Perfectly Crispy Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

Chicken fried steak is a beloved dish in Southern cuisine, with its tender beef coated in a crispy breadcrumb coating and fried to golden perfection. This classic recipe has been a favorite for generations and can be enjoyed as part of a hearty meal or paired with side dishes like mashed potatoes or green beans. Today’s article will guide you through the steps to make this comforting dish at home.

Chicken fried steak is not only delicious but also relatively easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners. The cooking time for this recipe typically ranges between 30 minutes and an hour depending on your cooking method. You will yield about four servings of this hearty meal. Let’s dive into the details needed to create this comforting dish.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless beef tenderloin steaks (approximately 1 inch thick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 and a half cups breadcrumbs
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish (optional)
• Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Coating Mix. Begin by combining flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika in separate bowls. Each bowl should have a distinct ingredient to avoid mixing them prematurely.

1. In the first bowl, whisk together the flour until smooth. Set aside.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly until they are well combined.
3. Transfer about half of the breadcrumbs into the last bowl and set it aside for the coating process. Reserve the remaining one-half cup of breadcrumbs to sprinkle over the finished chicken fried steaks as a garnish.

Step 2: Coat the Beef. Once all ingredients are prepared, carefully coat each steak first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally roll the coated beef in the reserved breadcrumbs. Ensure that you have an even layer of coating for each piece to achieve a perfect crust.

Step 3: Heat Oil & Fry. In a large skillet or pan, heat about half an inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken fried steaks into the hot oil. Reduce the temperature to low heat as soon as you see the beef frying to prevent overcooking.

1. Let each steak fry for about two minutes on one side, then flip it and let it cook for another minute on the other side until golden brown all around. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) before taking them out of the oil to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

Step 4: Drain & Serve. Once your steaks have reached the desired temperature and color, remove them from the skillet carefully using a slotted spoon. Let the excess oil drain off by setting them on paper towels. Sprinkle paprika over each serving for an extra bit of flavor. Your perfectly crispy chicken fried steaks are now ready to be served.

Accompaniments & Serving Suggestions

Chicken fried steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, creamed corn, or coleslaw. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it over rice or alongside a fresh green salad. Each component complements the richness and flavor profile of this classic dish perfectly.

The versatility of chicken fried steak also extends to various sauces, like gravy or pimiento cheese sauce. Pairing any one of these with your steaks will elevate the meal from simple to extraordinary.

Cooking Tips

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best results, always use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to meat quality and freshness of breadcrumbs. Freshness ensures a more enjoyable eating experience.
• Fry Slowly: Avoid frying on very high heat; medium or medium-low temperature is recommended as higher temperatures can burn the outside before cooking the inside thoroughly.
• Store Properly: Any leftovers should be refrigerated promptly and consumed within two days. Leftover steaks can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until they are heated through.

In conclusion, Chicken Fried Steak is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and occasions. This classic Southern recipe is easy enough even for novice cooks while still providing a delicious meal that will satisfy more experienced chefs as well. With proper preparation, cooking methods, and the right ingredients, you too can enjoy this comfort food in your home kitchen.