Name: Easy Chicken Fried Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds Tenderized Cube Steak ((8 pieces)); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 4 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning; 2.5 teaspoons Baking Powder; 4 cups Whole Milk ((divided)); 4 large Eggs; 3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce; 6 tablespoons Butter; Salt; Pepper; Oil for Frying

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There’s something truly special about the first bite of Easy Chicken Fried Steak. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly winter evening, and I wanted to warm up my family with a comforting, home-cooked meal. As the aroma of frying steak filled the kitchen, I could feel the anticipation building. This dish has a way of turning a simple weeknight into something extraordinary, making everyone feel at home.

As I stood by the stove, flipping the golden-brown steaks, I couldn’t help but think about how this classic Southern dish has been a family favorite for generations. Each crispy bite is a reminder of shared meals and laughter around the dinner table. Anytime I serve Easy Chicken Fried Steak, it sparks joy and nostalgia, reminding us of what home cooking is all about.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and some love, you can transform your kitchen into a Southern diner. So, if you’re looking to impress your loved ones with something hearty and satisfying, give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

The Charm of This Easy Chicken Fried Steak

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Easy Chicken Fried Steak, but here are a few that stand out:

1. Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s nothing more comforting than a plate of hot, crispy fried steak smothered in creamy gravy. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, making it perfect for those cold winter nights.

2. Quick and Simple Preparation

This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and steps. It’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.

3. Customizable to Your Taste

While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences. Add your favorite spices to the flour mixture or try different gravy variations to make it your own.

4. Perfect for Family Gatherings

Easy Chicken Fried Steak is a crowd-pleaser that’s great for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone and encourages sharing and conversation around the table.

5. Delicious Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, they make for a fantastic next-day meal. The steak stays tasty, and the gravy can be easily reheated, making it a great option for lunch or dinner the following day.

6. A Nod to Southern Tradition

This dish pays homage to Southern cuisine, bringing a taste of the South right to your kitchen. Each bite tells a story of tradition and home-cooked love.

Ingredient List for Easy Chicken Fried Steak

When it comes to Easy Chicken Fried Steak, the ingredients are simple yet effective, creating a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. The key players include the tenderized cube steak, which forms the foundation of this recipe, and a few pantry staples that elevate the flavor.

Tenderized Cube Steak: This is the star of the dish. The tenderizing process makes the meat soft and easy to chew, perfect for frying.
All-Purpose Flour: Used for coating the steak, it helps create a crispy exterior that’s irresistible.
Cajun Seasoning: Adds a flavorful kick to the dish, giving it that distinct Southern flair.
Baking Powder: Helps the coating puff up, adding extra crunch.
Whole Milk: Essential for creating a rich gravy that complements the steak beautifully.
Eggs: These bind the flour mixture to the steak, ensuring a perfect coating.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Butter: Used in the gravy, it brings a rich flavor and smooth texture.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
Oil for Frying: Needed to fry the steak to perfection, achieving that golden crust.

Recipe Steps for Easy Chicken Fried Steak

Making Easy Chicken Fried Steak is a rewarding experience that brings comfort and satisfaction. Follow these steps to create your delicious masterpiece.

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees F. This will keep your fried steaks warm while you finish cooking the rest.
Pat the cube steak dry with paper towels. This is an important step because moisture can prevent the coating from getting crispy.
Gently stretch the steaks to make them thinner. If you have a meat tenderizing hammer, use it to pound them to about 1/4 inch thick. This will ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, Cajun seasoning, and baking powder. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
In another bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of milk, eggs, and Worcestershire sauce. This mixture will help the flour adhere to the steaks.
Take each steak and dip it into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour. Make sure to shake off any excess flour. This double coating gives you that perfect crunch.
Let the breaded steaks rest on a cutting board while you heat the oil. This helps the coating stick better.
In a large skillet, pour enough oil to fill it about 1/4 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches between 350-375 degrees F. You can test it by dropping a small bit of the batter in; if it bubbles immediately, it’s ready.
Carefully place half the breaded steaks into the hot oil. Fry them for 1 to 2 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown. Use tongs to flip them, ensuring they cook evenly.
Once fried, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. If needed, add more oil to the skillet and repeat with the remaining steaks.
After frying, carefully pour the oil into a tin can for disposal and wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.
Return the skillet to medium heat and add butter. Once melted, whisk in 1/3 cup of the remaining seasoned flour until bubbling.
Gradually whisk in 2 3/4 cups of milk to create your gravy. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove the gravy from heat and serve it generously over the warm fried steaks. Enjoy every bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Consistency is Key: Ensure the steak is evenly pounded to about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Oil Temperature: Always monitor the temperature of the oil. If it’s too cool, the steak will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, it will burn before cooking through.
Resting Time: Allowing the breaded steaks to rest before frying helps the coating adhere better and results in a crunchier texture.
Gravy Thickness: If your gravy thickens too much, whisk in a little extra milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to enhance your cooking experience, here are some helpful tips and substitutions to keep in mind:

Storage: Leftover Easy Chicken Fried Steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it is in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked steak for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag.
Pairing: This dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes or coleslaw. The creamy gravy pairs well with starchy sides.
Spice Level: If you enjoy heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
Serving Style: Serve the dish with a side of sautéed green beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the fried steak.

What to Serve Alongside Easy Chicken Fried Steak

When it comes to serving Easy Chicken Fried Steak, the options are plentiful. To elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a variety of delicious sides:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, soaking up the rich gravy beautifully.
Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that complements the fried steak.
Green Beans: Sautéed or steamed green beans offer a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
Biscuits: Fluffy homemade biscuits are perfect for soaking up gravy, making for a satisfying combination.
Seasonal Salads: Fresh salads with seasonal vegetables can lighten the meal and add freshness.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or even casual weeknight meals. Its comforting nature makes it suitable for any gathering.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best results.
Seasonal Pairings: During winter, pair with hearty root vegetables; in summer, opt for lighter sides like salads.

FAQ

Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern dish made from tenderized cube steak that is breaded and fried, typically served with creamy gravy. Despite its name, it doesn’t contain chicken. The dish is known for its crispy exterior and tender inside, making it a comfort food favorite among many.

To make gravy for Easy Chicken Fried Steak, after frying the steaks, you use the drippings in the pan. Add butter and whisk in seasoned flour until bubbling, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Season with salt and pepper for flavor. This rich gravy is perfect to pour over the fried steak.

Yes, Easy Chicken Fried Steak can be prepared ahead of time. You can fry the steaks and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven. However, the best texture and flavor come from serving them fresh right after frying.

Some delightful sides to serve with Easy Chicken Fried Steak include creamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and sautéed green beans. These sides complement the richness of the fried steak and provide a wonderful balance to the meal.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Fried Steak is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. With its crispy exterior, tender meat, and rich gravy, it leaves a lasting impression on everyone who tries it. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and create your own family memories around the dinner table. You won’t be disappointed!