Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that combines tenderized beef steak with a crispy, golden-brown coating, all made effortlessly in an air fryer. This recipe showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite while significantly reducing the calories and oil traditionally used in frying. Perfect for a cozy family meal or a weekend indulgence, this dish is sure to impress and please even the pickiest eaters.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll absolutely adore this air fryer chicken fried steak for its incredible flavor and the ease with which it comes together. The air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a healthier alternative to the traditional frying method. The crispy coating is packed with savory spices, and the juicy meat creates a delicious contrast that will have you coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great fit for anyone looking to enjoy a comfort food classic without the guilt!
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your air fryer chicken fried steak turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips and tricks in mind:
- Pound the Steak: Use a meat mallet to tenderize the steak, ensuring even cooking and a tender bite.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning in both the breading and the meat. A well-seasoned dish is key to flavor.
- Use Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the breaded steak with cooking spray before air frying to enhance the crispiness.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Air needs room to circulate.
Make Ahead Tips
If you’re short on time, you can prepare elements of this recipe in advance:
- Marinate the Steak: You can marinate the steak overnight in your favorite seasoning blend to enhance flavor.
- Bread the Steaks: Bread the steaks and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Make sure to cover them to keep them fresh.
- Make the Gravy Ahead: If you plan to serve gravy with your chicken fried steak, you can make it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your air fryer chicken fried steak with these variations:
- Different Proteins: Swap out beef for chicken breasts or pork chops for a new twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading for extra heat.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
How to Serve
For the ultimate presentation, serve your air fryer chicken fried steak on a warm plate with generous portions of creamy gravy drizzled over the top. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a splash of color and freshness.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your meal, consider pairing it with a refreshing iced tea or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. For sides, buttery corn on the cob, coleslaw, or a tangy cucumber salad would beautifully round out the meal. Don’t forget to finish with a slice of chocolate pie or peach cobbler for dessert!
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze them, place the cooked chicken fried steak in a single layer in the freezer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need an air fryer for this recipe, which is essential for achieving that crispy texture. A meat mallet or rolling pin for tenderizing the steak is also recommended. You can use a shallow dish for breading and a whisk for beating the eggs.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute the beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use a vegan egg substitute for the breading. For a dairy-free version, replace milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free margarine in the gravy.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, try incorporating seasonal spices like sage and nutmeg into your breading mix for a warm, autumnal flavor. In the summer, consider serving your chicken fried steak with a fresh garden salad using seasonal, locally-grown vegetables for a light and bright meal.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes! Chicken breasts can be used for a lighter version of chicken fried steak.
- How long should I cook the steak? Typically, about 10-12 minutes at 400°F should suffice, but always check for doneness.
- Can I skip the gravy? Absolutely! The chicken fried steak is delicious on its own or served with your favorite sauce.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can use a traditional oven at a higher temperature (around 425°F) and cook until crispy, but the texture may differ.
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that combines tenderized beef steak with a crispy, golden-brown coating, all made effortlessly in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef round steak, tenderized
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
- Optional: Gravy for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the two eggs until well-beaten.
- Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
- Take the tenderized steak, coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured steak into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Finally, dredge the steak in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Lightly spray the breaded steak with cooking spray.
- Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with gravy, if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 608Total Fat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 212mgSodium: 885mgCarbohydrates: 46gFiber: 3gSugar: 2gProtein: 47g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, air fryer chicken fried steak is a deliciously satisfying meal that marries convenience and flavor in a way that everyone will appreciate. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it up for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this delightful comfort food without the guilt!
