Chicken Fried Steak Sandwiches are a beloved staple in Southern cuisine. Known for their crispy, flavorful crust and tender, juicy meat, these sandwiches offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to everyone. While traditionally enjoyed at home, Chicken Fried Steak Sandwiches have made their way into fast-food chains and diners across the country, including popular spots like Sonic. This article will guide you through making a delicious Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich at home, with tips, variations, and nutritional information.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich requires a few key ingredients that work together to create a savory, satisfying meal. Here is a list of everything you’ll need:
For the Chicken Fried Steak:
- 4 beef cube steaks (also known as minute steaks, about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sandwich Assembly:
- 4 sandwich buns (preferably brioche or Kaiser rolls)
- 4 slices of cheese (optional, such as American or cheddar)
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced pickles
- Mayonnaise
- Optional Toppings:
- Sliced onions
- Barbecue sauce
- Hot sauce
Instructions
Making a Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich at home is easier than you might think. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this Southern classic.
Preparing the Chicken Fried Steak:
- Prepare the Dredging Station:
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well combined.
- Coat the Steaks:
- Dip each beef cube steak into the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the steak into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, return the steak to the flour mixture, pressing it firmly to adhere the flour to the meat. This double-dipping process ensures a crispy coating.
- Fry the Steaks:
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully place the coated steaks in the skillet.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Assembling the Sandwich:
- Toast the Buns:
- Lightly toast the sandwich buns in a dry skillet or under a broiler until golden brown.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread mayonnaise on the top and bottom buns.
- Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by a fried steak.
- Add a slice of cheese, if desired, and top with sliced tomatoes and pickles.
- Add any additional toppings like onions, barbecue sauce, or hot sauce.
- Cover with the top bun and press gently to secure the sandwich.
Tips and Variations
To make your Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich even better, consider these tips and variations:
- Toppings: Customize your sandwich with a variety of toppings. Classic options include lettuce, tomato, and pickles, but you can also try jalapeños, coleslaw, or avocado for extra flavor.
- Cheese Options: While American cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other types like pepper jack or provolone for a different taste profile.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the flour mixture to control the spice level. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of paprika or hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and buns to make a gluten-free version of this sandwich.
- Healthier Alternative: For a lighter version, bake the steaks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information
Here is the basic nutritional information per serving for a Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich:
- Calories: 720
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
The Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich is a delicious, hearty meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior make it a favorite for many, and with this recipe, you can enjoy a homemade version that rivals your favorite fast-food spot. Whether you enjoy it plain or loaded with toppings, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your culinary adventures in the comments below. We’d love to hear your feedback and any creative variations you come up with. If you enjoyed this recipe, explore other exciting recipes on Easy Crispy Recipes and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious updates.