If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this homemade chicken fried steak recipe. This Southern classic combines the irresistible crispiness of fried chicken with the hearty satisfaction of steak. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making a delicious homemade chicken fried steak recipe from scratch, ensuring that your dish turns out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this homemade chicken fried steak recipe is sure to impress.
1. Introduction to Chicken Fried Steak
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak is a dish that combines the best of two worlds: the crunchy, flavorful coating of fried chicken and the hearty, juicy tenderness of steak. Despite its name, there’s no chicken involved in this dish. The term “chicken fried” refers to the method of cooking, which is similar to how you would prepare fried chicken. The steak is breaded, fried until crispy, and then often served with a generous helping of creamy white gravy.
The Origins and History of Chicken Fried Steak
The exact origins of chicken fried steak are somewhat unclear, but it is widely believed to have evolved from the German and Austrian dish Wiener Schnitzel, which is a breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet. German and Austrian immigrants brought this culinary technique to Texas and the Southern United States in the 19th century, where it was adapted to use more affordable cuts of beef, leading to the creation of chicken fried steak. Over time, this dish has become a staple of Southern cuisine, often served in diners, family kitchens, and special occasions across the region.
2. Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
Traditional Cuts Used for Chicken Fried Steak
The most common cut of meat used for chicken fried steak is cube steak. Cube steak is typically a round or top sirloin cut that has been tenderized by pounding it with a meat mallet or by running it through a mechanical tenderizer. The tenderizing process creates small indentations on the surface of the meat, giving it a distinctive “cubed” appearance, hence the name.
Cube steak is an ideal choice because it’s relatively inexpensive and cooks quickly while still maintaining a tender texture. However, if you cannot find cube steak, you can also use other cuts such as round steak, top sirloin, or bottom round steak. Just be sure to tenderize these cuts thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe.
The Importance of Tenderizing the Steak
Tenderizing the steak is a crucial step in making chicken fried steak. The tenderizing process helps break down the tough muscle fibers in the meat, resulting in a steak that is juicy and tender after frying. If you’re using a cut that hasn’t been pre-tenderized, you can do this yourself using a meat mallet. Simply place the steak between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound it evenly on both sides until it reaches about ¼ to ½ inch thickness. This step ensures that the steak cooks evenly and remains tender.
3. Gathering Your Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for the steak
To make the perfect homemade chicken fried steak recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 pieces of cube steak (about ½ inch thick)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for frying)
Ingredients for the Cream Gravy
The cream gravy is an essential part of chicken fried steak, adding richness and depth to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the gravy:
- ¼ cup pan drippings (leftover from frying)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
4. Preparing the Steak
How to Tenderize Your Steak
If your cube steak hasn’t been tenderized, now is the time to do it. As mentioned earlier, place the steak between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound it evenly with a meat mallet until it reaches the desired thickness. Tenderizing the steak not only makes it easier to chew but also helps it cook more evenly.
Properly Seasoning the Meat
Seasoning is key to infusing the steak with flavor. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Generously season both sides of each steak with this spice mixture. Let the seasoned steaks sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and helps ensure that your steak is flavorful throughout.
5. Creating the Breading
Key Ingredients for the Breading
For the breading, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
The Double Dredging Process
The key to a perfectly crispy chicken fried steak is the double dredging process. This involves coating the steak in flour, then in a wet mixture, and finally in flour again. Here’s how to do it:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour with the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- In another dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well combined.
- Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides.
- Dip the floured steak into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, dredge the steak once more in the flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the steak to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Place the breaded steaks on a wire rack and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the breading adhere better and ensures a crispier crust when frying.
6. Frying the Steak
Selecting the Right Oil for Frying
Choosing the right oil is important for achieving a crispy, golden-brown crust. You’ll want to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or peanut oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures required for frying without breaking down or imparting off-flavors to the steak.
Tips for Achieving a Perfect Golden Crust
- In a large skillet, heat about ¼ to ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that it sizzles when you drop a small amount of flour into it, but not so hot that it smokes. Ideally, the oil temperature should be around 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the breaded steaks into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the steaks in batches if necessary to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
- Cook the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the steaks gently to avoid losing any of the breading.
- Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Making the Cream Gravy
Ingredients for the Gravy
The cream gravy is made using the pan drippings from frying the steak. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ¼ cup pan drippings
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Gravy
- After frying the steaks, carefully drain the excess oil from the skillet, leaving about ¼ cup of drippings in the pan. These drippings are full of flavor and form the base of the gravy.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the flour to the drippings, whisking constantly. Cook the flour and drippings for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture turns a light golden brown. This process, known as making a roux, thickens the gravy and adds depth of flavor.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming. As the gravy heats up, it will thicken.
- Once the gravy reaches your desired consistency, season it with salt and black pepper to taste. For a richer flavor, you can add a little more black pepper than usual.
- Remove the gravy from the heat and serve immediately over the chicken fried steak.
8. Serving Your Chicken Fried Steak
Classic Side Dishes
Chicken fried steak is traditionally served with a variety of comforting side dishes. Here are some classic options to consider:
- Mashed potatoes: The creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with chicken fried steak and is an ideal vehicle for the rich gravy.
- Green beans: Whether sautéed with garlic or slow-cooked with bacon, green beans add a fresh, vibrant element to the meal.
- Corn on the cob: Sweet, tender corn on the cob is a delicious side dish that complements the savory flavors of the steak.
- Buttermilk biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up any extra gravy.
Beverage Pairings
For beverage pairings, consider serving:
- Sweet tea: A classic Southern choice that offers a sweet contrast to the savory steak.
- Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.
- Light beer: A crisp, light beer can cleanse the palate and enhance the meal’s overall flavors.
9. Tips and Tricks for Success
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not tenderizing the steak: If the steak isn’t tenderized, it may turn out tough and chewy. Be sure to pound the steak to the appropriate thickness before breading.
- Skipping the resting step: Allowing the breaded steaks to rest for a few minutes before frying helps the coating adhere better, resulting in a crispier crust.
- Overcrowding the pan: Fry the steaks in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy, soggy steaks.
Making Chicken Fried Steak Ahead of Time
If you’re preparing chicken fried steak for a large gathering, you can bread the steaks in advance and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before frying. This allows you to do the messy work ahead of time, so you can focus on cooking and serving when your guests arrive. Additionally, the gravy can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Chicken Fried Steak in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can make chicken fried steak in an air fryer. While it won’t be exactly the same as the traditional fried version, it’s a healthier alternative that still delivers a crispy crust. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray. Place the breaded steaks in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of your steak.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Chicken Fried Steak?
The best way to reheat chicken fried steak is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the steak on a baking sheet. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the steak is warmed through and the coating is crispy. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the breading soggy.
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
While cube steak is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cuts of beef, such as sirloin or round steak. If you prefer a leaner option, you could even use chicken breast or pork chops. Just be sure to tenderize the meat thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe.
In conclusion, making the perfect homemade chicken fried steak is all about attention to detail, from selecting the right cut of meat to mastering the frying technique. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this classic Southern dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze chicken fried steak? Yes, you can freeze homemade chicken fried steak recipe after frying. Allow the steak to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
2. What can I substitute for buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. Is chicken fried steak gluten-free? Traditional chicken fried steak is not gluten-free due to the flour used in the breading and gravy. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can make chicken fried steak dairy-free by using a plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) in place of buttermilk and milk in the gravy. Use a dairy-free butter substitute for the gravy as well.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the crispy texture.
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