Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich Recipe
Comfort food lovers, rejoice! The iconic chicken fried steak has taken a delightful turn, transforming into a hearty, handheld masterpiece – the chicken fried steak sandwich. This crowd-pleasing recipe combines the crunchy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy interior of classic chicken fried steak with the convenience and portability of a sandwich, making it the ultimate indulgence for any time of day.
Inspired by the down-home flavors of the American South, this chicken fried steak sandwich recipe has become a staple in households and eateries across the country. With its irresistible combination of textures and flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has captured the hearts (and appetites) of so many.
Get ready to savor the ultimate in comfort food bliss!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
The allure of this chicken fried steak sandwich is multifaceted. First and foremost, the sheer contrasts in texture are what make this dish so captivating. The crisp, golden-brown exterior of the chicken fried steak gives way to a tender, juicy interior, creating a delightful interplay of crunch and softness. The soft, pillowy bun serves as the perfect canvas to showcase this masterful combination.
But the appeal of this recipe extends beyond just the textural experience. It’s also incredibly accessible, with most of the ingredients being pantry or freezer staples. This means you can whip up these sandwiches anytime the craving strikes, without having to embark on a lengthy grocery run.
And for those who enjoy meal prepping, the chicken fried steak can be prepared in advance, making assembly a breeze when it’s time to enjoy.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich ❓
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 4 soft, toasted burger buns
• Desired toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayonnaise, etc.)
The beauty of this chicken fried steak sandwich recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender cube steak, crispy breading, and classic sandwich toppings creates the Southern-inspired flavor profile that has made chicken fried steak recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
• Step 3: Dredge the pounded steaks in the flour mixture, dip them in the beaten eggs, and then coat them with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere.
• Step 4: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded steaks and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Step 5: Drain the fried steaks on a paper towel-lined plate, then assemble the sandwiches by placing a steak on each toasted bun and topping with your desired condiments and toppings.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
• Total time: 23-25 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken fried steak, which can take up to 45 minutes to prepare, this chicken fried steak sandwich recipe saves you over 50% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 1,022mg
These chicken fried steak sandwiches provide approximately 72% of your daily protein requirements and 44% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour, and use pork rinds or crushed parmesan cheese instead of breadcrumbs.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use plant-based milk for the egg wash and omit any cheese toppings.
• Added protein: Serve the chicken fried steak on a whole-grain bun or wrap, and add a fried egg or grilled chicken breast for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Top the sandwiches with sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh salad.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the chicken fried steak sandwich.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the chicken fried steak sandwich with a tangy coleslaw or a fresh, crunchy pickle spear for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Complement the sandwich with a bowl of hearty vegetable or chicken noodle soup for a complete and satisfying lunch or dinner.
• For a weekend brunch, serve the chicken fried steak sandwich alongside scrambled eggs and a fresh fruit salad.
• Create an impressive appetizer platter by slicing the chicken fried steak into bite-sized pieces and serving them with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying the steaks in batches is crucial to maintain the crispiness of the breading. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
• Undercooking the steak: Make sure to fry the steaks until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, ensuring the meat is cooked through and tender.
• Skipping the tenderizing step: Pounding the cube steaks thin is an essential step that helps tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking.
• Forgetting to toast the buns: Toasting the buns helps them hold up to the weight and moisture of the chicken fried steak, preventing a soggy sandwich.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These chicken fried steak sandwiches retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the breaded steaks, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a resealable bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frying and assembling the sandwiches.
• Freezing baked: Allow the fried chicken fried steaks to cool completely, then wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap. Place the wrapped steaks in a resealable bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, remove the wrapping and place the steaks on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken fried steaks in a 350°F oven until crispy and hot, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.
❓ FAQs
Can I prepare the chicken fried steak in advance?
Absolutely! The chicken fried steak can be breaded and frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw the breaded steaks in the refrigerator before frying and assembling the sandwiches. You can also fry the steaks in advance and freeze them for up to 2 months, reheating them in the oven when ready to serve.
Can I substitute a different type of meat for the cube steak?
While cube steak is the traditional choice, you can use other types of tenderized beef, such as round steak or tenderized flank steak, for a slightly different flavor and texture. Pork chops or boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also work as alternatives, though the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To create a healthier version of this chicken fried steak sandwich, you can use lean, low-fat cube steaks and substitute plant-based milk for the egg wash. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour, and use panko breadcrumbs or crushed whole-grain crackers instead of traditional breadcrumbs. You can also top the sandwiches with extra vegetables, such as sliced tomatoes or lettuce, for added nutrition.
What should I do if the breading falls off during frying?
If the breading starts to fall off the chicken fried steak during frying, it’s likely due to not properly dredging the steaks in the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture. Ensure you are pressing the breading firmly onto the steaks before frying, and be gentle when flipping them in the hot oil to prevent the breading from separating.
Can I add any additional toppings or fillings to the sandwich?
Absolutely! The beauty of this chicken fried steak sandwich is its versatility. You can add a variety of toppings, such as cheese, bacon, sautéed onions, or pickled jalapeños, to customize the flavor profile to your liking. You can also try serving the chicken fried steak on a different type of bun, such as a brioche or pretzel bun, for a unique twist.
Conclusion
These chicken fried steak sandwiches represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a hearty weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend brunch, they’re sure to impress with their crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy interior. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these chicken fried steak sandwiches demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the frying process.
So why not treat yourself (and your loved ones) to the ultimate comfort food experience and whip up a batch of these irresistible sandwiches today?
PrintChicken Fried Steak Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 23-25 minutes
Ingredients
• 4 boneless, tenderized cube steaks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 4 soft, toasted burger buns
• Desired toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayonnaise, etc.)
Instructions
• Step 1: Pound the cube steaks between two sheets of plastic wrap or wax paper until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This will help tenderize the meat and ensure even cooking.
• Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
• Step 3: Dredge the pounded steaks in the flour mixture, dip them in the beaten eggs, and then coat them with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere.
• Step 4: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded steaks and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Step 5: Drain the fried steaks on a paper towel-lined plate, then assemble the sandwiches by placing a steak on each toasted bun and topping with your desired condiments and toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 582
- Sodium: 1,022mg
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
Keywords: Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich Recipe
