Chicken fried steak is a classic Southern dish that has won the hearts and stomachs of food lovers everywhere. This hearty meal combines tenderized beef steak, a crispy fried coating, and creamy gravy, making it a comfort food favorite. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook chicken fried steak, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will walk you through each step, ensuring that you create a delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.
Understanding Chicken Fried Steak
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what chicken fried steak is. Traditionally, it uses a budget-friendly cut of beef—often cube steak or round steak—coated in a seasoned breading and fried until golden brown. The dish is then served smothered in a rich cream gravy, creating a harmonious combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make chicken fried steak, you will gather a combination of ingredients for the steak batter, the frying process, and the gravy. Here’s a comprehensive list:
For the Chicken Fried Steak
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Gravy
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps: Cooking Chicken Fried Steak
Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s break down the preparation into manageable steps.
Step 1: Preparing the Meat
The first step in cooking chicken fried steak is to tenderize your meat. If you’ve purchased pre-tenderized cube steak, you can skip this step. However, if you are using a tougher cut of meat, consider the following:
Tenderizing the Steak
- Place the steaks between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the meat until it’s about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season both sides of the steaks with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Setting Up Your Breading Station
To create the perfect coating for your chicken fried steak, you will need a designated breading station. Here’s how to set it up:
- In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Step 3: Breading the Steak
Now, it’s time to coat the steaks:
- Dip each seasoned steak into the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are coated well.
- Next, dip the steak into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, return the steak to the flour mixture, pressing down firmly to create a thick coating. This double coating process is the key to a crispy exterior.
Step 4: Frying the Chicken Fried Steak
To achieve that signature golden brown tone, frying is crucial:
- In a large skillet, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
- Carefully place the breaded steaks into the hot oil. Fry in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding the pan.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip the steak, and fry for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side.
- Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Making the Cream Gravy
While the chicken fried steak cools slightly, you can prepare the creamy gravy to accompany it. This rich sauce is what elevates the dish to another level.
Step 1: Roux Preparation
- In the same skillet used for frying—after removing excess oil—add 1/4 cup of flour to the drippings left in the pan.
- Stir the flour into the drippings and cook over medium heat until it becomes a light golden color, about 1-2 minutes. This is called a roux, and it will help thicken the gravy.
Step 2: Adding Milk
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Continue to whisk the mixture while cooking on medium heat until it thickens. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Once your chicken fried steak and creamy gravy are ready, it’s time to serve! Here are some suggestions for making a complete meal:
Plate Presentation
- Place a piece of chicken fried steak on a serving plate.
- Spoon a generous amount of gravy over the top.
- Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn for a complete Southern experience.
Variations and Add-Ons
- For an added flavor kick, consider incorporating some hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce into your gravy.
- You can also exchange cube steak for pork chops or chicken breast for a variation on flavors.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 4 days. For optimal flavor, reheat your chicken fried steak in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
- Choose the Right Cut of Meat: It’s essential to select a cut that has enough tenderness when cooked. Cube steak is preferred due to its tenderness and flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Breading Process: Take your time with the breading to ensure that each piece is well coated, which will lead to a satisfying crunch.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: If the oil is not hot enough, your steak will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Conversely, if it’s too hot, the outside will burn while the inside remains raw.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken fried steak may seem daunting at first, but with the right ingredients and a step-by-step approach, you can master this delightful Southern dish. Remember to take your time with each step, and don’t hesitate to customize the recipe to your liking. Enjoy your cooking journey, and soon you will be serving up delicious chicken fried steak that your friends and family will love. Bon appétit!
What is chicken fried steak?
Chicken fried steak is a beloved Southern dish that features a breaded and fried beef steak, typically a tenderized cube steak. The name can be a bit misleading, as it does not involve chicken, but rather a preparation style that is similar to how fried chicken is made. It is usually served with creamy gravy on top, which enhances its flavor and adds richness to the dish.
This comfort food is often enjoyed at diners and Southern kitchens, where it is cherished for its satisfying crunch and flavorful depth. The combination of the crispy coating with the juicy meat creates a delightful contrast that makes chicken fried steak a popular choice for many.
How do you make chicken fried steak crispy?
To achieve a perfectly crispy chicken fried steak, the key is in the breading process. It typically involves dredging the meat in seasoned flour, dipping it in buttermilk or an egg wash, and then coating it again in the flour mixture. This double-dipping technique ensures a thick, crunchy crust that locks in moisture from the steak during frying.
Additionally, using a cast-iron skillet can help in creating an even, crispy texture, as the cast iron retains heat well. The oil should also be at the right temperature, usually around 350°F (175°C), to ensure that the steak fries quickly and evenly without absorbing too much oil.
What’s the best cut of meat for chicken fried steak?
The best cuts of meat for chicken fried steak are those that are tender and can withstand the frying process. Cube steak, which is usually top sirloin or round steak that has been tenderized, is a popular choice. Other options include flank steak or sirloin, but it’s important to ensure that they are pounded thin to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Using a tenderizing method such as pounding with a meat mallet is essential. This not only helps in making the meat more tender but also allows it to absorb the flavors of the breading and gravy more effectively, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken fried steak in advance, although it’s best served fresh for maximum crispiness. You can bread the steaks and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to cover them properly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep them from drying out.
If you prefer, you can also fully cook the chicken fried steak, allow it to cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the oven to retain some of that crispy texture, although the frying will deliver the best results.
What sauces or sides pair well with chicken fried steak?
Chicken fried steak is traditionally served with creamy white gravy made from the drippings of the frying process, which is a must-have accompaniment. The rich and savory flavor of the gravy perfectly complements the crispy steak, adding moisture and enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
As for sides, classic options include mashed potatoes, collard greens, or fried okra. You can also serve it with a side of biscuits or cornbread, which soak up the gravy nicely and round out the meal beautifully.
Is chicken fried steak gluten-free?
Typically, chicken fried steak is not gluten-free due to the use of regular flour in the breading process. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting the all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives such as almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Additionally, be sure to check that the other ingredients, like seasonings and buttermilk, are also gluten-free. With these adjustments, you can enjoy a deliciously crispy chicken fried steak that accommodates gluten-free dietary needs.