3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (Perfect For Weeknight Dinners)

easy chicken fried steak recipe

3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (Perfect for Weeknight Dinners) Easy,Chicken,Fried,Steak,Recipes,Perfect,Weeknight,Dinnerschicken fried steak

Hey there, food lovers! Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Do you ever crave something hearty and comforting, but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen?

We've got you covered! Get ready to dive into a world of crispy, juicy chicken fried steak with our easy and foolproof recipes.

Think you can tell the difference between a chicken fried steak and a country fried steak? (Hint: It's all in the meat!)

We'll guide you through three delicious variations, from classic to modern, all perfect for any weeknight. Keep reading to discover your new favorite way to make this beloved comfort food!

3 Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipes (Perfect for Weeknight Dinners)

Chicken fried steak, a beloved Southern comfort food, is a crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious meal. While it might seem intimidating, preparing this classic dish is actually easier than you think! This article will take you through three simple and flavorful chicken fried steak recipes perfect for busy weeknights. We'll cover the essential techniques, flavor variations, and tips for achieving restaurant-quality chicken fried steak at home.

Understanding the Basics of Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak is essentially a breaded and fried cutlet of beef, typically a thin-cut piece of tenderized round or cubed steak. The key to a remarkable chicken fried steak lies in the perfect balance of crispiness, tenderness, and flavor.

Here are the fundamental steps involved in creating this iconic dish:

• Tenderizing: Using a meat mallet or a rolling pin, you'll pound the steak to flatten it and ensure even cooking.
• Seasoning: Seasoning the steak generously with salt and pepper is essential for building flavor.
• Dredging: The steak is dredged in flour, then dipped in an egg wash, and finally coated in seasoned breadcrumbs. This creates a crispy and flavorful crust.
• Frying: The breaded steak is generously fried in hot oil, ensuring a golden, crispy exterior.

Recipe #1: Classic Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cubed steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• For Gravy:
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Tenderize: Using a meat mallet, pound the cubed steak to 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Season: In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the steak generously with the mixture.
3. Dredge: Dip the seasoned steak in the beaten eggs mixed with milk, then coat generously in the bread crumbs.
4. Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the Gravy: While the steak rests, melt butter in the same skillet. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve: Drizzle the creamy gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and serve immediately with mashed potatoes, gravy, and your favorite sides.

Tips for a Perfect Classic Chicken Fried Steak:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F).
• Don't overcrowd the skillet when frying, as this will lower the temperature and prevent a crispy crust.
• If using thinner steak, reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

Recipe #2: Spicy Chicken Fried Steak with Chipotle Cream Gravy

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cubed steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• For Gravy:
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder
  • 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from canned chipotles in adobo

Instructions:

1. Tenderize: Using a meat mallet, pound the cubed steak to 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Season: In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Season the steak generously with the mixture.
3. Dredge: Dip the seasoned steak in the beaten eggs mixed with milk, then coat generously in the bread crumbs.
4. Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the Gravy: While the steak rests, melt butter in the same skillet. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until the gravy thickens. Season with salt, pepper, chipotle powder, and adobo sauce.
6. Serve: Drizzle the spicy chipotle cream gravy over the cooked chicken fried steak and serve immediately with mashed potatoes, gravy, and your favorite sides.

Tips for a Spicy Kick:

• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired spice level.
• For a smoky flavor, use a good quality smoked paprika.
• Add a pinch of cumin or coriander powder to enhance the spicy flavor.

Recipe #3: Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Steak

Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cubed steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Tenderize: Using a meat mallet, pound the cubed steak to 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Season: In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season the steak generously with the mixture.
3. Dredge: Dip the seasoned steak in the beaten eggs mixed with milk, then coat generously in the bread crumbs.
4. Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Make the Sauce: While the steak rests, whisk honey and soy sauce in a small bowl.
6. Serve: Drizzle the honey garlic sauce over the cooked chicken fried steak and serve immediately with mashed potatoes, gravy, and your favorite sides.

Tips for a Sweet and Savory Flavor:

• For a more pronounced garlic flavor, use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder.
• Adjust the honey and soy sauce ratio to your desired sweetness and saltiness.
• You can add a touch of sesame oil or ginger to enhance the flavor profile.

