There’s something truly comforting about a home-cooked meal that reminds you of family gatherings, and Chicken Fried Steak has a special place in those memories for me. The first time I tasted it was at my grandmother’s house during a Sunday family dinner. The aroma of frying steak mixed with spices filled the kitchen, and a sense of warmth enveloped us all. It’s hard to forget the crispiness of the breading combined with the juicy steak. Every bite seemed to come with a side of nostalgia, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. This delightful dish is not just for Sundays; it can be a regular feature on your dinner table, bringing a taste of home no matter the occasion.
What is Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern American dish that features breaded and fried beef, typically cube steak, served with gravy. Despite its name, it does not contain chicken; the term “fried” refers to the cooking method, akin to fried chicken. The dish is made by marinating the cube steak in buttermilk, dredging it in seasoned flour, and frying it until golden and crispy. Traditionally served with creamy gravy, Chicken Fried Steak is a hearty meal that balances flavors and textures, making it a favorite in many households.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Steak:
There are many reasons to love Chicken Fried Steak:
- Quick and simple to prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Family-friendly meal: Its unique flavor appeals to both children and adults, making it a hit for family dinners.
- Great for beginners: Even novice cooks can successfully make this dish with just a bit of practice.
- Versatile: You can customize the seasoning and gravy options to cater to your family’s preferences.
- Comfort food at its finest: Perfect for those evenings when you need some cozy food to lift your spirits.
Ingredients
To make Chicken Fried Steak, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 pound cube steak
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gravy for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions on Chicken Fried Steak
1. Start by marinating the cube steak in buttermilk for at least one hour, or better yet, overnight in the refrigerator to increase tenderness and flavor.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it well for even seasoning.
3. Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small amount of flour sizzles when added.
4. Remove the steak from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly on both sides.
5. Carefully place the coated steak in the hot oil, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about three to five minutes per side.
6. Once cooked, remove the steak and let it drain on paper towels. Serve hot with gravy on top or on the side if desired.
Pro Tips and Variations:
– **Make it extra crispy:** For an added crunch, repeat the dredging process, dipping the steak back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.
– **Seasoning variations:** Feel free to experiment with other spices like cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or Italian seasoning for a change.
– **Gravy options:** You can make a classic milk gravy, or for something different, try a mushroom gravy or jalapeño gravy for an added kick.
– **Substitutions:** If cube steak isn’t available, tenderized round steak or even chicken cutlets can be used for a twist on this dish.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken Fried Steak is best served hot right out of the skillet. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, some sautéed greens, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. The dish shines when topped with homemade gravy; its creamy texture contrasts wonderfully with the crispy steak. You could also serve it with biscuits on the side for that authentic Southern experience. Experiment with various sides like coleslaw or roasted vegetables to keep things interesting.
How to Store Chicken Fried Steak
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the steak in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep the breading crispy. If you prefer microwaving, do so on a low setting for a short time to avoid sogginess. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the cooked steak for up to three months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
Nutrition Information
A typical serving of Chicken Fried Steak (without gravy) contains roughly:
– Calories: 400
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 2g
These values can vary based on the specific ingredients and oils used, so it’s beneficial to adjust portion sizes or ingredients according to your dietary needs.
FAQs About Chicken Fried Steak
**1. Can I use a different cut of meat?**
Yes, while cube steak is traditional, you can use any tenderized cuts of beef or even chicken for a completely different dish.
2. What can I do if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
3. Is Chicken Fried Steak spicy?
It typically isn’t spicy, but you can add spices like cayenne pepper or black pepper to elevate the heat according to your preference.
4. Can I make Chicken Fried Steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the steak and coat it ahead of time, then fry it just before serving to enjoy the best texture.
Conclusion
Making Chicken Fried Steak at home is not only satisfying but also an opportunity to create lasting memories around your dinner table. This recipe is simple yet incredibly rewarding, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal with loved ones. Whether you’re following a special occasion or just craving some home-cooked goodness, Chicken Fried Steak is sure to delight. Try this recipe and share your cooking experience; I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients
Method
- Marinate the cube steak in buttermilk for at least one hour, or ideally overnight in the refrigerator.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot.
- Remove steak from buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture.
- Carefully place the coated steak in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side.
- Remove the steak and let it drain on paper towels. Serve hot with gravy if desired.