Oh, Chicken Fried Steak—where do I even start? Whenever I think about this dish, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners at Grandma’s house, where the aroma of fried goodness filled the air, and everyone gathered around the table, ready to dig in with hugs and laughter. This dish is truly the epitome of comfort food for me. Just the thought of that crispy, golden-brown steak, slathered in creamy white gravy brings a smile to my face!
What makes Chicken Fried Steak unique is that it’s basically a hug on a plate. It’s with us through moments of joy, like family celebrations, and even during those tough days when you just need a little pick-me-up. It’s simply amazing how food can bring back such warm memories, isn’t it? So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
What’s in Chicken Fried Steak?
Beef Cutlet: The star of the show! I prefer using a tenderized round steak for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can buy it pre-tenderized, or you can pound it yourself if you’re feeling a bit like a chef in a cooking show.
Buttermilk: Believe me, marinating the steak in buttermilk not only infuses flavor but also helps tenderize it, keeping it juicy.
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for coating the steak. I usually go for a good quality brand—King Arthur or Gold Medal are my go-tos.
Seasoning: You can’t forget the seasoning! I love using a mix of salt, pepper, and a little paprika to give it that flavor that has you coming back for more.
Eggs: They help the flour adhere to the steak, creating a glorious crispy crust.
Cooking Oil: I often rely on vegetable oil for frying. It has a high smoke point and gives the perfect crispy texture to our steak!
Milk: This is a must for the gravy. I usually use whole milk for an extra creamy texture.
Is Chicken Fried Steak Good for You?
Now, let’s be real—Chicken Fried Steak isn’t exactly a health food staple, but it does have its perks!
Beef: It’s rich in protein and iron, making it a satisfying option for dinner. Just remember to consider your portion size, as it can be a bit heavy.
Buttermilk: It gives you some probiotics, which are great for gut health (if you’re feeling guilty about that gravy!).
While it’s deliciously comforting, moderation is key. It’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a weekly staple.
Ingredients
– 2 beef cutlets (about 1-1.5 pounds)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to your liking)
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying (enough for a shallow fry)
– 1 cup whole milk (for gravy)
– Additional salt and pepper to taste (for gravy)
*Serves 4*
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak?
1. Start by marinating the beef cutlets in buttermilk. Let them soak for at least an hour, or even overnight if you have time. You won’t regret it!
2. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk it together for a lovely seasoned flour.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
4. Once the cutlets are marinated, take them out and let the excess buttermilk drip off. Dip each cutlet into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip away, and then dredge it into the flour mixture, pressing it in to get that golden crust.
5. In a heavy skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You can test if it’s hot enough by dropping a bit of flour into the oil; it should sizzle!
6. Fry the cutlets one or two at a time, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
7. After you’ve fried your cutlets, pour out excess oil but leave about 2-3 tablespoons in the pan for the gravy.
8. Add about 1/4 cup of the remaining flour from the dredging to the oil and whisk it quickly to form a roux. Cook it for a minute or two until it turns golden brown.
9. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve your crispy Chicken Fried Steak with a generous drizzle of gravy on top. I like to pair it with mashed potatoes and green beans—classic comfort!
Delicious Extras: Serving Suggestions
If you’re looking for a twist, try adding a bit of cayenne pepper to the flour for a spicy kick. Or, serve the Chicken Fried Steak on a bed of greens for a delightful salad! Once you get the hang of it, feel free to experiment. You could also substitute chicken breast if you’re looking for a lighter version.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! There’s something magical about cooking up a dish that has so much heart and history. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this comfort classic! Please let me know how it turns out, and if you have any stories to share about the first time you made it or enjoyed it, I’d love to hear! Happy cooking!
