Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak is a delicious twist on a classic dish, offering a crispy, comforting flavor without all the extra grease. This method not only cuts down on the fat but also provides a quicker cooking time, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners. You’ll achieve a satisfying crunch while keeping the meat tender and juicy, creating a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
This dish captures the essence of classic chicken fried steak with less oil and fuss. Using an air fryer to prepare your chicken fried steak allows for a crispy crust with a delightful crunch that you might expect from deep frying but without the added calories and mess. The air fryer circulates hot air around the meat, cooking it evenly while keeping it moist and flavorful. It’s perfect for those looking to indulge in comfort food while maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Plus, the air fryer cooks quickly, so you can enjoy this hearty meal in no time. Whether you serve it with creamy gravy or a vibrant side salad, this recipe brings a timeless favorite into the modern kitchen.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
- 4 pieces of cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Cooking spray
Directions
- Begin by preparing the breading station. Set up three shallow bowls: one for the flour, one for the buttermilk and eggs, and one for the seasoned breadcrumbs.
- In the first bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In the second bowl, whisk the eggs together with the buttermilk until well combined.
- Place the seasoned breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
- Take a piece of cube steak and coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the floured steak into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any extra to drip off.
- Finally, roll the steak in the seasoned breadcrumbs, making sure it’s fully covered. Repeat for all pieces.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the breaded steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching each other. Lightly spray them with cooking spray for extra crunch.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the steaks and spray the other side with cooking spray. Cook for an additional 7-10 minutes until the steaks are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
Serving Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak can be as delightful as preparing it. Consider placing the crispy steaks on a warm plate and drizzling them with homemade or store-bought gravy for that classic touch. This traditional side enhances the richness of the dish and keeps it moist. Alternatively, you can pair the chicken fried steak with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter option. A vibrant side of mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh herbs, complements the flavorful crust and satisfying meat. For an extra zing, you can offer hot sauce or pickled jalapeños on the side. This not only adds a spicy kick but also creates a wonderful contrast to the savory flavor of the dish. Presenting your meal with a side of flaky biscuits or cornbread elevates the experience, making it a comforting feast for friends and family.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak, consider a few expert tips. First, ensure your meat is pounded to an even thickness. This allows for consistent cooking throughout, preventing any parts from being overcooked or undercooked. Using a meat mallet makes quick work of this step. Second, don’t skip the brining process. Soaking your steak in buttermilk for a couple of hours will tenderize the meat and infuse it with moisture. If time allows, opt for overnight brining for added flavor.
When seasoning your flour, feel free to get creative—experiment with your favorite spices to personalize the taste. For optimal crispiness, make sure to allow enough space between each piece in the air fryer. Crowd them together can lead to uneven cooking, and your steaks won’t achieve that perfect crunch. Lastly, recalibrate the cooking time and temperature according to your air fryer model, as some might have different efficiency levels. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) to ensure your chicken fried steak is safe to eat.
How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
Storing leftover Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak properly extends its quality and flavor for later enjoyment. Allow the cooked steaks to cool completely before storing them. Wrap each steak individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss, ensuring they remain flavorful and crunchy. Place the wrapped steaks in an airtight container or zip-lock bag, marking the date on the outside for easy reference. You can refrigerate the steaks for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage, where they can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the steaks in the air fryer or oven to retain their crispy texture. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Variations of Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
While the basic Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak recipe is already satisfying, there are plenty of delicious variations to explore. For a twist on flavor, you can add different herbs and spices to your flour mix. Consider including oregano, paprika, or Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick. Alternatively, try using crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
If you want to go healthier, consider using chicken breasts or turkey cutlets as a substitute for cube steak. These leaner options still deliver a satisfying meal and can appeal to those looking for lighter fare. You can also experiment with gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version without losing flavor.
Using different sauces can also create exciting flavor profiles. For instance, try topping your chicken fried steak with a mushroom or cream sauce instead of traditional gravy. Or, you could add a tangy lemon butter sauce for a bright twist. For a completely different meal, turn your chicken fried steak into a sandwich, layering it in a bun with your favorite condiments and toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and spicy aioli.
FAQ about Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
You may have some questions about Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak, and we’re here to help. One common question is, “Can you use different meats for this recipe?” Absolutely! While cube steak is traditional, you can easily substitute chicken breasts or even thin cuts of beef. Another question often arises: “How do you keep the chicken fried steak crispy?” Ensuring proper spacing in the air fryer and applying cooking spray helps maintain the crunch.
People often ask about storing and reheating. It’s best to store your leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them in the air fryer to bring back that crispy texture. If you’re wondering about cooking time adjustments, every air fryer is different. Always check the internal temperature and adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure even cooking. Lastly, if you want to know if you can air fry frozen steaks, the answer is yes! Just add additional cooking time and check the internal temperature before serving.
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients
For the Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour For dredging the steak
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs For coating the steak
- 2 large eggs For the egg wash mixed with buttermilk
- 1 cup buttermilk For dipping the steak
- 4 pieces cube steak Main protein for the dish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder For seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
- Cooking spray For added crispiness
Instructions
Preparation
- Set up three shallow bowls for the breading station: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder; one with whisked eggs and buttermilk; and one with seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Take a piece of cube steak and coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the floured steak into the egg and buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Roll the steak in the seasoned breadcrumbs until fully covered. Repeat for all pieces.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Cooking
- Place the breaded steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, lightly spraying with cooking spray.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and spray the other side before cooking for an additional 7-10 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
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