America'S Test Kitchen: 3 Ways To Make Chicken Fried Steak

america's test kitchen chicken fried steak

America's Test Kitchen: 3 Ways to Make Chicken Fried Steak Americas,Test,Kitchen,Ways,Make,Chicken,Fried,SteakChicken Fried Steak

Hey there, food lovers! Are you tired of the same old chicken and steak routine? Ever wondered if you could combine the crispy goodness of fried chicken with the juicy tenderness of a steak? Well, you're in for a treat!

Today, we're diving into the world of Chicken Fried Steak, a dish that's practically a national treasure in some parts of the US. But did you know there are actually multiple ways to achieve that perfect golden crust and melt-in-your-mouth interior?

Get ready to discover the secrets of America's Test Kitchen, as they unveil three distinct methods for crafting the ultimate Chicken Fried Steak. From classic techniques to innovative twists, this article will have you craving this delicious comfort food. So, grab a fork and your favorite dipping sauce, and let's get cooking!

America's Test Kitchen: 3 Ways to Make Chicken Fried Steak

Craving a crispy, juicy, and utterly satisfying meal? Look no further than chicken fried steak! This beloved American classic is a true comfort food, delighting taste buds with its tender, breaded cutlet and rich, creamy gravy.

But the journey to the perfect chicken fried steak can be a bit daunting. Fear not, because America's Test Kitchen has you covered with three foolproof methods, ensuring a delicious meal every time. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, these recipes are designed to deliver a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Understanding the Basics of Chicken Fried Steak

Before we dive into the recipes, let's understand the key components that make chicken fried steak so special.

• The Cut: Traditionally, chicken fried steak is made with a cube steak—a thin, tenderized cut of beef. While other cuts like round steak or sirloin can be used, cube steak provides the optimal balance of tenderness and flavor.
• The Breading: This is where the magic happens! Chicken fried steak gets its signature crispy crust from a double-breading technique. This involves dipping the steak in flour, then egg wash, and finally, a final layer of breadcrumbs or seasoned flour.
• The Frying: The steak is then deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. This requires a high heat and a good amount of oil for that perfect crunch.
• The Gravy: A rich and savory gravy is essential for complementing the crispy steak and adding a delightful richness to the meal.

3 Methods for Making Chicken Fried Steak

1. The Classic Pan-Fried Method

This method is straightforward and requires minimal equipment. Here's how to do it:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Tenderize the steak: Pound the steak to about 1/4-inch thickness.
2. Season and bread: Season the steak with salt and pepper. Dip in flour, then egg wash, and finally, breadcrumbs.
3. Pan-fry: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the steak in the pan and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-6 minutes per side.
4. Rest and serve: Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

2. The Deep-Fried Method for Ultimate Crispiness

For the most intensely crunchy chicken fried steak, deep-frying is the way to go.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: As in the pan-fried method, tenderize, season, and bread the steak.
2. Heat the oil: Fill a large pot or deep fryer about halfway with vegetable oil and heat to 350°F (175°C).
3. Deep-fry: Carefully lower the steak into the hot oil and cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain and serve: Remove the steak from the oil and allow it to drain on paper towels. Serve immediately.

3. The Air Fryer Method for Healthier Option

Looking for a healthier alternative to deep-frying? The air fryer delivers crispy results with significantly less oil.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• Salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Tenderize, season, and bread the steak as in the previous methods.
2. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Brush with oil: Brush the outside of the steak with olive oil.
4. Air-fry: Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Making the Perfect Gravy

No chicken fried steak is complete without a delicious gravy. There are multiple ways to make gravy, but here's a simple and flavorful recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt butter: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour: Add flour and whisk continuously until smooth.
3. Add broth: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, cooking until thickened.
4. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Success

• Tenderizing is key: Pounding the steak before breading ensures it's tender and cooks evenly.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature and lead to soggy results.
• Use a good quality oil: A high smoke point oil like vegetable oil or canola oil is ideal for frying.
• Rest the steak: Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Adjust seasonings: Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different cut of meat for chicken fried steak?

A: While cube steak is traditional, other thin cuts like round steak or sirloin can be used.

Q: How do I know if the oil is hot enough for frying?

A: Drop a small piece of bread into the oil. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.

Q: Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?

A: You can bread the steak ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry.

Q: What are some good side dishes for chicken fried steak?

A: Mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, and a side of green beans or coleslaw are classic accompaniments.

Conclusion

Mastering chicken fried steak is a culinary adventure that is sure to become a family favorite. With our three methods, you can choose the technique that best suits your skills and preferences. Whether you're seeking classic pan-fried goodness, ultimate deep-fried crispiness, or a healthier air fryer option, there's a method for everyone. Don't forget to pair your chicken fried steak with a rich gravy for a truly satisfying meal.

Ready to perfect your chicken fried steak? Get your ingredients together and follow our step-by-step recipes. Your taste buds will thank you!

There you have it, friends! Three delicious ways to make chicken fried steak, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Whether you're a fan of crispy, golden-brown breading, a juicy and flavorful steak, or a combination of both, there's a recipe here for you. And don't forget about the gravy! It's the perfect finishing touch, adding a rich and savory depth to your dish.

So, don't be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite way to make this classic comfort food. And remember, the key to a truly satisfying chicken fried steak is using high-quality ingredients. Choose a good cut of steak, bread it generously, and don't be shy with the gravy. If you're looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our other recipes for chicken fried steak, as well as our vast library of other delicious meals. We're always adding new content, so there's something for everyone to enjoy.

And finally, we always love hearing from our readers! Let us know in the comments below which recipe you tried and what you thought. Did you try any variations on our recipes? Did you add your own personal touch? We'd love to hear your feedback and learn about your culinary adventures.

.Learn 3 delicious ways to make crispy, juicy chicken fried steak from America's Test Kitchen! Discover the perfect recipe for your next comfort food dinner.