Juicy and Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Steak Recipe
Howdy y’all! If you’re in the mood for some truly hearty, southern-style comfort food, you’re in for a treat. As a chef who specializes in the flavors of the south, I’m thrilled to share with you my recipe for Real Southern Chicken Fried Steaks. Get ready to sink your teeth into a crispy, golden-fried steak, served with a side of creamy gravy that’s downright irresistible.
Now, let me tell you what sets this recipe apart from the rest. See, we don’t mess around when it comes to seasoning our meat right down here in the south. That’s why we use a blend of classic spices like lemon pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder to really make the flavor pop. And we don’t skimp on the gravy either – it’s rich, velvety, and just the thing to top off a perfect fried chicken steak.
I promise you that once you try this recipe out, you’ll be making it for years to come. So roll up your sleeves and put on your apron – it’s time to get cookin’!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear, let me tell you why you’ll fall head over heels for this Real Southern Chicken Fried Steak recipe. First and foremost, it’s a classic southern meal, infused with the goodness of buttermilk, seasoning salt, and black pepper to give you the ultimate chicken-fried steak experience. Trust me; one bite of this crispy fried steak smothered in creamy gravy will take you on a journey to food paradise.
Not only is this recipe flavorful, but it’s also easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, even the most inexperienced cook can whip up a delicious meal that’ll truly impress. Plus, it’s an affordable way to feed a crowd while giving them a taste of true southern hospitality.
What’s more, this recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your mood and preference. You can use sirloin steak or beef cube steaks as a substitute for chicken. And if you prefer your gravy on the spicier side, toss in some hot sauce or cayenne pepper for extra zing.
Lastly, this recipe pairs perfectly with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, corn, green beans or collard greens. Imagine sitting down to enjoy tender and juicy chicken-fried steak alongside some creamy mashed potatoes and drizzled with sausage gravy – beyond scrumptious!
In conclusion, if you crave some ultimate comfort food that is both tasty and filling, then look no further than this Real Southern Chicken Fried Steaks Recipe. Here in the South, we know how to make our food with love and soul – give this recipe a try for an unforgettable dining experience!
Ingredient List
Before we dive deep into the recipe, let’s get our shopping list right first. Real Southern Chicken Fried Steaks Recipe calls for some key ingredients that you won’t want to skip at the store. Here’s what you’ll need to bring home:
Meat
- 2 lbs Cube Steaks (4 pieces)
Wet Ingredients
- 1½ cups Buttermilk
- ½ cup Low-Fat Milk
- 1 Egg
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 2 teaspoons Black Pepper
- 2 teaspoons Seasoning Salt
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Pepper (optional)
Steak Gravy Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Oil (for frying)
- 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- Around 2 cups of chicken broth or beef broth
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Prep the Steaks
- Place 4 (1/2-pound) cube steaks on a cutting board and season them well with kosher salt and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a large shallow dish, whisk together 2 cups of purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of lemon pepper and 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt until combined.
- In another large shallow dish, whisk together 2 beaten eggs with 1 cup of buttermilk or low-fat milk.
Step 3: Batter the Steaks
- Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip them in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, dredge them again in the flour mixture to coat well.
Step 4: Fry the Steaks
- Heat about 1 inch deep of vegetable oil or shortening in a large cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F.
- Fry two steaks at a time for about 3 to 4 minutes per side or until golden brown, crispy and cooked through. Use tongs to transfer steaks to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
- To make gravy, remove all but about 3 tablespoons of oil from the skillet or Dutch oven.
- Over medium heat, gradually add in 1/4 cup of purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until well-cooked (making sure there are no lumps).
- Gradually whisk in about 2 cups of whole milk or low-fat milk, bring it to a boil and then let it simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes or until the gravy has thickened. Season with more salt and black pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve
- To serve, pour the gravy over the fried steaks or serve it alongside them with mashed potatoes and your choice of green beans, corn, or buttered peas.
Now, enjoy this ultimate Southern comfort food- Chicken Fried Steak, and savor every bite!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch things up and add your own twist to this classic southern chicken fried steak recipe? No problem, there are a number of different ingredient substitutions and variations that can take this dish to the next level.
Firstly, if you’re looking for a healthier option, consider replacing the regular flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour. You can also use low-fat buttermilk instead of regular buttermilk or even try using unsweetened almond milk as a dairy-free alternative.
