A Family Tradition
My Favorite is Crispy Chicken Fried Steak and Growing up in the South, chicken fried steak was a staple at our family dinners. I remember my grandmother standing over the stove, frying up perfectly breaded steaks with a smile on her face. The aroma would fill the kitchen, and we kids would eagerly wait for the golden brown steaks to be served. It’s a dish that brings back warm memories of laughter, love, and the joy of being together. Over the years, I’ve taken this classic recipe and added my own twist, making it even more special.
The Perfect Steak
Choosing the right cut of meat is essential for a great chicken fried steak. I prefer top sirloin for its tenderness and flavor. I carefully slice it into portions and pound each piece to perfection. The key is to get the steak thin enough so it cooks evenly and quickly. This step is a bit of a workout, but it’s worth it. The effort you put into preparing the steak will shine through in the final dish, making each bite tender and juicy.
The Crispy Coating
The breading process is where the magic happens. I set up a breading station with seasoned flour, whisked eggs, and bread crumbs. Each steak gets a thorough coating, ensuring every inch is covered. Frying them in a cast-iron skillet gives them that perfect crispy crust we all love. The sizzling sound of the steaks hitting the hot oil is music to my ears. It’s crucial to not overcrowd the pan, so each steak has space to cook to a golden brown perfection.
A Twist of Lemon
What sets my version apart is the addition of lemon zest and juice. It adds a refreshing twist to the traditional chicken fried steak, brightening up the flavors. While the steaks rest, I whip up a homemade gravy with chicken broth and whole milk. It’s creamy and smooth, the perfect complement to the crispy steaks. When everything comes together on the plate, garnished with lemon wedges, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. This dish is more than just comfort food; it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and a little bit of innovation.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Crispy Chicken Fried Steak
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) before frying to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust. Use a kitchen thermometer to check the oil temperature.
- Pound the steaks to a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and a tender bite.
- Allow the fried steaks to rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels to maintain their crispiness.
- Season each layer of the breading process (flour, eggs, bread crumbs) to build depth of flavor.
- Whisk the gravy continuously while it thickens to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
- If preparing in batches, keep the cooked steaks warm in an oven preheated to 200°F to ensure they remain crispy until serving.
- Adding lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving enhances the flavor with a fresh, zesty touch.
FAQ-Crispy Chicken Fried Steak
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute top sirloin with ribeye or tenderloin for a different texture and flavor profile.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free bread crumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I make the gravy in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy in advance and reheat it over low heat, whisking until smooth before serving.
What side dishes pair well with chicken fried steak?
Garlicky green beans and mashed potatoes are classic sides that complement the crispy steak and rich gravy.
How can I add a bit of spice to the dish?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a subtle kick of heat in the breading