How to Make the Perfect Chicken Fried Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide

I. Introduction

Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food that has been adored by home cooks and professional chefs alike. However, getting the perfect crispy coating and juicy steak can be a challenge. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect chicken fried steak. We will also discuss the different variations of this timeless recipe, provide tips and tricks from veteran cooks, and offer healthier alternatives for those watching their calorie intake.

II. How to Make the Perfect Chicken Fried Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before getting started, let’s gather the ingredients and equipment you will need. For the steak, you will need cube steak, flour, eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and baking powder. For frying, you will need vegetable oil and a deep skillet.

The first step is to season the cube steak with salt and pepper. Then, in a shallow bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk eggs and milk together. Dip the seasoned steak into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour and place them onto a plate.

Next, heat up the vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Test the oil’s readiness using a small piece of batter; it should sizzle when it hits the oil. Place the steaks in the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Once cooked, transfer them onto a wire rack to drain any excess oil and cool off for a few minutes. Finally, serve hot with your favorite side dishes and a delicious dipping sauce.

And there you have it – the perfect chicken fried steak! To ensure the best result, keep in mind the following tips:

Use cube steak, as it is a tenderized cut of beef that fries quickly and results in a crispy coating.
Let your steak come to room temperature before cooking. Cold meat takes longer to heat up and may result in an unevenly cooked dish.
Do not overcrowd the skillet, as it will lower the temperature of the oil and result in a soggy coating.
Use a wire rack to drain the excess oil off the steak, as it will keep the crust crispy and ensure the steak doesn’t get mushy.

III. Easy Homemade Chicken Fried Steak: A Classic Southern Recipe

Chicken fried steak is a staple dish in Southern cuisine, and the recipe has been passed down from generation to generation. Traditionally, the steak is fried in bacon grease or lard to add flavor and a crispy crust.

If you want to keep it classic, use bacon grease instead of vegetable oil to fry the steak. Additionally, you can serve it with traditional Southern sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, and biscuits to complete the meal. However, feel free to make it your own by adding your favorite seasonings or changing up the sides to suit your taste buds.

IV. The Secret to the Best Chicken Fried Steak: Tips and Tricks from a Veteran Cook

For those looking to elevate their chicken fried steak game, we have gathered some tips and tricks from veteran cooks to help you get the most tender and flavorful steak:

Marinade: Consider marinating the steak in buttermilk for a few hours before coating it. The acidity of the buttermilk will tenderize the meat, making it more succulent.
Seasoning: Add your favorite seasonings to the flour mixture to enhance the flavor. Paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper are popular choices.
Cooking: Instead of frying the steak, try pan-frying it in a cast-iron skillet for a richer flavor. Also, let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure the juices are distributed evenly throughout the meat.
Sauce: Pair your chicken fried steak with a delicious dipping sauce, such as gravy, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.

V. Chicken Fried Steak 101: Everything You Need to Know

Chicken fried steak can be made using different cuts of beef, such as round steak, sirloin, or flank steak. However, cube steak is the preferred choice because it is thin, tender, and cooks fast.

Breading and batter are two common methods used to coat the steak. Breading involves coating the steak with a mixture of dry ingredients such as flour, cornmeal, or breadcrumbs. Batter involves making a wet mixture of flour, eggs, milk, and spices and dipping the steak into it.

When it comes to frying, there are different methods to choose from, such as deep-frying, pan-frying, or oven-baking. Deep-frying produces a crispy coating but requires more oil and can be messy. Pan-frying is less messy and uses less oil, but the coating might not be as crispy. Oven-baking is the healthier option but may result in a softer coating.

VI. How to Make Chicken Fried Steak Like a Restaurant: Mastering the Art of Cooking

Ever wondered how restaurants make their chicken fried steak so delicious? Here are some tips on how to recreate that restaurant-quality dish at home:

Presentation: Take your plating skills to the next level by slicing the steak at an angle and arranging it on the plate alongside your chosen sides. Top it off with a drizzle of gravy or sauce.
Sauce: Instead of just serving a plain dipping sauce, try making a sauce that complements the flavor of the chicken fried steak. Creamy mushroom, jalapeno cream, or chimichurri sauces are popular options.
Side dishes: Elevate your side dishes by incorporating herbs, spices, or other flavors that complement the steak. Garlic mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, or braised collard greens are great options.

VII. A Healthier Take on Chicken Fried Steak: Baked, Not Fried!

For those looking to reduce their calorie intake, try a baked version of chicken fried steak. Although it won’t have the same crispy coating as the classic fried recipe, it still tastes amazing and is much healthier.

To make a baked version, skip the frying step and instead, place the breaded steak onto a greased baking sheet. Spray the steak with cooking spray and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until the steak is cooked through. Serve hot with your favorite sides and dipping sauce.

VIII. Conclusion

Chicken fried steak is a classic dish that can be enjoyed by anyone. Whether you’re a Southern cook or a health-conscious foodie, there’s a version of this recipe that will be perfect for you. We hope this article has provided you with the guidance and inspiration needed to make the perfect chicken fried steak at home. Remember to share your creations with your family and friends so they can taste this classic comfort food too.