If you're a fan of crispy, golden-brown comfort food without the guilt, you're in for a treat! Welcome to the world of Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak, a delicious twist on a classic Southern dish. This recipe takes a beloved favorite and transforms it into a healthier option, using the magic of air frying. Imagine tender, juicy steak coated in a flavorful, crunchy crust that's cooked to perfection.
The best part? You'll use far less oil than traditional frying methods, making it a win for both your taste buds and your waistline. Get ready to savor the mouthwatering goodness of this dish, guilt-free!
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Healthier Cooking: The magic of the air fryer lies in its ability to crisp up food using hot air circulation, drastically reducing the need for excess oil. In this recipe, you get the same crispy texture as traditional fried steak but with a fraction of the fat. It's a win-win for your taste buds and your waistline.
Flavor Explosion: The secret to this recipe's success is the well-seasoned coating that sticks to the steak, creating a flavorful and crunchy outer layer. It's like a tasty armor protecting the juicy steak inside. Plus, the air fryer cooks the steak evenly, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor and tenderness. So, whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe works because it's easy, healthier, and incredibly delicious – making it a must-try for your next meal.
Ingredients
Cube Steak: This is the star of the show – tenderized beef, perfect for frying. Substitutes: Round steak or pork chops.
Eggs: These bind everything together and give your steak a crispy coating. Substitutes: Buttermilk or yogurt.
Flour: Coats the steak for that crispy, golden finish. Substitutes: Cornmeal or breadcrumbs.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and paprika add flavor. Substitutes: Garlic powder or onion powder.
Cooking Spray: Keeps your steak from sticking and helps it crisp up. Substitutes: Olive oil or butter.
Tips
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Ensure it's nice and hot before cooking for a crispier result.
- Spray or Brush with Oil: A light coat of oil helps with browning.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook in batches for even frying.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your liking.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken fried steak rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
How to Serve
Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food!
- Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy for a traditional Southern-style meal.
- Make a hearty sandwich by placing it between two slices of bread with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
- For a low-carb option, pair it with a fresh salad.
Similar Recipes
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients
- 4 cube steaks
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray or oil
- Optional: gravy for serving
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In another bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Dip each steak in the egg, then coat with the flour mixture.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray the basket with cooking spray or lightly brush with oil.
- Place the coated steaks in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with gravy if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Ensure it's nice and hot before cooking for a crispier result.
- Spray or Brush with Oil: A light coat of oil helps with browning.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook in batches for even frying.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your liking.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken fried steak rest for a few minutes to retain juices.