Hey there, food lovers! Are you tired of the same old boring dinner routine? Do you crave a meal that's both comforting and satisfying? Then you've come to the right place! We're about to dive into a world of flavor with three easy chicken fried round steak recipes that will have you saying "I'm in love!" (with your own cooking, of course). Ready to ditch the takeout menus and unleash your inner culinary genius? Keep reading and get ready to impress yourself (and maybe even your picky eaters)!
3 Easy Chicken Fried Round Steak Recipes You'll Love
Craving a comforting meal that's both delicious and easy to make? Chicken fried round steak is the answer! This classic dish, known for its crispy, golden crust and juicy, flavorful inside, is a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly simple to master. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, our three easy recipes will have you whipping up mouthwatering chicken fried round steak in no time.
Why Chicken Fried Round Steak?
Chicken fried round steak is a budget-friendly meal that packs a punch of flavor. Round steak, a cut from the cow's shoulder, is a lean and affordable option, offering a tender texture when cooked properly. The breading process, involving a seasoned flour mixture, creates a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy steak.
Let's Dive into the Recipes:
1. Classic Chicken Fried Round Steak
This recipe captures the essence of the traditional dish, with a simple and flavorful approach that highlights the crispy breading and tender steak.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound round steak, cut 1 inch thick
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Tenderize the Steak: Pound the round steak with a meat mallet until it's about 1/2 inch thick. This helps create a more tender and even texture.
- Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Dredge the Steak: Dip each piece of round steak in the buttermilk, then coat generously with the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each side is thoroughly covered.
- Fry the Steak: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded steak to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the steak from the pan and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there's enough room between each steak to allow for even cooking.
- Test the Oil: Use a small piece of bread to check if the oil is hot enough. It should sizzle and bubble immediately.
- Rest is Key: Allow the steak to rest before serving. This allows the juices to re-distribute within the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender steak.
2. Spicy Chicken Fried Round Steak
This recipe adds a fiery kick to the classic chicken fried round steak by incorporating spicy ingredients like chili powder and cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound round steak, cut 1 inch thick
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your desired spice level)
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Tenderize and Season: Pound the round steak as in the Classic recipe. Season generously with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Bread and Fry: Follow the breading and frying instructions from the Classic recipe.
- Serve with Spicy Sides: Pair the spicy chicken fried steak with fiery sides like jalapeno cornbread or a spicy black bean salsa.
Tips:
- Adjust Spices: Start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper and gradually increase it to your desired level of heat.
- Don't Forget the Sides: Complement the spicy steak with equally flavorful sides that will enhance the overall taste.
3. Chicken Fried Round Steak with Creamy Gravy
This recipe takes classic chicken fried round steak to new heights by adding a rich and creamy gravy that complements the dish perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound round steak, cut 1 inch thick
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak: Follow the tenderizing and breading instructions for the Classic recipe.
- Fry the Steak: Fry the steak as instructed in the Classic recipe.
- Make the Gravy: While the steak is resting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the chicken fried round steak over mashed potatoes or rice, drizzled with the creamy gravy.
Tips:
- Thickening the Gravy: Use a whisk to ensure the gravy is smooth and lump-free.
- Adjust the Milk: Adjust the amount of milk in the gravy according to your desired consistency.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy the creamy gravy fresh and hot, as it will thicken slightly as it cools.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different cut of meat? You can certainly use a different cut of meat, but be sure to choose one that is tender and will withstand the cooking process.
- Can I bake the steak instead of frying it? Yes, you can bake the steak for a healthier option. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the breaded steak on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes.
- How long can I store leftover chicken fried round steak? Store leftover chicken fried round steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion:
Chicken fried round steak is a simple yet delicious dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. With our three easy recipes, you can elevate this classic comfort food and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and sides to create your own unique version of this beloved dish.
Call to Action:
Try out one of our chicken fried round steak recipes today and let us know which one you love the most! Share your culinary creations with us on social media and tag us in your posts.
There you have it – three delicious and easy chicken fried round steak recipes that are sure to become family favorites. Whether you prefer a classic Southern-style batter, a crispy panko crust, or a light and flavorful buttermilk marinade, there’s something here for everyone. Remember that these recipes are just a starting point; feel free to experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and sides to create your own unique variations. For example, you could try adding a touch of cayenne pepper to your batter for a bit of heat, or serve your chicken-fried steak with a creamy mushroom gravy instead of the traditional white gravy. The possibilities are endless!
Chicken-fried round steak is a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying, and it’s perfect for any occasion. It can be served on a weeknight for a quick and easy meal or dressed up for a special occasion. No matter how you choose to serve it, chicken-fried round steak is sure to please. So go ahead and try one of these recipes today! Let me know in the comments below which recipe you tried and what you thought of it. I’d love to hear from you!
Finally, if you’re looking for more delicious and easy recipes, be sure to check out my blog often. I’m always sharing new and exciting dishes that are perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!
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