If you’re a fan of comfort food, then prepare to be amazed by “The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak Recipe.” This mouthwatering dish is a true Southern classic, featuring tender, juicy steak coated in a crispy, golden breading and smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy. With just the right combination of spices and a secret ingredient, this recipe takes this beloved comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible chicken fried steak that will leave everyone craving for seconds.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Steaks
To make the ultimate chicken fried steak, you will need some good quality steaks. Round steak or cube steak are great options, as they are tender and flavorful. Make sure the steaks are about 1/4 inch thick for ideal results.
Buttermilk Marinade
Buttermilk is the secret to achieving tender and juicy chicken fried steak. The acidity in the buttermilk helps to break down the proteins in the meat, resulting in a more tender texture. Combine buttermilk with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, for a flavorful marinade.
Seasoned Flour
The crispy coating on the chicken fried steak is made from a mixture of seasoned flour. To make the seasoned flour, combine all-purpose flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little kick. This combination of spices adds a delicious flavor to the dish.
Egg Batter
To help the seasoned flour stick to the steaks, you’ll need an egg batter. Whisk together eggs and a splash of milk or buttermilk to create a smooth and creamy batter. This will give the steaks a nice, even coating.
Oil for frying
To achieve that crispy, golden-brown exterior, you’ll need to fry the chicken fried steak in oil. Vegetable or canola oil works well for frying, as they have a high smoke point. Make sure you have enough oil to fully submerge the steaks for even cooking.
Preparation
Tenderizing the steaks
Before marinating the steaks, it’s important to tenderize them. Use a meat tenderizer or the back of a knife to gently pound the steaks all over. This helps to break down the tough muscle fibers and create a more tender texture.
Marinating the steaks
Once the steaks are tenderized, place them in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk marinade over them. Make sure the steaks are fully submerged in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the steaks will become.
Coating the steaks
Remove the marinated steaks from the refrigerator and let any excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge the steaks in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat them evenly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated steaks aside.
Frying the steaks
In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
Gravy
Preparation
While the steaks are frying, you can prepare the delicious creamy gravy to accompany them. In the same skillet used for frying, drain off all but about 2 tablespoons of the oil. Add some all-purpose flour to the skillet and whisk it together with the remaining oil to create a roux. Cook the roux over medium heat until it turns a light golden brown color.
Slowly whisk in some milk, adding it gradually to avoid lumps. Continue whisking over medium heat until the gravy thickens and reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add any additional herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Serving
Once the gravy is ready, spoon it over the fried steaks, covering them completely. The creamy and flavorful gravy adds a delicious finishing touch to the chicken fried steak. Serve the steaks and gravy immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
Side Dish Suggestions
Mashed potatoes
Chicken fried steak pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes. The combination of the crispy steak and smooth, buttery mashed potatoes is simply irresistible. Serve a generous scoop of mashed potatoes alongside the steak and smother both in the delicious gravy.
Green beans
For a touch of freshness and a pop of color, steamed or sautéed green beans make a great side dish for chicken fried steak. Their crisp texture and earthy flavor complement the richness of the steak and add a healthy element to the meal.
Biscuits
To complete your chicken fried steak meal, serve it with homemade biscuits. Freshly baked biscuits provide the perfect vehicle for sopping up any leftover gravy and add a comforting warmth to the dish. Spread some butter and drizzle with honey for an extra special treat.
Tips and Tricks
Choosing the right cut of meat
When making chicken fried steak, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. Round steak or cube steak are the most common choices due to their tenderness. Look for steaks that are about 1/4 inch thick, as they will cook more evenly and tenderize better.
Pounding the steaks evenly
To ensure your steaks are tender and cook evenly, it’s crucial to pound them evenly. Use a meat tenderizer or the back of a knife to gently pound the steaks all over. This will help break down the tough muscle fibers and create a more uniform thickness.
Allowing the coating to set
After coating the steaks in seasoned flour, it’s important to allow the coating to set before frying. Let the coated steaks rest for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flour to adhere properly. This will help create a crispy and flavorful crust on the chicken fried steak.
Variations
Country-style chicken fried steak
For a southern twist on the classic recipe, try making country-style chicken fried steak. Instead of using beef, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken cutlets. The process of marinating, coating, and frying remains the same, but you’ll have a delicious chicken version of this beloved dish.
Spicy chicken fried steak
If you like some heat, add a kick of spice to your chicken fried steak. Mix some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade for an extra fiery flavor. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour for an added zing.
History and Origins
Southern roots
Chicken fried steak is a beloved dish that originated in the southern United States, particularly in Texas. It is believed to have been influenced by the German and Austrian immigrants who settled in the region. The dish became popular in the early 20th century and has remained a southern comfort food staple ever since.
Variations across the United States
While the origins of chicken fried steak may be rooted in the South, variations of the dish can be found across the United States. In the Midwest, chicken fried steak is often served with white gravy made from milk and flour. In the Southwest, green chili and cheese are commonly added to the dish, giving it a unique flavor twist.
Healthier Alternatives
Baked chicken fried steak
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version, try baking your chicken fried steak. Instead of frying the steaks in oil, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
Air-fried chicken fried steak
Another healthier option is to use an air fryer to cook your chicken fried steak. After coating the steaks in seasoned flour, place them in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The result will be a crispy and delicious chicken fried steak with significantly less oil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using too much oil
One common mistake when making chicken fried steak is using too much oil for frying. While you do need enough oil to fully submerge the steaks, using excessive amounts can make the dish greasy and heavy. Aim for about 1 inch of oil in the skillet or deep fryer for optimal results.
Not seasoning the flour properly
Seasoning the flour is crucial for adding flavor to the chicken fried steak. Avoid the mistake of not properly seasoning the flour by mixing all the spices thoroughly into the flour to ensure an even distribution. This will result in a well-seasoned and delicious coating.
Overcooking the steaks
To achieve tender and juicy chicken fried steak, it’s important not to overcook the steaks. Fried steaks cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once they turn a golden brown color and the coating is crispy, they are done and should be removed from the oil to prevent drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishing with fresh herbs
Add a touch of freshness and color to your chicken fried steak by garnishing it with fresh herbs. Chopped parsley, chives, or cilantro sprinkled on top provide a vibrant contrast to the golden brown steak and add a burst of flavor.
Serving with a side salad
Balance out the richness of the chicken fried steak by serving it with a side salad. A simple green salad with your favorite vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette dressing complements the dish well, adding a refreshing element to the meal.
Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food that brings together tender meat, a crispy coating, and a creamy gravy. With the right ingredients, proper preparation, and some helpful tips, you’ll be able to create the ultimate chicken fried steak that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you enjoy it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits, this delicious dish is sure to satisfy your craving for a hearty and flavorful meal. Let your creativity shine by exploring different variations of the dish and adding your own personal touch. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate chicken fried steak experience.
