3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (Ree Drummond Style)

chicken fried steak ree drummond

3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (Ree Drummond Style) Easy,Chicken,Fried,Steak,Recipes,Drummond,StyleChicken Fried Steak

Hey there, food lovers! Are you ready to dive into a world of crispy, juicy goodness? We're talking about chicken fried steak, that classic comfort food that's sure to satisfy any craving. You know you want a recipe that's easy to follow, right? And who better to learn from than the queen of homestyle cooking, Ree Drummond? Well, get ready to be amazed, because we're about to share 3 easy chicken fried steak recipes inspired by the Pioneer Woman herself!

So, are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Do you dream of crispy, golden-brown perfection? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then you definitely need to keep reading! We've got the perfect solutions for you, right here. Don't worry, we'll even break down each step, making it simple enough for even the most novice cook to master. Trust us, these recipes are so good, you'll be saying "Yeehaw!" with every bite.

We know you're excited to try these recipes out, but hold on just a second! We have some insider tips and tricks coming your way, along with a few fun facts about chicken fried steak. You wouldn't want to miss out on any of that, would you? So, grab a fork, get comfy, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. We promise, it's going to be delicious!

3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (Ree Drummond Style)

Craving a comforting, crispy, and delicious meal that's sure to please everyone at the table? Look no further than chicken fried steak! This classic American dish, often associated with the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, is a winner for any occasion.

In this article, we'll explore three easy chicken fried steak recipes inspired by Ree Drummond's signature style. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, these recipes offer straightforward instructions and mouthwatering results. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to dive into the world of crispy, flavorful chicken fried steak.

Understanding the Basics of Chicken Fried Steak

Before we jump into the recipes, let's understand the basics of this beloved dish. Chicken fried steak, as the name suggests, is primarily a combination of a thin, pounded steak coated in a rich batter and then deep-fried until golden brown and deliciously crispy. The most commonly used cut of meat is a beef cube steak, known for its tender texture and consistent thickness.

There are three key components to the perfect chicken fried steak:

1. The Steak:

• Choosing the Right Cut: Cube steaks are ideal due to their thinness, which allows for faster cooking and even browning. However, you can also use other thin cuts like sirloin or round steak, as long as they are pounded to an even thickness.
• Tenderizing the Steak: Pounding the steak with a meat mallet helps to break down tough fibers and create a more tender final product. You can also marinate the steak before breading for added flavor and tenderness.

2. The Batter:

• The Classic Batter: A classic buttermilk batter is the foundation of most chicken fried steak recipes. This combination of flour, buttermilk, and seasonings creates a light, airy batter that coats the steak evenly and helps to create a crispy exterior.
• Alternative Batters: You can experiment with other batters, such as cornmeal batter for a crunchier texture or a breadcrumb coating for a more rustic flavor.

3. The Frying Process:

• Deep Frying for Ultimate Crispiness: Deep frying is the most common method for achieving the signature crispy texture of chicken fried steak. The high heat allows the batter to set quickly and develop a golden brown crust.
• Other Frying Options: While deep frying is the preferred method, you can also pan-fry chicken fried steak in a large skillet with a sufficient amount of oil.

3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (Ree Drummond Style)

Now, let's dive into the recipes! These three variations, inspired by the Pioneer Woman's cooking style, offer a balance of flavor, simplicity, and ease.

1. Classic Chicken Fried Steak

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak: Pound the cube steak to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Make the Batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dip the Steak: Dip the seasoned steak in the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, dredge the steak in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick coating.
4. Deep Fry: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the breaded steak into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken fried steak from the oil and drain on paper towels. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes, gravy, and a side of green beans.

2. Country-Style Chicken Fried Steak

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak: Pound the cube steak to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional).
2. Make the Batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, buttermilk, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Dip and Bread: Dip the seasoned steak in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick coating.
4. Deep Fry: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 375°F (190°C). Gently lower the breaded steak into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken fried steak from the oil and drain on paper towels. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot with creamy mashed potatoes, country gravy, and a side of coleslaw.

3. Spicy Chicken Fried Steak with Jalapeno Ranch

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

For the Jalapeno Ranch:

• 1 cup sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chopped jalapeno pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak: Pound the cube steak to an even thickness. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Make the Batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, buttermilk, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dip and Bread: Dip the seasoned steak in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick coating.
4. Deep Fry: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 375°F (190°C). Gently lower the breaded steak into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the Jalapeno Ranch: In a small bowl, combine all of the ingredients for the jalapeno ranch.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken fried steak from the oil and drain on paper towels. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving hot with a generous dollop of jalapeno ranch sauce.

Tips for Success

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your chicken fried steak turns out perfectly every time:

• Pounding the Steak: Make sure to evenly pound the steak to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents some parts from being overcooked while others are still raw.
• Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to coat the steak but not so thick that it becomes heavy and gummy.
• Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too cold, the steak will absorb too much oil. If the oil is too hot, the steak will burn before it cooks through.
• Resting Time: Don't skip the resting time after frying. This allows the steam to redistribute and make the steak even more tender.

FAQs

Q: What's the best way to make a crispy chicken fried steak?

A: The key to a super crispy crust is to use a thick batter, ensure the oil temperature is hot, and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Q: Can I make chicken fried steak in the oven?

A: While deep frying is the classic method, you can bake chicken fried steak. However, it may not get as crispy as deep-fried. You can try using a baking sheet with a rack to allow air circulation and help create a crispier crust.

Q: What are some good side dishes for chicken fried steak?

A: Chicken fried steak pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, green beans, coleslaw, or mac and cheese. However, feel free to get creative and explore other options based on your preferences.

Q: What kind of gravy is best for chicken fried steak?

A: Classic white gravy is a popular choice, but a brown gravy, pan gravy, or even a mushroom gravy can also complement the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

Chicken fried steak is a comfort food classic that's sure to please everyone. With these easy recipes, inspired by Ree Drummond's signature style, you can achieve a crispy, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Remember to use quality ingredients, follow the instructions carefully, and don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and side dishes. So grab your apron, get cooking, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade chicken fried steak!

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What are you waiting for? Get your ingredients gathered, and let's get cooking! Try one of these delicious chicken fried steak recipes and share your results with us. Enjoy the deliciousness!

So there you have it, three delicious and easy chicken fried steak recipes inspired by the Queen of the Kitchen herself, Ree Drummond. Whether you're looking for a classic comfort food dinner, a hearty meal for a crowd, or a fun twist on a familiar favorite, these recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They're all achievable, even for beginner cooks. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience the joy of a perfectly crispy, juicy chicken fried steak.

Remember, the key to a great chicken fried steak is all about the breading. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and herbs for a personalized touch. You can add paprika for a touch of spice, garlic powder for a savory kick, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like things a bit hotter. And don't forget about the dipping sauces! A simple gravy, creamy horseradish sauce, or even a tangy barbecue sauce can elevate your chicken fried steak to the next level.

Ultimately, chicken fried steak is a dish that celebrates the simple pleasures of home-cooked food. So go ahead, try these recipes, and see for yourself why it's a family favorite. And if you're feeling adventurous, don't be afraid to put your own unique spin on things. After all, the best recipes are the ones we make our own. Happy cooking!

.Craving crispy, juicy chicken fried steak? 3 easy Ree Drummond-inspired recipes for the perfect comfort food. Get your fork ready!