For those who are looking to add more flavor to their dish, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the flour mixture. You can also swap out the lemon pepper seasoning for your own favorite seasoning blend.
Feeling adventurous? Why not try adding some chopped bacon or diced jalapeños into the batter mixture for an extra kick of savory delight. Or, switch out the beef cube steaks with sirloin steaks or beef fillets for a more upscale version of this southern classic.
Lastly, if you want to mix things up and switch to a different style of gravy, try making a sausage gravy instead of country gravy. The possibilities are endless!
Remember that cooking is all about experimentation and finding what works best for your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this classic southern chicken fried steak recipe uniquely yours.
Serving and Pairing
Now, let’s talk about serving and pairing suggestions for this mouth-watering Southern Chicken Fried Steak recipe. This dish is a classic country-fried delicacy that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. You can serve this dish with creamy mashed potatoes or some crispy French fries to balance the fried coating of the steak.
For a touch of Southern charm, I recommend serving this Chicken Fried Steak with some homemade coleslaw or a side salad topped with fresh greens and garden vegetables. The coleslaw helps to cut through the richness of the gravy, while also giving a refreshing crunch to every bite.
Another great option for pairing is macaroni and cheese or baked beans, which add a savory flavor and a warm depth to your meal. The creamy texture and cheesy notes of this side sauce fuse flawlessly with the steak seasoning and the delicious white gravy.
If you’re feeling adventurous or looking for something more unique, try serving your Chicken Fried Steak with some Texas-style chili or some cornbread muffins. These southern staples work well together and create an elevated texture that enhances your taste buds.
You can also experiment with toppings to give your dish a zesty twist. Add some jalapenos, salsa, or even jalapeno cream gravy to add different layers of flavor to your steak.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these Chicken Fried Steaks are sure to delight the most demanding palate. Give them a try alongside one of the brilliant suggested pairs above – your taste buds will thank you!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Darling, one of the things I adore about the Real Southern Chicken Fried Steak recipe is its versatility. With a little prep work, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it without losing any of the crispy goodness.
If you want to make your chicken-fried steaks ahead of time, just follow the recipe method up until the frying step. Instead of frying, allow the steaks to cool on a plate lined with paper towels. Once they are cool, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
To reheat your chicken-fried steak, remove them from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before reheating. You can either use a microwave or an oven to reheat them. I prefer using an oven as it retains the crispiness better. Preheat your oven to 350°F, place your chicken-fried steaks on an oven-safe dish, and bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
Now, storing the gravy is another story altogether! Please don’t store any leftover gravy with the chicken-fried steaks. Gravy made using cornstarch may thicken and turn greasy as it cools down. Instead, store it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 2 days.
If you have extra steak and gravy that won’t be eaten in a couple of days, freeze them separately for future use. To reheat frozen chicken-fried steak and gravy, allow them to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before heating them up again using your preferred method.
Well honey, now that you know how to keep your chicken-fried steaks fresh and crispy, you have no reason not to treat yourself whenever you crave that delicious southern comfort food!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now, let’s talk about the tips and tricks to help you achieve that perfect, crispy chicken fried steak with savory gravy.
1. Don’t Overcrowd Your Pan
When frying your chicken fried steaks, avoid overcrowding the pan as it can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy crust. Cook in batches, if necessary.
2. Keep the Heat High
For a crispy crust, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the steaks. The ideal temperature is around 350°F-375°F.
3. Drain Excess Oil
Once the steaks are done cooking, place them on a paper towel to drain off any excess oil. This will prevent them from becoming overly greasy.
4. Wait Before Cutting
Resist the temptation to cut into your chicken fried steak right away. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before digging in – this allows time for the juices to redistribute and settle.
5. Make Extra Gravy
Gravy makes everything better! Be generous and make extra gravy to drizzle over your mashed potatoes or biscuits.
6. Use Quality Ingredients
To achieve maximum flavor, use quality ingredients like fresh butter, whole milk, and beef broth in your gravy. And don’t forget to add some lemon pepper seasoning!
7. Try Different Types of Steaks
While cube steak is traditional for chicken fried steak, you can experiment with other cuts like sirloin or even beef steak for a different twist on this classic dish.
