10 Best Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Delicious

best recipe chicken fried steak

10 Best Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Delicious Best,Chicken,Fried,Steak,Recipes,Crispy,DeliciousChicken Fried Steak

Hey there, food lovers! Ready to dive into the world of crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious chicken fried steak? You know, the kind that makes you wonder if you're actually eating a steak, or if it's been magically transformed into something even better? Well, get ready to have your mind blown because we've got a list of the 10 best chicken fried steak recipes that are guaranteed to leave you craving for more. So buckle up, grab a fork, and prepare to be amazed! Keep reading to discover the secrets behind the perfect chicken fried steak, and find out which recipe will become your new go-to.

10 Best Chicken Fried Steak Recipes: Crispy & Delicious

Craving a hearty, homestyle meal that's packed with flavor? Look no further than chicken fried steak! This classic American dish features a juicy, tender steak coated in a crispy, golden-brown batter and served with creamy gravy. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, there's a chicken fried steak recipe out there for you.

This article will explore the best chicken fried steak recipes, diving into the secrets behind their deliciousness and providing tips for creating a perfect, crispy masterpiece. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these mouthwatering options!

1. Classic Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

This recipe is a timeless favorite, featuring a simple yet flavorful batter and a rich, creamy gravy. The combination of textures and flavors is truly irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds beef cube steak (or tenderized round steak)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons 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

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg. Dip the steak into the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a full coating.
3. Fry the steak: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Pour gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and enjoy with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans.

2. Southern-Style Chicken Fried Steak

This recipe features a slightly thicker batter and a robust gravy, bringing the true essence of Southern comfort food to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cube steak
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• For the gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Marinate the steak: Place the steak in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over it. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
2. Prepare the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Fry the steak: Remove the steak from buttermilk and pat dry. Dip the steak in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Serve: Pour gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and enjoy with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, collard greens, and cornbread.

3. Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak

This recipe offers a healthier alternative to deep frying, delivering crispy and delicious results with less oil.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cube steak
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for air frying)
• For the gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Make the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg. Dip the steak into the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a full coating.
3. Air fry the steak: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the steak in the basket and air fry for 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the gravy: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Pour gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and enjoy with your favorite sides.

4. Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Pepper Gravy

This recipe features a peppery kick in the gravy, adding a spicy twist to this classic dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons 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 cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Make the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg. Dip the steak into the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a full coating.
3. Fry the steak: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
5. Serve: Pour gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and enjoy with your favorite sides.

5. Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Mushroom Gravy

This recipe uses a rich and savory mushroom gravy, adding an earthy depth of flavor to the dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons 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 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg. Dip the steak into the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a full coating.
3. Fry the steak: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add the mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the gravy and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in fresh parsley.
6. Serve: Pour gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and enjoy with your favorite sides.

6. Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy

This recipe features a classic country gravy, made with simple ingredients and a touch of Southern comfort.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons 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 tablespoon bacon drippings (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg. Dip the steak into the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a full coating.
3. Fry the steak: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add bacon drippings (if using) and stir in flour. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Pour gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and enjoy with your favorite sides.

7. Chicken Fried Steak with Jalapeno Gravy

This recipe offers a spicy kick with the addition of jalapeno peppers to the gravy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons 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
  • 1/2 cup chopped jalapeno peppers (adjust to your spice preference)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg. Dip the steak into the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a full coating.
3. Fry the steak: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and add chopped jalapeno peppers.
5. Serve: Pour gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and enjoy with your favorite sides.

8. Chicken Fried Steak with Garlic Herb Gravy

This recipe features a fragrant and flavorful garlic herb gravy, adding a touch of sophistication to this classic dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons 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
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the steak: Pound the steak to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Make the batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another shallow bowl, whisk together milk and egg. Dip the steak into the milk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring a full coating.
3. Fry the steak: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add garlic and herbs: Add minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs to the gravy and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
6. Serve: Pour gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and enjoy with your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Fried Steak

• Tenderize the steak: Use a meat mallet to pound the steak to an even thickness, ensuring it cooks evenly and remains tender. This also helps the batter adhere better.
• Use buttermilk: Marinating the steak in buttermilk for 30 minutes to 2 hours adds flavor and moisture. It also helps the steak absorb the batter more effectively.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Fry the steak in batches to ensure even cooking and browning. Overcrowding the pan will lead to a less crispy result.
• Control the heat: Maintain a medium-high heat when frying the steak. This helps create a crispy crust without burning the steak.
• Rest the steak: Allow the cooked steak to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This helps redistribute the juices and ensure a moister and juicier result.
• Adjust the gravy consistency: Thicken the gravy to your desired consistency. Add more flour if you prefer a thicker gravy.
• Get creative with toppings: Elevate your chicken fried steak by adding toppings like fried onions, crispy bacon bits, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

FAQs

Q: Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the steak and batter the day before. Store the battered steak in the refrigerator until ready to fry.

Q: What are the best sides to serve with chicken fried steak?

A: Chicken fried steak pairs well with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, collard greens, and cornbread.

Q: What kind of steak is best for chicken fried steak?

A: Beef cube steak or tenderized round steak are ideal choices for chicken fried steak.

Q: Can I use a different type of batter for chicken fried steak?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different batters, such as a buttermilk batter, a beer batter, or a cornmeal batter.

Conclusion

Chicken fried steak is a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or a more modern twist, there's a chicken fried steak recipe out there for everyone. By following these tips and exploring different variations, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stovetop, and get ready to enjoy the crispy and delicious flavors of chicken fried steak!

Call to Action: Dive into the world of chicken fried steak and try one of these delicious recipes today! Share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #ChickenFriedSteak. Let's spread the love for this classic American dish!

So there you have it, ten of the best chicken fried steak recipes out there, each offering its own unique twist on this classic dish. Whether you prefer a traditional approach with a buttermilk batter or a more adventurous recipe with a spicy kick, you're sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. Remember, the key to a truly delicious chicken fried steak is a crispy, golden-brown crust and a tender, juicy interior. Don't be afraid to experiment with different batters, seasonings, and pan-frying techniques to find your perfect recipe. And don't forget to serve your chicken fried steak with all the classic sides, like mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans. You won't be disappointed!

Now that you've got a whole arsenal of chicken fried steak recipes at your fingertips, it's time to get cooking! We encourage you to try out these recipes, share them with your loved ones, and maybe even create your own unique variations. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking to expand your culinary repertoire, chicken fried steak is a dish that's sure to impress. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special occasion gathering. So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate fried steak experience!

We hope this list has inspired you to explore the world of chicken fried steak. Remember, there are countless ways to prepare this beloved dish, so don't be afraid to get creative in the kitchen. As you master your chicken fried steak skills, we encourage you to share your culinary creations with us. Tag us on social media and let us know what your favorite recipe is. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious chicken fried steak!

Video How to Make the Best Chicken Fried Steak | Allrecipes