Low Carb Chicken Fried Steak is a deliciously satisfying twist on a classic comfort food dish. This healthier version replaces traditional flour coatings with nutrient-rich alternatives, making it perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Crispy, golden-brown chicken is smothered in a creamy gravy, creating a hearty meal that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the waistline.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves the indulgence of chicken fried steak but wants to maintain a low-carb diet. The flavors are rich and comforting, with a perfectly seasoned crust that locks in the juiciness of the chicken. It’s easy to whip up on a weeknight, requiring minimal prep time and simple ingredients. Plus, it fits seamlessly into a keto or low-carb lifestyle, allowing you to enjoy a classic dish guilt-free.
Tips and Tricks
- Pound the Chicken: For tender and evenly cooked chicken, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before breading.
- Use Pork Rinds: For the breading, crushed pork rinds offer a perfect low-carb alternative to breadcrumbs, adding great flavor and crunch.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasonings! A good blend of spices will elevate the dish significantly.
- Gravy Variations: Experiment with adding garlic or onion powder to your gravy for extra depth of flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can prepare the chicken by pounding and breading it a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry. The gravy can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chicken Fried Steak: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg wash for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Gravy: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into your gravy for a fragrant twist.
- Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with pork chops or even turkey cutlets for a different take on this recipe.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb chicken fried steak with a rich brown gravy generously poured over it. For an appealing presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. Pair with steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad to complete the meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully. Alternatively, a light lager or an iced herbal tea can also work well. On the side, consider serving garlic mashed cauliflower or roasted Brussels sprouts for a satisfying low-carb accompaniment.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the chicken fried steak, wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness of the crust.
Equipment Needed
- Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for achieving that perfect crispy crust. If you don’t have one, any heavy skillet will do.
- Meat Mallet: To pound the chicken breasts evenly.
- Baking Sheet: For resting the chicken after frying.
- Food Processor or Plastic Bag: For crushing the pork rinds.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute heavy cream in the gravy with coconut milk or almond milk. For a gluten-free version, ensure that the pork rinds are labeled gluten-free. Additionally, for those avoiding animal products entirely, consider using a plant-based protein like tofu or seitan and vegan gravy.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer months, fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can be used in the gravy for a fresher taste. During the winter, consider adding spices like sage or nutmeg to enhance the warmth of the flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will work perfectly and offer a juicier option.
- What can I substitute for pork rinds? You can use almond flour or crushed nuts, but keep in mind that this will alter the texture.
- How long does the chicken take to fry? Generally, about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Low Carb Chicken Fried Steak
Low Carb Chicken Fried Steak is a deliciously satisfying twist on a classic comfort food dish.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup crushed pork rinds
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of oil.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. In another bowl, combine the crushed pork rinds, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the pork rind mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot skillet and fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a baking sheet.
- For the gravy, reduce the heat to low, melt the butter in the skillet, and whisk in the chicken broth and any leftover breading bits. Allow it to thicken for a few minutes before serving over the chicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 2 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 521Total Fat: 31gSaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 353mgSodium: 770mgCarbohydrates: 4gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 55g
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
Low carb chicken fried steak is a recipe that combines indulgence with health-conscious eating, proving that you can enjoy comfort food without the guilt. With its crispy exterior and creamy gravy, it’s sure to become a favorite in your low-carb repertoire. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of this classic dish reinvented for a modern diet!
