Fried Steak is a wonderfully versatile dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes, gravy-drenched green beans, or a light and refreshing salad. For a more sophisticated touch, top it with a rich, flavorful sauce like mushroom gravy or a tangy lemon-garlic glaze. The possibilities are truly endless!

So go forth and conquer your kitchen with these inspiring Chicken Fried Steak recipes. Share your creations with friends and family, and don’t forget to tag us on social media. We can’t wait to see your delicious results! Happy cooking!

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