Welcome to the world of comfort food with this mouthwatering chicken fried steak recipe! This Southern classic combines a breaded and fried beef cutlet that is smothered in creamy gravy, making it a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious dish!
Ingredients
– 1 pound cube steak
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of chicken fried steak (about 1 piece with gravy) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g fat, 35g protein, and 30g carbohydrates. This is based on a serving size of one piece.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by tenderizing the cube steak with a meat mallet.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix them with the buttermilk.
- Dip each piece of steak into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat the steak in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry each steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove steaks and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add leftover flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add beef broth and milk, stirring until thickened to make gravy.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cube steak with chicken breast for a lighter version. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken fried steak is best served with creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad. For an authentic touch, add biscuits or cornbread to soak up the gravy.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Freezing is also possible; wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not tenderizing the steak properly can result in a tough texture.
- Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, causing sogginess.
- Using too much flour can make the coating heavy.
- Not letting the oil heat up adequately before frying can lead to greasy steak.
- Skipping the resting time after frying can make the coating fall off.
Helpful Tips
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature (around 350°F/175°C).
- Let the fried steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in buttermilk overnight.
- Consider adding spices to the flour for a personalized touch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef for chicken fried steak?
Yes, you can use chicken breast as a substitute for beef. Just adjust the cooking time as chicken may cook faster than beef.
What can I serve with chicken fried steak?
Popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, or biscuits, which complement the flavors well.
How do I store leftover chicken fried steak?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
Can I freeze chicken fried steak?
Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap each steak tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Is chicken fried steak the same as country fried steak?
While similar, chicken fried steak is typically served with a creamier gravy, whereas country fried steak uses a brown gravy.
Conclusion
Chicken fried steak is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its crispy coating and rich gravy, it’s a meal that satisfies both heart and appetite. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Try it today and enjoy the taste of Southern comfort!
Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Start by tenderizing the cube steak with a meat mallet.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix them with the buttermilk.
- Dip each piece of steak into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat the steak in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry each steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove steaks and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add leftover flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add beef broth and milk, stirring until thickened to make gravy.
Nutrition
