The Ultimate Guide to Making Perfect Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed by food lovers for generations. Perfectly breaded and fried to a golden brown, it's a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some top tips from experienced cooks on how to make this beloved dish:

Choosing the Right Steak Cuts

One of the most crucial steps in making chicken fried steak is selecting the right cut of beef. The goal is to find a cheap, thin piece that is easy to cut and tenderize. Seek out any type of steak cut that is affordable and has a thin shape, such as chuck or round steak. Once you have the steak, use a meat mallet or hammer to pound it out into a flat, thin cutlet. This will ensure the steak cooks evenly and becomes extra tender.

Seasoning and Preparing the Meat

After the steak is pounded, season it generously with salt and pepper and dredge it in flour. This double-breading technique will give the steak a crispy and flavorful coating. Let the seasoned and floured steak sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flour adhere to the steak and enhances the flavor.

Frying the Chicken Fried Steak

To fry the steak, use any oil except olive oil (olive oil has a low smoke point and may not produce the best results). Cook the steak at 350°F (175°C) until the meat reaches your preferred level of doneness. Be sure to flip the steak halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning on both sides.

Enhancing the Flavor

If you want to add extra flavor to your chicken fried steak, you can use a technique similar to making pan gravy. After breading the steak, you can brown the cutlets gently in a pan and save the fond and drippings. Then, combine one part water or milk with one part cream of chicken soup and heat until it reaches the desired consistency. Whisk in some freshly cracked black pepper and serve the steak hot with this flavorful sauce. Serve with classic sides like yeast rolls, mashed potatoes, or green beans.

Alternative Ingredients and Variations

For those seeking a lighter take on chicken fried steak, you can consider using non-meat ingredients. For example, you can make chicken fried cauliflower as shown in this recipe. It's a plant-based version that is just as satisfying but with a lower calorie count. Simply steam the cauliflower slightly, dip it in an egg batter and flour mixture, and then deep-fry it until golden brown.

Recollections and Personal Touches

Some cooks add unique twists to their chicken fried steak recipes. For instance, one popular variation is to substitute the beef with top round steak, seasoned and breaded, then topped with chicken gravy. This twist changes the traditional recipe but still delivers that comforting taste.

Here's a personal anecdote from a cook who shared a memory of a visit to a friend's home where they prepared chicken fried steak and cauliflower for a young child. The child was so eager to eat the cauliflower, thinking it was fried chicken. It's a delightful reminder of the delicious and comforting nature of this classic dish.

Making chicken fried steak can be a fun and rewarding experience, whether you're cooking for a crowd or just for yourself. With these tips and techniques, you'll be able to create perfect chicken fried steak every time. Happy cooking!