The aroma of crispy, golden-brown chicken fried steak wafts through the kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of summer. Imagine sinking your teeth into that first bite, where the crunchy coating gives way to tender, juicy meat. This is not just food it’s a celebration of flavors that scream summer and comfort all at once.
Every bite transports me back to sun-soaked afternoons spent with family, laughter echoing around the table as we devoured this delightful dish. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner inside, summer chicken fried steak should be your go-to recipe for creating memorable moments filled with flavor and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This summer chicken fried steak is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavor profile combines savory spices with a crispy coating that everyone loves
- Its enticing golden color makes it visually appealing on any plate
- Versatile enough for lunch or dinner, you can serve it with various sides for a complete meal
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends their delighted expressions told me I had struck gold in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Usually about 3-4 chicken breasts will do, but adjust based on your crowd size.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that amazing crispy coating sift it for best results.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tanginess if you don’t have any, regular milk mixed with vinegar works too.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for binding and enhancing the richness of the breading.
- Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Essential basics that elevate flavors don’t skimp on seasoning
- Paprika: Adds a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the coating smoked paprika is my personal favorite.
- Cooking Oil (Vegetable or Canola): For frying choose one with a high smoke point for best results.
- Optional: Gravy Ingredients (Butter, Milk, Flour): If you want to take this dish over the top with homemade gravy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Chicken Fried Steak: Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound them gently until they are about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
Create Your Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned generously with salt, pepper, and paprika another with beaten eggs mixed with buttermilk and the last filled with plain flour.
Dredge Like a Pro: First, coat each chicken breast in seasoned flour. Then dip it into the egg mixture before returning it to the flour. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum crunchiness.
Heat Up That Oil: In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat until shimmering (about 350°F/175°C). Test if it’s ready by dropping in a small piece of bread it should sizzle instantly.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully add your breaded chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding until golden brown on both sides about 3-4 minutes per side.
Drain and Rest: Once cooked through and beautifully golden, transfer them onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving this allows juices to settle.
Now that you have crafted this delicious summer chicken fried steak masterpiece, serve it up with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fresh salad for an unforgettable meal
You Must Know
- This Summer Chicken Fried Steak recipe combines crispy textures with juicy flavors, making it perfect for warm weather
- Pair it with fresh veggies for a delightful contrast
- Remember, the right oil temperature is key to achieving that perfect crunch
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by warming up your oil while you prepare the chicken. Dredge the meat in flour and seasonings before frying. This ensures even cooking and a golden crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular flour for whole wheat or gluten-free options. Adding a pinch of cayenne can spice things up nicely
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in an oven to preserve crispiness, about 10-15 minutes at 350°F.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Start with room temperature chicken for better frying results cold chicken may cook unevenly
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, aiming for 165°F for safety
- Don’t overcrowd the pan fry in batches if necessary to keep that glorious crunch intact
Cooking this dish always reminds me of summer barbecues with family and friends, where laughter echoed as we dug into crispy, golden goodness.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely Chicken thighs add a richer flavor and stay juicier during frying.
What sides pair well with Summer Chicken Fried Steak?
Fresh coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob complements this dish beautifully.
How do I make the gravy from the drippings?
After frying, whisk flour into the drippings, slowly adding broth until desired thickness is reached.
Summer Chicken Fried Steak
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Summer Chicken Fried Steak! Crispy, golden-brown chicken breasts are coated in a savory blend of spices, delivering a mouthwatering crunch with every bite. Perfect for sunny afternoons or cozy dinners, this dish is sure to create memorable moments around the table. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a delightful meal that screams summer joy!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp paprika (smoked preferred)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Optional: Gravy ingredients (2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp flour, 1 cup milk)
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with seasoned flour (flour, salt, pepper, paprika), one with beaten eggs and buttermilk, and one with plain flour.
- Dredge each chicken breast in seasoned flour, dip in egg mixture, then coat again in plain flour to achieve maximum crunchiness.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Test readiness by dropping in a small piece of bread—it should sizzle.
- Fry chicken in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Allow resting for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
