Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With its perfectly crispy coating, tender meat, and rich gravy, this dish is a family favorite. Making it in an air fryer adds a healthier twist by reducing the amount of oil needed, while still delivering that beloved crunch. This guide will take you through the simple steps of preparing chicken fried steak in an air fryer, offering tips and variations to make it your own.
Why We Love This Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
This recipe for chicken fried steak in the air fryer elevates the traditional dish by making it lighter and easier to prepare. The air fryer delivers a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying, maintaining the flavors you adore while helping you keep an eye on your health. The cooking method enhances the rich taste of the meat and the crispy breading while preserving moisture inside the steak. Plus, the quick cooking time allows you to serve up this delicious meal on busy nights. Whether you enjoy it for dinner, a comforting lunch, or as part of a hearty breakfast, chicken fried steak made in the air fryer fits any meal occasion.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
- 2 pieces of tenderized beef steak (round or cube steak)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Cooking spray or an oil mister
- Salt to taste
Directions
Start by preparing your workspace. Lay out three shallow bowls for breading the steak. In the first bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Place the breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
Take each piece of tenderized beef steak and coat it lightly in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess flour.
Dip the floured steak into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then move it to the bowl with breadcrumbs. Ensure the steak is fully coated with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. When ready, spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the breaded steak pieces in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
Cook the steaks for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken fried steak and let it rest while you prepare the gravy, if desired, using the pan drippings or a separate recipe.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
Serving chicken fried steak is a delightful experience due to its versatility. You can simply plate the steaks with a side of creamy gravy drizzled over the top for a classic presentation. Pair your chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to create a fulfilling meal. A simple green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak. If you’re looking for a comforting breakfast, serve it with scrambled eggs and toast. For a family gathering, consider placing the steaks on a large platter so everyone can help themselves. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Don’t forget to provide different types of sauces on the side, such as hot sauce or a tangy dipping sauce, to cater to varying tastes. You can enhance the meal by serving biscuits or cornbread, adding to the southern charm of this dish. With chicken fried steak, you have a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Expert Tips for Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
Achieving the perfect chicken fried steak in an air fryer is simple with a few expert tips. First, choose the right type of steak. Tenderized cuts like cube steak or round steak work best because they cook quickly and stay juicy. Second, ensure you coat your meat thoroughly in the flour before dipping it into the egg wash and breadcrumbs; this creates a flavorful crust. Don’t rush the breading process; take your time to make sure each piece is evenly coated.
Another key point is to preheat your air fryer properly to achieve that crispy texture. If you skip this step, the steak might not crisp up as nicely. Flip the steaks halfway through cooking to encourage even browning on both sides. You can also experiment with additional spices in the breadcrumb mixture to customize the flavor to your liking. Finally, consider serving with homemade gravy, which you can make by using the flour from the first step mixed with broth, creating a delicious complement to your steak.
How to Store Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
To store leftover chicken fried steak, first ensure that it has cooled down to room temperature. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. In the refrigerator, your chicken fried steak can last for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the steak. Wrap each piece tightly, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Chicken fried steak stored this way can last for about 2-3 months.
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, use your air fryer for the best results. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), then cook the steak for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crisp again.
Variations of Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
While traditional chicken fried steak is beloved, you can explore various adaptations to suit your preferences or dietary needs. One popular variation is using chicken breast instead of beef. Simply pound the chicken to an even thickness, bread it, and follow the same cooking steps for a delicious chicken version. You can also swap in turkey or other proteins, making this dish suitable for different tastes.
If you want to add a twist, consider creating a spicy chicken fried steak by incorporating cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the breading. Alternatively, try using flavored breadcrumbs, such as Italian seasoned or garlic, to enhance the dish’s complexity.
Vegetarians can indulge in a meatless version by using thick slices of eggplant or zucchini. Coat these vegetable slices with the same seasoned flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs before air frying. Lastly, you can experiment with the gravy by adding spices or ingredients like mushrooms for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that chicken fried steak in the air fryer can always remain fresh and exciting.
FAQ about Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)
1. Can I use a different cut of meat for chicken fried steak in the air fryer?
Absolutely! While cube steak or round steak are traditional choices, you can use other cuts like chicken or turkey. Just ensure they are tenderized for the best results.
2. How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Make sure to coat the meat thoroughly in flour before the egg wash and breadcrumbs, and press the breadcrumbs onto the meat to help them stick during cooking.
3. Can I make chicken fried steak in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded steaks ahead of time and refrigerate them. When ready to cook, simply place them in the air fryer from the fridge.
4. What sauces pair well with chicken fried steak?
Traditional gravy is a favorite, but you can also serve it with ranch dressing, hot sauce, or a tangy mustard sauce for added flavor.
5. Can chicken fried steak be reheated?
Yes, you can reheat chicken fried steak in the air fryer; just remember to preheat it first, then cook for a few minutes until heated through.
6. Is chicken fried steak in the air fryer healthier than traditional methods?
Yes, using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking while still delivering a crispy texture, making it a healthier option compared to deep frying.
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients
For the Breading
- 2 pieces tenderized beef steak (round or cube steak)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon milk for the egg mixture
- 2 large eggs for the egg mixture
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko) for extra crunch
- Cooking spray or an oil mister to prevent sticking
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare your workspace with three shallow bowls for breading the steak.
- In the first bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Place the breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
Breading the Steak
- Coat each piece of tenderized beef steak lightly in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured steak into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Move the steak to the bowl with breadcrumbs, ensuring it is fully coated with breadcrumbs and pressing gently to adhere.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the breaded steak pieces in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook the steaks for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the chicken fried steak and let it rest while you prepare gravy if desired.
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