Variations and Flavor Combinations

The beauty of chicken fried steak lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt the basic recipe to create unique and delicious variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Italian Chicken Fried Steak: Use Italian seasoning instead of traditional seasonings and serve with marinara sauce.
• Cajun Chicken Fried Steak: Use Cajun spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, and serve with a spicy remoulade sauce.
• Ranch Chicken Fried Steak: Add a tablespoon of ranch seasoning powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Buffalo Chicken Fried Steak: Toss the cooked steak in buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese dressing or ranch.

Tips for Success

• Use thin-cut steak: Choosing a thin-cut steak will ensure even cooking and prevent dryness.
• Tenderize properly: Tenderizing the steak helps it cook faster and prevents it from becoming tough.
• Don't overcrowd the skillet: This will lower the oil temperature and prevent a crispy crust.
• Fry over medium-high heat: This ensures the steak cooks quickly and develops a golden brown crust.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the steak is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

FAQ

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

A: The optimal choice is a thin-cut piece of beef, typically tenderized round or cubed steak.

Q: How do you prevent the chicken fried steak from becoming greasy?

A: To avoid excess grease, pat the breaded steak dry before placing it in the hot oil. Also, ensure you don't overcrowd the skillet, as this will reduce the oil temperature and result in greasy steak.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken fried steak?

A: Mashed potatoes, gravy, cornbread, green beans, and coleslaw are all classic accompaniments to chicken fried steak.

Q: Can you make chicken fried steak ahead?

A: You can prepare the steak up to the point of frying and refrigerate it. However, it's best to fry it fresh for optimal results.

Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover chicken fried steak?

A: Reheat leftover chicken fried steak in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

Chicken fried steak is a comfort food classic for a reason. With its crispy crust, juicy interior, and endless possibilities for flavor variations, it's a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you're looking for a classic take on this Southern staple, a spicy twist, or a sweet and savory alternative, these three easy recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So put on your apron, grab your meat mallet, and get ready to experience the joy of homemade chicken fried steak!

Call to action: Try these recipes tonight and share your experience with us in the comments below! Let us know which recipe you enjoyed the most or any variations you tried.

And there you have it, three easy chicken fried steak recipes to make your weeknight dinners a breeze. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food, a spicy kick, or a lighter take on the dish, there's something here for everyone. Be sure to choose the recipe that tickles your fancy and gather your ingredients. Remember, you can always adjust the seasonings and spices to your liking. For example, if you prefer a milder flavor, simply use less cayenne pepper in the spicy chicken fried steak recipe. Or, if you want to add a little something extra, try using a different type of cheese in the cheesy chicken fried steak recipe. The possibilities are endless! Don’t forget to serve your chicken fried steak with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans. For a healthier option, you can serve it with a salad or roasted vegetables. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, be sure to savor every bite of this delicious and satisfying meal.

Chicken fried steak is a versatile dish, so don't be afraid to get creative with your ingredients and toppings. For instance, you can use different cuts of meat, like pork chops or chicken breasts. And, if you're looking for a quick and easy meal, you can use pre-made chicken fried steak from the grocery store. Just be sure to cook it according to the package directions. Remember, the best way to learn new recipes is to experiment! As you cook more often, you'll develop your own techniques and preferences. Soon enough, you'll be able to create your own signature chicken fried steak recipe. That being said, don't be afraid to ask for advice from friends and family. You might be surprised at the unique tips and tricks they have to share. And, if you're ever unsure about a recipe, feel free to reach out to me! I'm always happy to help.

I hope you enjoyed learning about these three easy chicken fried steak recipes. I encourage you to get in the kitchen and give them a try. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to make this classic comfort food at home. It's a great way to impress your family and friends, or simply enjoy a delicious meal on a busy weeknight. And, if you're ever looking for more recipe ideas, be sure to check back to my blog. I'm always sharing new and exciting recipes for all occasions. Happy cooking!

.Craving comfort food? 3 easy chicken fried steak recipes, perfect for weeknight dinners! Crispy, juicy, and satisfying - find your new favorite tonight.