Chicken fried steak is a beloved comfort food, bringing together the savory satisfaction of fried meat with crispy breading and gravy. Preparing this classic dish in an air fryer not only makes it healthier, but it also keeps the flavors rich and the texture pleasingly crunchy. If you’re in search of a quick, easy, and scrumptious way to enjoy chicken fried steak, you’re in the right place!
Why We Love This Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
This chicken fried steak recipe made in the air fryer is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it makes enjoying this hearty dish much healthier. Using an air fryer allows you to achieve that golden, crispy exterior with far less oil than traditional frying methods. You get all the crunch and flavor without the heavy feeling. Second, the air fryer cooks the steak evenly and efficiently, saving you time and energy in the kitchen. Additionally, the air fryer simplifies the cleanup process, making post-meal tidying up a breeze. Most importantly, this recipe captures the essence of comfort food while making it accessible for anyone to whip up a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
- 1 pound of cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Directions
- Start by preparing your cube steak. Tenderize it more with a meat mallet if desired. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set up your breading stations. In one bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
- Dip each piece of steak first into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off. Next, coat it in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded steaks in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not overlap.
- Spray the tops of the steaks with a little oil for extra crispiness. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until they reach a golden brown color.
- Check that the internal temperature is at least 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. Adjust time as necessary.
- Remove the chicken fried steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
When it comes to serving chicken fried steak, the skies are the limit. Traditionally, you’ll want to drizzle the dish with a generous helping of creamy gravy, which elevates the flavors and adds moisture to the crispy meat. You can also serve it alongside classic southern sides such as mashed potatoes or green beans for a full meal experience. For a lighter option, a simple salad dressed with vinaigrette pairs well, providing a refreshing balance to the rich steak. Don’t forget to add a slice of bread or biscuits to soak up any leftover gravy on your plate. For those who enjoy a twist, consider garnishing the dish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. Creating a colorful plate not only makes the meal more appealing but also enhances the overall dining experience.
Expert Tips for Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
Achieving the best chicken fried steak in your air fryer involves a few expert tips. First, ensure that your steak is pounded evenly. This helps it cook uniformly, improving both texture and tenderness. Second, the seasoning is key. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper, as they enhance the flavors significantly. Consider adding other spices to the flour mixture if you desire a unique twist. Additionally, make sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cooking in batches will ensure each piece gets plenty of hot air circulation, resulting in that perfect crispy crust. Flipping the steak halfway through cooking time allows for even browning. For an extra indulgent touch, top your chicken fried steak with homemade sausage gravy or consider exploring different kinds of sauces that complement the dish nicely. Lastly, let the cooked steak rest for a few minutes post-cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist when you cut into it.
How to Store Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
If you find yourself with leftover chicken fried steak, storing it properly is crucial for maintaining its flavor and texture. Allow the cooked steak to cool down to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the pieces. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy chicken fried steak at a later date without losing too much quality. When reheating, the air fryer can work wonders to bring back that crispy texture. Simply preheat the air fryer and reheat the steak at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations of Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
While classic chicken fried steak is delicious as is, shaking things up with variations can lead to exciting culinary adventures. One tasty option is to mix up the breading. Instead of all-purpose flour, try using crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a different crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider marinating the cube steak in your favorite seasonings and spices before breading for added flavor. You might also want to experiment with different types of meats, such as chicken cutlets or turkey, which can also be coated and cooked in the same way. Topping your chicken fried steak with different sauces can also bring in new flavor profiles; for instance, a spicy ranch dressing can offer a zesty kick. In addition, you can elevate your dish by serving it with unique side dishes such as jalapeño cornbread or roasted vegetables to give a fresh spin to a classic meal.
FAQ about Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
What is chicken fried steak?
Chicken fried steak is a dish that consists of breaded and fried beef steak, usually served with gravy. It’s a comfort food popular in Southern cuisine, but you can easily make it healthier using an air fryer without sacrificing flavor or crunch.
Can I use other types of meat instead of cube steak?
Yes, you can definitely use other meats! Chicken breast or turkey cutlets work well and can be breaded and cooked just like cube steak. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat to ensure it cooks through properly.
What kind of gravy goes well with chicken fried steak?
Classic sausage gravy is a traditional pairing, but you can also use mushroom gravy or even a spicy chipotle sauce for a twist. Feel free to get creative with flavors that you enjoy.
How do I keep the chicken fried steak crispy?
To maintain crispiness, ensure the steak cools completely before storing and reheat it in the air fryer. Avoid microwaving it, as this can make the breading soggy.
Can I make chicken fried steak gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This allows you to enjoy a gluten-free variation without sacrificing taste.
How long does it take to cook chicken fried steak in the air fryer?
Cooking chicken fried steak in the air fryer typically takes around 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Always be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What side dishes pair nicely with chicken fried steak?
Popular sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, green beans, and biscuits. You can also opt for lighter options like salads or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat in the air fryer to restore the crispy texture when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cube steak Tenderized if desired
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs Whisked
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper To taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil For spraying
Instructions
Preparation
- Tenderize the cube steak with a meat mallet if desired and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set up your breading stations: In one bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
Breading
- Dip each piece of steak into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, then coat it in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to help the coating stick.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded steaks in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Spray the tops of the steaks with a little oil for extra crispiness. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until they reach a golden brown color.
- Check that the internal temperature is at least 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer.
Serving
- Remove the chicken fried steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
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