Chicken fried steak is a beloved Southern comfort dish that features a crispy, golden exterior and tender, flavorful beef. Originating in the late 1800s, this iconic meal blends European and Native American culinary influences, creating a cherished symbol of Southern hospitality. To make it, you'll start by tenderizing the beef in buttermilk, then dredge it in a seasoned flour mixture before frying until perfectly crisp. Serve it up with a rich, creamy gravy, and you've got a hearty, satisfying dish that's sure to delight. If you're curious to learn more about the history and preparation of this Southern classic, keep reading.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken fried steak is a classic Southern comfort food featuring a crispy breading and tender beef.
- The dish has its origins in the American South, influenced by European and Native American cooking traditions.
- The key to a successful chicken fried steak is mastering the breading and frying technique to achieve the perfect texture.
- Serving chicken fried steak with creamy gravy and comfort food sides, such as mashed potatoes, enhances the overall dining experience.
- Chicken fried steak remains a cherished symbol of Southern cuisine, representing hospitality and nostalgia for generations.
History
The origins of chicken fried steak can be traced back to the American South, where it emerged as a beloved regional dish in the late 19th century.
The dish's history is closely tied to the traditions and culinary influences of the area, blending European and Native American cooking techniques. Settlers from Germany and Austria brought their love of breaded and fried meats, which they combined with the readily available beef found in the South.
Meanwhile, Native American tribes, such as the Choctaw and Creek, had been frying meat in animal fat for centuries. This fusion of culinary traditions gave birth to the iconic chicken fried steak – a tender cut of beef, breaded and fried to crispy perfection.
Over time, the dish became a staple on Southern menus, served with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, and other comfort food classics.
Today, chicken fried steak remains a beloved symbol of Southern cuisine, cherished for its satisfying, homestyle flavors and the memories it evokes of family gatherings and good old-fashioned hospitality.
Recipe
Chicken fried steak is a classic Southern comfort food dish that combines tender beef, a crispy breading, and a rich, creamy gravy. This dish is a beloved staple in many households and can be enjoyed for a hearty meal any time of the day.
The key to a delicious chicken fried steak is in the preparation. By tenderizing the beef, creating a flavorful breading, and mastering the gravy, you can elevate this dish to new heights of culinary delight.
- 1 lb tenderized beef cube steak, cut into 4 pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
To cook the chicken fried steak, first, season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, and paprika. Dip the beef cubes in the beaten eggs, then coat them thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
Heat 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded beef cubes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried steaks to a paper towel-lined plate.
For the gravy, pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the oil from the skillet. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of the seasoned flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes.
Season the gravy with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chicken fried steak hot, smothered in the creamy gravy.
Cooking Steps
Let's get started on cooking up some delicious chicken fried steak!
First, you'll want to soak the meat in a tangy buttermilk mixture.
Then, dredge the meat in a savory seasoned flour mixture.
Next, carefully fry the coated meat until it's golden brown.
Once it's cooked, let the meat rest a bit before serving.
And don't forget to make a creamy, flavorful gravy to drizzle over the top!
Step 1. Soak Meat in Buttermilk Mixture
After seasoning the meat, it's time to soak the chicken-fried steak in a buttermilk mixture. This essential step tenderizes the steak and helps the crispy coating stick better.
Grab a large, shallow dish and pour in some tangy buttermilk. Gently lower the seasoned steak into the mixture, making sure it's fully submerged. Cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer you let it soak, the more flavorful and tender the steak will become.
While the steak soaks, prepare the breading station. You'll need some all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and other seasonings of your choice.
When the steak is ready, remove it from the buttermilk one piece at a time, letting any excess drip off. Dredge it through the seasoned flour, coating all sides evenly.
Now your steak is ready for the next step – frying to golden, crispy perfection!
Step 2. Dredge in Seasoned Flour Mixture
With the steak now soaked in the tangy buttermilk, it's time to prepare the breading.
First, grab a shallow bowl and mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This seasoned flour mixture will give your chicken fried steak that irresistible crunch.
Next, take the steak and dredge it through the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Gently shake off any excess flour – you don't want a thick, heavy crust. The key is to have a light, crispy coating that will sizzle when it hits the hot oil.
Once the steak is fully coated, you're ready to fry it up to golden-brown perfection. Get your oil nice and hot, then carefully add the coated steak.
Let it cook until the crust is crispy and the meat is tender. Flip it over and repeat on the other side. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a homemade chicken fried steak that's sure to satisfy.
Step 3. Fry the Coated Meat
Once the steak is fully coated, you're ready to fry it up to golden-brown perfection.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to come about 1/4 inch up the sides. You want the oil to be hot, but not smoking.
Carefully lower the coated steak into the oil and let it sizzle. Fry the steak for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until it's a beautiful golden-brown color. Be gentle when flipping the steak to maintain the crispy coating.
When the steak is done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. The outside should be wonderfully crispy, while the inside remains tender and juicy.
Now you can serve your homemade chicken fried steak piping hot, with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes and gravy. Get ready for the ultimate Southern comfort food experience!
Step 4. Let Meat Rest Before Serving
Let the fried steak rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
While it's tempting to dig in right away, letting the steak rest ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful. During this time, the steak will continue to cook slightly, reaching its optimal doneness.
The crispy breading will also have a chance to set, creating that satisfying crunch you crave. Resist the urge to slice into the steak immediately – you'll be rewarded with a perfectly cooked, juicy interior.
Once the resting time is up, you're ready to serve your delicious chicken fried steak. Pair it with your favorite sides, like creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy the comforting flavors and textures of this Southern classic!
Step 5. Make Creamy Gravy
Making the creamy gravy is the next important step. To start, you'll want to scoop up any browned bits left in the pan from cooking the steak. These bits are packed with flavor, so you don't want to miss them!
Next, whisk in some all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for a minute or two, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color. Slowly pour in some milk, continuing to whisk as you go. This will help the gravy thicken up nicely.
Season the gravy with a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. The creamy gravy should coat the back of a spoon.
Serve the gravy warm over the crispy chicken fried steak. The savory, velvety gravy is the perfect complement to the crunchy exterior and tender interior of the steak. Get ready for an incredibly satisfying meal!
Final Thoughts
Though chicken fried steak may seem like a simple dish, it requires careful attention to detail to achieve the perfect crispy exterior and tender interior. When done right, the combination of a crispy, golden crust and the juicy, well-seasoned meat is simply irresistible.
The creamy, peppery gravy ties the whole dish together, making it a true Southern comfort food classic. As you've learned, the keys to success are using high-quality ingredients, properly breading the meat, and mastering the frying technique.
With a little practice, you'll be whipping up chicken fried steak that rivals the best diners and home cooks in the South. Serve it up hot, with a side of mashed potatoes or biscuits, and enjoy the comforting flavors that have made this dish a beloved staple for generations.
Whether you're a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, chicken fried steak is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicken Fried Steak the Same as Country-Fried Steak?
Yes, chicken-fried steak and country-fried steak are the same dish. They both refer to a tenderized beef steak that's coated in a seasoned batter, then fried until crispy and golden brown.
How Do I Keep the Breading From Falling Off?
To keep the breading from falling off your chicken fried steak, you should first dredge the meat in flour, then dip it in beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs or panko. This triple-dip method helps the breading adhere better.
Can I Make Chicken Fried Steak Ahead of Time?
You can make chicken fried steak ahead of time, but it's best to reheat it in the oven or air fryer to keep the breading crispy. Frying it fresh yields the optimal texture and flavor.
What Sides Pair Best With Chicken Fried Steak?
When pairing sides with chicken fried steak, you'll want to choose complementary flavors like mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, buttered corn, or a fresh green salad. These classic Southern sides will balance the richness of the steak perfectly.
Is Chicken Fried Steak Gluten-Free or Low-Carb?
Unfortunately, chicken fried steak isn't typically gluten-free or low-carb. The breading and frying process usually includes wheat flour, which is high in carbs. You'd need to find a recipe that uses gluten-free alternatives to enjoy this dish while following a restricted diet.
Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.
