Crispy chicken fried steak with creamy white gravy and side dishes

Chicken Fried Steak : How to Make the Best Crispy & Delicious!

by

Chicken Fried Steak Recipe – How to Make the Best Crispy, Southern-Style Steak

If you’re a fan of classic comfort food, you’re likely familiar with the Southern delight known as fried steak. This delicious dish, celebrated for its golden, crispy crust and tender meat, is perfect for hearty dinners and gatherings. For additional tips on achieving the best results, check out this chicken fried steak recipe on Allrecipes for extra inspiration.

What is Chicken Fried Steak?

Despite the name, this dish doesn’t contain any chicken. Instead, it features a tenderized cut of beef that’s breaded and fried in a way similar to fried chicken. The name “chicken fried” comes from the cooking method, which mirrors traditional fried chicken preparation. To explore more versatile comfort foods, try this step-by-step guide to homemade sandwich bread to serve alongside your meal.

A Brief History of Fried Steak

The origins of this dish trace back to the Southern United States, with likely influences from German immigrants who brought the schnitzel tradition. As these cultures blended, so did their cooking techniques, giving rise to what we now call Southern-style steak. Moreover, as it spread across the South, this dish took on various forms, each bringing its own unique twist. Curious about other popular American dishes? Check out what makes sandwich bread different from typical bread loaves.

Ingredients for the Perfect Southern-Style Steak

To prepare the best fried steak, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

  • Cube steak or tenderized round steak
  • All-purpose flour
  • Seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder
  • Buttermilk for added tenderness
  • Cooking oil (vegetable oil works well)
  • Eggs for coating
  • Milk or cream for gravy

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in achieving the right flavor and texture, so it’s important to use them as directed.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Southern Fried Steak

1. Preparing the Meat

  1. Tenderize the Steak: If using round steak, pound it until it reaches about ¼ inch thickness. This step helps create a more tender texture.
  2. Seasoning: First, sprinkle salt, pepper, and other spices on both sides of the meat for a well-rounded flavor.

2. Creating the Coating

  1. Flour Mixture: Next, combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl to give the coating a rich flavor.
  2. Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, mix eggs and buttermilk. This combination ensures the coating sticks well.

3. Bread and Fry the Steak

  1. Dredge in Flour: First, coat the steak in flour for an initial layer.
  2. Dip in Egg Wash: Then, submerge the flour-coated steak in the egg mixture, ensuring it’s completely covered.
  3. Final Flour Coating: For a final touch, dredge it in flour once more for extra crispiness.
  4. Fry: Finally, heat oil in a skillet to 350°F. Carefully fry until golden brown on each side, usually around 3-4 minutes per side.

4. Making the White Gravy

After frying, make creamy white gravy using the pan drippings:

  1. Combine Flour and Drippings: First, whisk flour into the drippings and cook until golden.
  2. Add Milk: Then, stir in milk slowly until thick.
  3. Season: Finally, add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for a balanced flavor.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

There are plenty of ways to personalize this Southern staple, so feel free to try these options:

  • Gluten-Free: Swap out flour with gluten-free alternatives like rice flour.
  • Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour and omit the gravy to keep it low-carb.
  • Different Cuts of Beef: If you prefer a juicier texture, experiment with ribeye or sirloin.

These variations can easily adapt the recipe to suit different dietary needs.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Steak

To complete your meal, serve this fried favorite with classic sides like:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Green beans
  • Homemade biscuits
  • Coleslaw

For more culinary inspiration, discover how to choose the best type of bread for sandwiches.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of meat is used for fried steak?
Usually, cube or round steak is chosen due to its tenderness after pounding.

2. Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes! Using gluten-free flour alternatives like rice or almond flour works well.

3. What’s the difference between fried steak and schnitzel?
While schnitzel is thinner, it’s also typically made with pork or veal instead of beef.

Tips for the Perfect Fried Steak

  1. Double Coat for Crispiness: The second flour coating creates that perfect crispy crust.
  2. Keep the Oil Hot: Always aim for 350°F to keep the crust from getting soggy.
  3. Avoid Overcrowding: Try frying one or two pieces at a time to keep the oil temperature steady.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Why is my crust soggy?
    Often, oil that’s too cool can result in soggy coating. Be sure to keep it hot while frying.
  • How can I prevent the breading from falling off?
    Press the flour coating firmly, and let the breaded steak sit for a few minutes before frying.

check out this chicken fried steak recipe for inspiration.