8. Elevate Your Serving Presentation
Presentation adds another layer of enjoyment to your meal. Serve your chicken fried steaks with mashed potatoes, green beans, or collard greens and garnish with parsley for a beautiful pop of color.
Follow these tips and soon you’ll be serving up a plate of mouthwatering chicken fried steaks that would make any southerner proud!
FAQ
As with any recipe, there may be questions that come up along the way. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help make sure your chicken fried steak turns out perfectly. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your own favorite variations on this classic southern dish. Now, let’s get down to frying some steak!
How do you get breading to stick to chicken-fried steak?
One of the best ways to make sure that the coating on chicken fried steak sticks properly is by giving it some rest time. After you have breaded the steaks, allow them to rest for around 15-20 minutes. During this time, the coating will settle onto the meat, helping it to stick better when it’s time to cook. When frying, it’s also essential to use very hot oil, with temperatures of 350 degrees or above being ideal. This ensures that the coating will cook properly and remain attached to the steak.
What is the difference between country fried chicken and fried steak?
While there are some subtle differences between country-fried steak and chicken-fried steak, the gravy is often what sets the two apart. Normally, country-fried steak will have a comforting brown gravy while chicken-fried steak is covered in a white gravy with a peppery kick. It’s worth noting that some establishments will serve both with the same gravy, so it’s always best to ask before ordering.
What’s the best meat for chicken-fried steak?
To create a delectable and tender chicken-fried steak, I recommend using thinly pounded sirloin tips. In order to achieve an extra thin and delicate crust, I suggest coating the steak with cornstarch. This will help to balance the flavor of the steak, without overpowering the thinly pounded meat.
Why does my breading fall off my chicken-fried steak?
Achieving a perfect chicken fried steak requires a little knowledge about how to prepare the meat properly. When cooking, excess moisture from the meat can cause the breading to slip off, making for an unsatisfactory meal. One simple trick to avoid this is to ensure that your meat is dry before beginning the cooking process. This can be achieved by patting the meat dry with paper towels beforehand.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Real Southern Chicken Fried Steaks Recipe is sure to satisfy your craving for ultimate comfort food. With its perfect blend of lemon pepper, seasoning salt, and flour coating the succulent cube steaks, you won’t be able to resist. And let’s not forget the creamy gravy that adds tremendous flavor to the dish.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion or just when you’re craving a hearty, southern-style meal. So go ahead and give it a try! You won’t regret it. And if you’re feeling adventurous, switch up the recipe with variations such as adding corn starch to make it extra crispy or substituting the beef cube steaks with sirloin steak.
Trust me; after one bite, it will become a staple dish in your home. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and head to the kitchen for this delicious chicken fried steak dinner. Don’t forget to pair it with mashed potatoes and corn on the cob for the ultimate southern dining experience.
And if you need additional inspiration, tune into Food Network’s cooking shows or visit Cracker Barrel Chicken and Steak restaurants for more steak recipes with white gravy. The possibilities are endless! But without a doubt, this recipe is a standout in terms of its delicious taste and doable steps.
Thank you for taking this culinary journey with me today. I’m sure that after trying out my tips and recommendations, you’ll have the best chicken fried steak Southern-style has to offer. Enjoy!
Real Southern Chicken Fried Steaks Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 -6 cube steaks
- 3 cups flour, it's better to have too much than too little (enough to fill one bowl about 1/2 way)
- 1 egg
- 2 cups buttermilk, you can use regular or 2 cups low-fat milk, too I use all kinds
- garlic salt
- seasoning salt
- pepper
- lemon pepper
- oil
Instructions
- Fill frying pan about 1/2 way with oil, turn heat on med-med/high.
- In one bowl beat egg, milk, and some seasonings together with a fork.
- Put flour in another bowl and season to taste.
- Put 2 pieces of meat in milk mixture, let soak while oil gets hot(you know it's hot when a sprinkle of flour sizzles in the pan) then roll in flour batter and put in oil.
- Fry 10 minute one side then flip (or when golden brown) and fry 10 min other side. fry couple minute more each side just for good measure.
- While 2 pieces are frying put 2 more pieces in milk and let soak till other pieces are done. Don't put it in flour till ready to fry, will end up soggy!
- Keep repeating till all the meat's gone! Enjoy!