Chicken fried steak is a tasty Southern dish that'll make your mouth water! It's not chicken at all, but beef that's cooked like fried chicken. You'll love the crispy, golden-brown coating and the tender meat inside. This comfort food has German roots but became popular in Texas. To make it, you'll pound beef cutlets, coat them in flour and eggs, then fry them until crispy. Don't forget the creamy gravy on top! Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic meal. There's so much more to discover about this delicious dish!
Key Takeaways
- Chicken fried steak is a Southern dish of tenderized beef cutlets, breaded and fried until crispy, served with creamy white gravy.
- The dish originated from German immigrants adapting wiener schnitzel or cowboy chuck wagons tenderizing tough beef cuts.
- Main ingredients include beef cube steaks, flour, eggs, milk, and seasonings, with vegetable oil for frying.
- The cooking process involves tenderizing, dredging in seasoned flour, dipping in egg wash, and frying until golden brown.
- Chicken fried steak is typically served with mashed potatoes and green beans, making it a hearty comfort food meal.
History
Two competing theories surround the origins of chicken fried steak. One story takes you to the German immigrants who settled in Texas during the 1800s. They brought with them a dish called "wiener schnitzel," which is breaded and fried veal. As veal wasn't easy to find in Texas, they adapted the recipe using beef instead.
The other theory points to the chuck wagons of the American West. Cowboys needed hearty meals, and cooks would tenderize tough cuts of beef by pounding them flat and frying them up.
No matter which story you believe, chicken fried steak became a beloved Southern comfort food. It's called "chicken fried" because the cooking method is similar to how you'd fry chicken.
The dish spread across the South and Midwest, becoming a staple in diners and home kitchens alike. Today, you'll find it on menus all over the country, often served with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, and green beans. It's a filling meal that's sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your heart.
Recipe
Chicken fried steak is a beloved Southern comfort food that combines the crispy, golden exterior of fried chicken with the hearty satisfaction of beef steak. This classic dish typically features tenderized beef cutlets that are breaded, fried until crispy, and served with a creamy white gravy. It's a staple in many diners and home kitchens across the American South and Midwest.
While the name might be confusing, there's no actual chicken in this dish. The term "chicken fried" refers to the cooking method, which is similar to how fried chicken is prepared. The result is a satisfying meal that's crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in rich, peppery gravy. It's often served with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete, comforting meal. For a true taste of the South, consider adding a side of fried okra to your meal. The crispy, flavorful vegetable adds a nice crunch to each bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own fried okra recipe at home to complete the classic Southern meal experience.
Ingredients:
- 4 beef cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 cups milk (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare chicken fried steak, start by setting up a breading station with seasoned flour in one dish and beaten eggs mixed with milk in another. Dredge each steak in flour, then egg mixture, then back in flour. Heat oil in a large skillet and fry the steaks until golden brown on both sides.
For the gravy, pour off most of the oil, leaving the browned bits in the pan. Add flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in milk until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper, then serve the gravy over the crispy steaks.
For best results, use a meat mallet to tenderize the steaks before breading. This helps break down tough fibers and ensures a more tender result. Be sure to let the oil come back up to temperature between batches of frying to maintain that crispy exterior.
When making the gravy, scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the pan for maximum taste. Lastly, for an extra crispy coating, let the breaded steaks rest in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before frying.
Cooking Steps
Get ready to make a delicious chicken fried steak!
You'll start by tenderizing the cube steak, then dredge it in seasoned flour.
Next, you'll dip the steak in an egg wash and coat it in flour again before frying it in hot oil.
These steps will help you create a crispy, golden-brown crust that's perfect for this classic comfort food.
Step 1. Tenderize the Cube Steak
Tenderizing is a crucial step in preparing cube steak for chicken fried steak. It's time to get your hands a little dirty and have some fun!
Start by laying your cube steak on a clean cutting board. You'll need a meat mallet or, if you don't have one, a rolling pin will do the trick.
Now, here's where the action begins. Cover the steak with a piece of plastic wrap or wax paper. This keeps things tidy and prevents the meat from sticking to your mallet.
Hold the mallet firmly and begin gently pounding the steak. Work from the center outwards, using even strokes. You're aiming to flatten the meat to about 1/4 inch thick.
As you pound, you'll notice the steak getting thinner and wider. That's perfect! You're breaking down the tough fibers, making the meat more tender.
Keep at it until the entire steak is evenly flattened. Remember, don't pound too hard – you want to tenderize, not pulverize.
Once you're done, your steak will be ready for the next exciting step in creating your delicious chicken fried steak!
Step 2. Dredge Steak in Seasoned Flour
The dredging process is where your chicken fried steak begins to take shape. You'll need to create a seasoned flour mixture that'll give your steak its crispy, flavorful coating. In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Mix these ingredients well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Now, it's time to coat your tenderized cube steak. Take each piece and place it in the seasoned flour. Press the steak gently into the mixture, making sure it's evenly coated on both sides. Shake off any excess flour, as too much can lead to a thick, gummy coating.
For an extra crispy crust, you can double-dredge your steak. After the first coating, dip the steak in beaten eggs or buttermilk, then back into the seasoned flour.
This creates a thicker, crunchier exterior that'll stay crisp even after you've added gravy.
Step 3. Dip Steak in Egg Wash
After dredging, you'll need to prepare an egg wash for your chicken fried steak. In a shallow bowl, crack two or three eggs and add a splash of milk. Whisk them together until they're well combined. This mixture will help the flour coating stick to the steak and create that perfect crispy crust you're looking for.
Now, it's time to dip your floured steak into the egg wash. Using one hand, carefully lower the steak into the bowl. Make sure it's completely covered with the egg mixture. Let any excess drip off, but don't shake it too much. You want a nice, even coating.
If you're cooking multiple steaks, you might need to add more eggs to your wash as you go. Keep an eye on the consistency and add more if needed.
Remember, the egg wash is crucial for that golden-brown finish we all love. It's the secret to getting that flour to stick and form a delicious, crispy layer.
Once your steak is coated, you're ready for the next exciting step in creating your mouth-watering chicken fried steak!
Step 4. Coat Steak in Flour Again
Crunch time! It's time to give your steak its final, crispy coating. After dipping the steak in the egg wash, you'll coat it in flour one more time. This double-dredging process is what makes chicken fried steak so deliciously crunchy.
Grab your plate of seasoned flour and get ready. Take the egg-coated steak and gently place it on the flour. Use your hands to pat flour all over the steak, making sure every bit is covered. Don't forget the edges!
Shake off any excess flour, but make sure there's a good layer sticking to the meat. This second coating is crucial. It's what gives the steak its signature crispy texture when fried.
The flour will combine with the egg wash to create a thick, golden-brown crust that's packed with flavor. As you coat each piece, set it aside on a clean plate. You're almost ready to fry! The excitement is building as you prepare these steaks for their sizzling transformation in the pan.
Step 5. Fry in Hot Oil
Now comes the sizzling finale: frying your coated steaks to golden perfection.
Heat about half an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You'll know it's ready when a drop of water sizzles on contact.
Carefully place your coated steaks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Listen for that satisfying sizzle as the steaks hit the oil!
Let the steaks cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You're looking for a beautiful golden-brown color.
As they fry, you'll see the coating start to crisp up. It's okay if some of the breading comes off – that's normal! Use tongs to flip the steaks gently.
Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Once they're done, remove them from the oil and let them rest on a wire rack or paper towels.
This helps drain excess oil and keeps the coating crispy. Your chicken fried steaks are now ready to be served with your favorite sides!
Final Thoughts
The journey through chicken fried steak's rich history and preparation has been a mouthwatering adventure.
You've learned about its Texas roots and how to make this delicious dish step by step. From choosing the right cut of meat to creating the perfect crispy coating, you're now equipped to make a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't worry if your first attempt isn't flawless. With each try, you'll get better at achieving that golden-brown crust and tender, juicy meat.
Experiment with different seasonings in your flour mixture to find your favorite flavor combination.
Chicken fried steak is more than just food; it's a comfort dish that brings people together.
Serve it with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, and your favorite veggies for a complete meal that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this classic dish is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicken Fried Steak Actually Made With Chicken?
No, chicken fried steak isn't made with chicken. You're actually eating beef that's been pounded thin, breaded, and fried like chicken. It's called "chicken fried" because of the cooking method, not the meat used.
What's the Difference Between Country-Fried Steak and Chicken-Fried Steak?
You'll find that country-fried steak and chicken-fried steak are quite similar. The main difference is in the gravy: country-fried uses a brown gravy, while chicken-fried typically comes with a white, peppered gravy. They're both delicious, though!
Can Chicken Fried Steak Be Made With a Different Type of Meat?
You can definitely make "chicken fried steak" with other meats. Try using pork, turkey, or even chicken breast. Just pound it thin, bread it, and fry it up. It'll still be delicious and crispy!
How Many Calories Are Typically in a Serving of Chicken Fried Steak?
You'll typically find that a serving of this dish contains around 600-800 calories. It's quite high due to the breading and frying process. If you're watching your calorie intake, you might want to consider a smaller portion.
What Are Some Popular Side Dishes to Serve With Chicken Fried Steak?
You'll often find mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans accompanying this dish. Don't forget about creamed corn, coleslaw, or biscuits. For a lighter option, you could serve a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Chloe is the go-to for classic Southern comfort food. From buttery biscuits to crispy fried chicken, Chloe knows how to whip up soul-warming meals that make you feel at home. She also loves hosting outdoor barbecues and picnics, bringing a touch of Southern hospitality to every dish.
