3-Ingredient Chicken Fried Steak with White Gravy Recipe
Ingredient,Chicken,Fried,Steak,with,White,Gravy,RecipeChicken Fried Steak
Hey there, food lovers! Ever crave something comforting but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? We've got you covered! Are you ready to discover a recipe that's as simple as it is delicious? We're talking about a dish that only needs three ingredients, and it's packed with flavor - we're talking about 3-Ingredient Chicken Fried Steak with White Gravy! Keep reading to learn how to whip up this crowd-pleasing meal in a snap!
3-Ingredient Chicken Fried Steak with White Gravy: A Southern Comfort Classic
Craving a juicy, crispy, and utterly delicious meal that's ridiculously easy to make? Look no further than the classic 3-Ingredient Chicken Fried Steak with White Gravy! This Southern comfort food staple is a true crowd-pleaser, and it's surprisingly simple to whip up even if you're a novice in the kitchen.
This recipe lives up to its name with only three core ingredients: steak, flour, and milk. But don't let the simplicity fool you – the results are truly mouthwatering! Get ready to learn the secrets to creating the perfect crispy crust, the most flavorful white gravy, and a satisfyingly tender chicken fried steak that will leave you wanting more.
1. The Perfect Cut: Choosing Your Steak
The foundation of a great chicken fried steak is, of course, the steak. While you can use any cut you prefer (even a thin-sliced sirloin can work), the most traditional choice is a cube steak.
- Cube steaks are thin, tenderized cuts of beef that are specifically designed for frying. The tenderizing process makes them incredibly easy to cook, resulting in a juicy and flavorful steak without the need for long cooking times.
- Other options: If you're not able to find cube steaks, you can also use thinly sliced chuck steak or round steak. Just make sure to pound them flat with a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly.
2. The Crispy Crust: Mastering the Flour Dredge
The key to a truly awesome chicken fried steak is a perfectly crispy crust. This is where the flour comes in.
- The Trick: The secret to achieving a golden-brown, crunchy crust is to utilize a double dredge technique. This involves coating the steak in flour, then dipping it in milk, and then coating it in flour again. This double coating creates a barrier that locks in moisture and helps the crust brown beautifully.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When frying your steak, make sure to give each piece ample space in the pan. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature of the oil, resulting in a soggy crust.
3. The Creamy Gravy: Creating a Flavor Bomb
No chicken fried steak is complete without a generous dollop of white gravy. This rich and creamy sauce is the perfect complement to the crispy steak and adds a delicious depth of flavor to the whole dish.
- The Key Ingredient: The star of the show in white gravy is milk. The milk combines with the flour and drippings from the steak to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Seasoning Secrets: To elevate your gravy, don't be afraid to experiment with seasonings. Adding a pinch of black pepper, a sprinkle of onion powder, or even a dash of garlic powder can significantly enhance the flavor.
4. Cooking Your Chicken Fried Steak to Perfection
Now comes the exciting part – actually cooking your chicken fried steak!
- Heat is Key: To achieve a perfect golden-brown crust, make sure to use high heat when frying your steak. The high temperature will ensure that the steak is cooked quickly and evenly without becoming tough.
- Don't Overcook: Pay close attention to your steaks while they're cooking. If they get too dark, they may be overcooked and dry. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your steak, so it's best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F.
5. Serving Up Your Masterpiece
Once your chicken fried steak is cooked to perfection, it's time to enjoy it!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your chicken fried steak hot, and be sure to add a generous helping of creamy white gravy. You can also pair it with a side of mashed potatoes, creamy coleslaw, or a side of fresh green beans.
6. Troubleshooting and Tips
Even seasoned cooks can encounter a few hiccups when preparing a chicken fried steak. Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes:
- Preventing Soggy Crust: If you're worried about your chicken fried steak getting soggy, try preheating your oven to 200°F and placing the cooked steaks on a baking sheet to keep them warm and crisp while you make your gravy.
- Thinning Out Thick Gravy: If your white gravy seems too thick, simply add a splash of milk or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cube steaks?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cube steaks. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe.
Q: What kind of flour should I use?
**A: ** All-purpose flour is a good choice for chicken fried steak. However, if you want a crispier crust, you can use a blend of all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
Q: Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
**A: ** While the gravy is best fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
Q: What are some substitutes for milk in the gravy?
A: You can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or even buttermilk if you want a tangier flavor.
Conclusion
3-Ingredient Chicken Fried Steak with White Gravy is a deliciously simple meal that's perfect for any occasion. From family dinners to weekend brunches, this classic dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience the joy of creating this Southern comfort food masterpiece!
Call to Action: Ready to taste the magic of Chicken Fried Steak? Try out this easy recipe today and let us know what you think! Share your culinary creations on social media and don't forget to tag us!
So there you have it! A super simple, super delicious recipe for 3-Ingredient Chicken Fried Steak with White Gravy. This recipe is a lifesaver when you're short on time but still want a comforting and satisfying meal. The key to this recipe is getting the chicken fried steak to be perfectly crispy. You want a golden brown, crunchy exterior. You can achieve this by patting the steak dry, generously seasoning it with salt and pepper, and using a hot skillet. You know it's ready when it starts to bubble and sizzle.
Making the white gravy is just as easy. You simply whisk together butter, flour, and milk in a saucepan. Make sure you cook it on low heat so it doesn't burn. The white gravy enhances the flavor of the chicken fried steak without overpowering it. The creamy texture is just what you need to complete this dish. So, if you're looking for a simple, satisfying, and flavorful meal, try out this recipe. You'll be surprised by how much you can achieve with just three ingredients. It's a great option for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious, down-home meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Let me know what you think in the comments below! I'd love to hear about your experience making this recipe. If you have any questions, feel free to ask! This is a recipe you can easily adapt to your liking. Try using different cuts of meat, such as pork chops or even chicken breasts. You can also add your favorite spices to the mix. Get creative and experiment with the flavors. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious 3-Ingredient Chicken Fried Steak with White Gravy!