Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that tastes like a warm hug? Then look no further! This recipe brings you the deliciousness of Ree Drummond's, the Pioneer Woman's, famous Chicken Fried Steak, a true classic that's surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and delicious. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its best with this simple yet flavorful dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 large (about 1-inch thick) beef cube steaks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a crispy crust! Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Prepare the Breading:
- Set up a breading station: three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, the beaten eggs. In the third, the bread crumbs.
Bread the Steaks:
- Dredge each cube steak in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Dip the floured steak into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the steak thoroughly in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Fry to Perfection:
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of bread crumbs sizzles immediately.
- Carefully place the breaded steaks in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as needed to maintain even browning.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the steaks from the pan and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, creamy gravy, or a fresh green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Steak:
- Tenderize: If your cube steaks aren't already tenderized, use a meat mallet to pound them gently to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and become more tender.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy steaks instead of crispy ones. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Rest: Allow the cooked steaks to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the breading for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breading for an aromatic flavor.
- Cheese Please: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the breaded steaks before frying for an extra cheesy delight.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
This recipe for Chicken Fried Steak is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply a satisfying meal on a weeknight. Enjoy the delicious taste of this classic dish, made easy and accessible for everyone to enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #PioneerWomanChickenFriedSteak. Happy cooking!