3 Easy Fast Fixin' Chicken Fried Steak Recipes
Easy,Fast,Fixin,Chicken,Fried,Steak,Recipeschicken fried steak
Hey there, folks! Are you ready to get your grub on? Ever crave a juicy, crispy piece of chicken-fried steak that's so good it sends you straight back to your grandma's kitchen? You’re not alone. In fact, 9 out of 10 Americans can't resist the allure of a perfectly-fried, golden-brown steak!
We're about to dive into a world of flavor with some easy, fast fixin' chicken-fried steak recipes that will have you saying, "Why didn't I make this sooner?" Get ready to impress your taste buds and your friends, because these recipes are sure to be a hit. Don't worry, we'll keep it simple and delicious. No culinary degree required!
So, grab your aprons, gather your ingredients, and let's get cookin'! Keep reading and you'll be enjoying a plateful of happiness in no time!
3 Easy Fast Fixin' Chicken Fried Steak Recipes
Craving a hearty, crispy, and utterly delicious meal? Look no further than chicken fried steak, a classic comfort food that's sure to satisfy. This dish, featuring a juicy, tender steak coated in a golden, crispy breading, is surprisingly easy to make at home. We're sharing three quick and easy recipes, perfect for weeknights or weekend brunches.
Get ready to ditch the takeout and embrace the joy of homemade chicken fried steak.
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak, sometimes called "country fried steak", is a dish made with a breaded and fried steak, usually a cut of beef like round, chuck, or tenderloin. While the name might suggest chicken, the meat is actually thinly pounded beef, often coated in a flavorful batter or seasoned flour mixture, and deep-fried to crispy perfection.
This iconic dish is believed to have originated in the American South and Southwest, gaining popularity in the early 20th century. It's often served with mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, and a side of green beans or corn.
Why You Should Make Chicken Fried Steak at Home
- Flavorful and satisfying: Chicken fried steak is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, with its crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior.
- Easy to customize: You can experiment with different spice blends, breading techniques, and even the type of steak used.
- Cost-effective: Making chicken fried steak at home allows you to control the ingredients and budget.
- Fun to make: The process of breading and frying the steak can be an enjoyable cooking experience.
Recipe 1: Classic Chicken Fried Steak
This recipe sticks to the traditional approach, using a simple flour-based breading and a classic gravy.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef round steak, thinly sliced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Pound the steak: Place the steak between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound it with a mallet until it's about 1/4 inch thick. This helps ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
- Prepare the breading: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip and dredge: Dip the steak in the milk, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing it gently to ensure even coverage.
- Fry the steak: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Make the gravy: While the steak is frying, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Serve: Serve the chicken fried steak with the gravy, mashed potatoes, and your favorite sides.
Recipe 2: Spicy Chicken Fried Steak
For those who love a little heat, this recipe adds a kick with the use of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef chuck steak, thinly sliced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
- Pound the steak: Follow the instructions from Recipe 1 for pounding the steak.
- Prepare the breading: Combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
- Dip and dredge: Dip the steak in the buttermilk, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Fry the steak: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Make the gravy: Follow the instructions for making the gravy in Recipe 1, adding an extra 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the gravy mixture.
- Serve: Serve the spicy chicken fried steak with the gravy, mashed potatoes, and your favorite sides.
Recipe 3: Pan-Fried Chicken Fried Steak
This recipe uses a skillet instead of a deep fryer, making it a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound tenderloin steak, thinly sliced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Pound the steak: Follow the instructions from Recipe 1 for pounding the steak.
- Prepare the breading: Combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish.
- Dip and dredge: Dip the steak in the milk, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Pan-fry the steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the gravy: Follow the instructions for making the gravy in Recipe 1.
- Serve: Serve the pan-fried chicken fried steak with gravy, mashed potatoes, and your favorite sides.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
- Choose the right steak: For a tender and flavorful chicken fried steak, opt for a cut of beef that's naturally tender, like tenderloin, round, or chuck.
- Pound the steak evenly: Pounding the steak helps ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the steak plenty of room in the pan to cook evenly and develop a crispy crust.
- Watch the temperature: Don't overheat the oil, or the steak will burn before it cooks through.
- Let the steak rest: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful steak.
FAQ
Q: What kind of oil is best for frying chicken fried steak?
A: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are good choices for frying chicken fried steak. They have high smoke points and can withstand the high temperatures needed for frying.
Q: Can I bake chicken fried steak instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake chicken fried steak. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with chicken fried steak?
A: Classic sides for chicken fried steak include mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, corn, mac and cheese, and coleslaw.
Q: Can I freeze chicken fried steak?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken fried steak. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
Chicken fried steak is a delightful dish that's sure to impress everyone at your table. With a few basic ingredients and a little time, you can create a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you prefer the classic recipe, a spicy twist, or a pan-fried option, there's a chicken fried steak recipe for every taste. So grab some steak, get your breading ready, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!
Call to Action: What are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and try one of these delicious chicken fried steak recipes today! Don't forget to share your culinary creations with us on social media!
There you have it! Three delicious and easy chicken fried steak recipes to add to your repertoire. Whether you crave a classic, comforting dish or something a little more adventurous, these recipes have something for everyone. Remember, the key to a great chicken fried steak is a crispy, flavorful breading and a tender, juicy steak. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to find your perfect combination. And don't forget to enjoy the process! Cooking should be fun, and there's nothing more satisfying than sharing a homemade meal with loved ones.
Speaking of sharing, we'd love to hear your thoughts on these recipes! Have you tried any of them? What are your favorite tips for making chicken fried steak? Share your experiences and any variations you've come up with in the comments below. We're always looking for inspiration and new ideas to try. And if you're looking for more easy and delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other blog posts. We're always adding new content to help you cook up a storm in the kitchen.
Finally, remember that cooking is an art form, and there are endless possibilities for creativity. So, don't be afraid to experiment, get creative, and have fun in the kitchen! We hope these recipes inspire you to whip up some delicious and satisfying chicken fried steak for yourself and your loved ones. Happy cooking!