Classic Chicken Fried Steak: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Classic Chicken Fried Steak is an amazing dish that combines crispy goodness with a savory twist. This Southern comfort food is beloved for its delightful crunch and creamy gravy, making it a favorite on dinner tables across America. Each bite of tender meat enveloped in a seasoned coating brings back memories of family gatherings and hearty meals, and it promises to add warmth to your dining experience.
If you’ve never tasted Classic Chicken Fried Steak, get ready for a flavorful journey that will excite your taste buds. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience packed with comfort and satisfaction. In this guide, you will learn why this recipe is so cherished, how to prepare it perfectly, and tips for serving it with style.
Classic Chicken Fried Steak stands out not only for its mouthwatering flavor but also for its incredible versatility. Serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and watch it disappear from the plate in no time. Let’s dive into what makes Classic Chicken Fried Steak a timeless choice and why it deserves a prominent place in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Chicken Fried Steak is the epitome of comfort food, and here’s why you will adore this recipe:
1. Satisfying Flavor: The combination of tender beef, crispy coating, and rich gravy is hard to resist.
2. Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making this a budget-friendly dish.
3. Comfort Food Appeal: This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty and filling.
4. Customizable: You can easily adjust spices and toppings to fit your taste preferences.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a great dish to serve at family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves happy.
6. Step-by-Step Instructions: Even beginners will find this recipe easy to follow, ensuring great results.
With these enticing elements in mind, it’s no wonder that Classic Chicken Fried Steak is loved by both cooks and diners alike!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Classic Chicken Fried Steak typically takes about 1 hour, which includes preparing the ingredients and cooking. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
These timings can vary slightly depending on your experience level and cooking equipment used. However, this framework provides a solid estimate for even the novice cook!

Ingredients

– 4 pieces of beef round steak (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
– 2 cups milk (for gravy)
– 1/4 cup drippings from cooked steak
– 1/4 cup flour (for gravy)
– Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning the gravy)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Classic Chicken Fried Steak requires some straightforward steps. Here’s how you can achieve mouthwatering results:
1. Prepare Steaks: Tenderize the beef round steaks using a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Prepare Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk until well combined.
4. Dredge Steaks: Dip each tenderized steak into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
5. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom and heat over medium-high heat.
6. Fry Steaks: Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
7. Remove & Drain: Once cooked, remove the steaks and let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
8. Make Gravy: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the drippings and sprinkle the 1/4 cup of flour, stirring constantly to make a roux.
9. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve: Serve the crispy chicken fried steak smothered in the rich gravy.
By following these steps, you will create a delicious meal that can easily rival any restaurant!

How to Serve

To make the most of your Classic Chicken Fried Steak experience, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Presentation: Place the steaks on a warm plate and pour the gravy generously over the top.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
3. Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
4. Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
5. Beverage Pairing: Serve with sweet tea, lemonade, or a cold beer for a true Southern experience.
With these serving tips, your Classic Chicken Fried Steak will not only taste fantastic but also look inviting on the table, ready to impress your family and friends!

Additional Tips

– Use Tender Meat: Choosing flank steak or sirloin for your Classic Chicken Fried Steak will yield a more tender result.
– Perfect Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying to get that perfect golden crust without absorbing too much oil.
– Experiment with Gravy: Try adding a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for an extra kick.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to mix things up! Here are a few variations to try:
1. Spicy Chicken Fried Steak: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy twist.
2. Turkey Version: Substitute beef with turkey cutlets for a lighter option.
3. Veggie Option: Use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian take on this classic dish.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
– Freezing: To freeze cooked Chicken Fried Steak, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

Special Equipment

You may find these tools helpful when making Classic Chicken Fried Steak:
– Meat mallet or tenderizer for tenderizing the steak.
– A large, deep skillet for frying.
– Tongs for turning the cooked steaks.
– Whisk for mixing the gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Classic Chicken Fried Steak?
Common sides include mashed potatoes, collard greens, or biscuits, which pair wonderfully with the rich gravy.
Can I make the gravy without drippings?
Yes, you can use butter in place of drippings for a vegetarian gravy. Simply start with a roux using butter and flour.
How can I ensure the steak stays crispy?
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying, as this can cause the oil temperature to drop and make the crust soggy.
Is it okay to use a meat substitute?
Absolutely! Plant-based alternatives can work well if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.
Can I reheat Chicken Fried Steak?
Yes, the best way to reheat it is in the oven at a low temperature to keep the crust crispy rather than using the microwave.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Fried Steak is not just a dish; it is a culinary tradition that brings comfort and nostalgia to our dining tables. By following the outlined recipe and tips, you can create a delicious meal that pleases both family and friends alike. Whether you’re frying it up for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. With endless variations and simple steps, Classic Chicken Fried Steak deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire!