3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (UK)
Easy,Chicken,Fried,Steak,RecipesChicken Fried Steak
Hey there, food lovers! Are you ready to ditch the takeout and whip up something truly satisfying? We're talking about a classic comfort food that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Ever wondered how to elevate a simple chicken breast into a culinary masterpiece? This article has the answer you've been looking for! We're about to dive into a world of crispy, golden goodness, and with a few easy-to-follow recipes, you'll be a chicken fried steak pro in no time. Ready to get your taste buds tingling? Keep reading for the ultimate guide to making this legendary dish!
3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (UK)
Craving a crispy, juicy, and comforting meal? Look no further than chicken fried steak! This iconic dish, a beloved American classic, is now taking the UK by storm. But you don't need to be a culinary expert to enjoy this delightful treat. In this article, we'll guide you through three easy chicken fried steak recipes, perfect for any home cook.
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak, as the name suggests, is a breaded and fried steak cutlet. It's often served with creamy gravy and a side of mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw. The dish originated in the southern United States, and its popularity has spread across the globe, including the UK.
But why is it called chicken fried steak? While the name is a bit of a misnomer, the dish actually doesn't contain any chicken. The name refers to the breading technique, similar to that used for fried chicken. The steak, typically a thin cut of beef, is battered in a seasoned flour mixture and then fried until golden brown and crispy.
Ready to dive into the world of chicken fried steak? Let's get started with our three easy recipes:
1. Classic Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
This recipe is a timeless favourite, using simple ingredients and techniques. It's a great starting point for beginners and guarantees a delicious result.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef round steak (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 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
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Tenderize the steak: Using a meat mallet, gently pound the steak to an even thickness. This will help ensure even cooking and prevent toughness.
- Prepare the breading: In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip and coat: Dip each steak into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring they're fully coated.
- Fry: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with gravy: Serve your chicken fried steak with a generous helping of creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, and your favourite sides.
2. Southern-Style Chicken Fried Steak
This recipe packs a punch of southern flavour, adding a touch of heat and tang to the classic dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef round steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Tenderize the steak: As in the previous recipe, pound the steak to an even thickness.
- Prepare the breading: Combine flour, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish.
- Dip and coat: Dip each steak into the buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring they're fully coated.
- Fry: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with gravy: Serve with your favourite gravy, mashed potatoes, and a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley.
3. Spicy Chicken Fried Steak
For those who love a bit of heat, this recipe delivers a fiery kick.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef round steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Tenderize the steak: As in the previous recipes, pound the steak to an even thickness.
- Prepare the breading: Combine flour, salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish.
- Dip and coat: Dip each steak into the milk, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring they're fully coated.
- Fry: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with gravy: Serve with your favourite gravy, mashed potatoes, and a side of your choice.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
- Use a meat mallet: Don't skip this step! Pounding the steak will tenderize it and make it easier to cook evenly.
- Choose the right cut: Thinly sliced beef round steak is ideal for chicken fried steak, but other cuts like cube steak or sirloin steak can also be used.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Fry the steaks in batches to ensure they get a golden brown crust and cook evenly.
- Rest before serving: Let the steaks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
How to Make Gravy for Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients:
- 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 onion powder
Instructions:
- Melt butter: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour: Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring until smooth.
- Add milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.
- Season: Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Serve: Serve the gravy hot over the chicken fried steak.
Chicken Fried Steak FAQs
1. Can I use frozen steak for chicken fried steak?
Yes, you can use frozen steak, but it needs to be thawed completely before tenderizing and breading.
2. What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken fried steak?
Mashed potatoes, creamy coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and green beans are all excellent side dish choices.
3. Is chicken fried steak healthy?
While chicken fried steak is a delicious dish, it's not considered a healthy choice due to the high fat content from the frying process. It can be made healthier by using leaner cuts of meat and by choosing healthier sides, such as steamed vegetables.
4. How can I reheat chicken fried steak?
Reheat chicken fried steak in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
5. Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken fried steak ahead of time. Simply bread the steaks and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, fry the steaks as directed.
Conclusion:
Chicken fried steak, a dish that's both comforting and flavourful, is a culinary adventure waiting to be enjoyed. With these easy recipes, you can recreate this iconic dish right in your own kitchen.
Whether you prefer the classic recipe, the southern-style twist, or the spicy kick, there's a chicken fried steak recipe out there for everyone. So gather your ingredients, don your apron, and get ready to experience the crispy, juicy goodness of this beloved dish.
Don't forget to share your chicken fried steak creations with us!
So there you have it, three delicious and easy chicken fried steak recipes to tantalize your taste buds. From classic southern comfort food with gravy, to a spicy kick with jalapenos and a creamy, cheesy twist, these variations offer something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are straightforward and simple to follow, ensuring a satisfying meal for you and your loved ones. Remember, feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and spices to suit your preferences.
And don't forget the sides! Chicken fried steak pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a truly indulgent experience, serve it with a side of crispy fries or onion rings. No matter what you choose, the combination will be a guaranteed hit. If you're looking for a budget-friendly and satisfying meal, chicken fried steak is a fantastic option. It's a protein-packed dish that can be easily adapted to your dietary needs and preferences.
Now that you've discovered these wonderful chicken fried steak recipes, it's time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let your culinary creativity flow. With a little effort and the right ingredients, you'll be savoring a delicious and satisfying chicken fried steak meal in no time. Happy cooking!