There’s something about chicken fried steak that brings back warm memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. I remember my first taste of this classic dish—it was crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in rich gravy. Oh, the comfort it brought! Now, I’ve discovered an even better way to enjoy this beloved meal: using my air fryer. Trust me, you won’t believe how easy it is to whip up the *best* air fryer chicken fried steak. The air fryer works its magic, creating a perfectly crispy crust while keeping the steak tender and flavorful. Plus, it’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste! In just about an hour, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making this delightful dish that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the *best* air fryer chicken fried steak! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 beef steaks: Choose your favorite cut, like sirloin or round, ensuring they’re of even thickness for consistent cooking.
- 1 cup buttermilk: This will tenderize the steak and add a creamy richness. You can make your own by mixing milk with a splash of vinegar if you’re out!
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base for your crispy coating. Don’t forget to sift it for a lighter texture.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: This gives a lovely color and subtle flavor. Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika for a twist!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have for that savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors; adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a little kick!
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional, but it adds a nice heat if you’re feeling bold.
- Cooking spray: This helps achieve that golden-brown crust without all the oil.
With these ingredients prepped and ready, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak
Getting ready to make the *best* air fryer chicken fried steak is easier than you might think! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a crispy, tender meal in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak the steaks: Start by soaking your beef steaks in buttermilk. This step is crucial for ensuring they’re tender and flavorful. Let them soak for at least 1 hour—if you have the time, letting them sit overnight in the fridge works wonders!
- Prepare the coating: While the steaks are soaking, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne in a shallow bowl. This is the magic mixture that will give your steaks that crispy, golden crust.
- Dredge the steaks: After the soaking time, remove the steaks from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. For an extra crunch, consider double dipping: back into the buttermilk and then back into the flour!
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures that they’ll get that perfect crispy texture.
- Arrange the steaks: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated steaks in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t touching. Give the tops a light spray with cooking spray too—this helps them crisp up nicely!
- Cook to perfection: Air fry the steaks for about 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety.
And there you have it! Serve immediately, and prepare for everyone to rave about your delicious air fryer chicken fried steak!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This air fryer chicken fried steak recipe is a game-changer, and here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Quick preparation: With just an hour of soaking and cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
- Healthier cooking method: The air fryer uses significantly less oil, making this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
- Crispy texture: You won’t believe how perfectly crispy the coating gets in the air fryer—better than frying!
- Easy cleanup: Less mess means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make your *air fryer chicken fried steak* truly unforgettable, I’ve got some pro tips that will elevate your dish to the next level!
- Adjust the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to tweak the spices to suit your taste! If you love heat, add more cayenne or try some chili powder for a different kick.
- Double dip for extra crunch: For a delightfully crunchy coating, consider double dipping your steaks. After the initial buttermilk soak, dredge them in the flour mixture, then dip them back into the buttermilk before a final coat of flour.
- Let the steaks rest: After cooking, let your steaks rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.
- Experiment with sauces: Serve your air fryer chicken fried steak with different sauces! Gravy is classic, but a spicy ranch or zesty aioli can add a fun twist.
With these tips, you’ll have everyone begging for more of your delicious chicken fried steak!
Variations
Get creative with your *air fryer chicken fried steak*! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:
- Seasoning swaps: Try adding different spices to your flour mixture. Cajun seasoning can give it a Southern twist, or Italian herbs for a flavorful change!
- Cheesy goodness: For a cheesy kick, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese into the flour mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Different sauces: While classic gravy is a must, consider serving your steak with a creamy mushroom sauce or a tangy barbecue sauce for a delightful twist.
- Vegetable pairing: Serve the chicken fried steak with a side of air-fried veggies like zucchini or sweet potatoes for a colorful, delicious plate.
These variations allow you to personalize your dish and keep things exciting at the dinner table!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your *air fryer chicken fried steak*, the right sides and sauces can elevate the entire meal! Here are some delightful ideas:
- Classic gravy: You can’t go wrong with a rich, creamy gravy poured generously over your steak. It adds an indulgent touch that everyone loves!
- Mashed potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes are a perfect partner, soaking up all that delicious gravy and balancing the dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy steak, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Green beans: Sautéed or air-fried green beans provide a vibrant pop of color and a healthy crunch that complements the meal beautifully.
Mix and match these sides to create a hearty, satisfying dinner that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional information for each serving of your delicious air fryer chicken fried steak. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
These estimates give you a good idea of what to expect, making it easier to enjoy this delightful meal while keeping an eye on your nutritional goals!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making *air fryer chicken fried steak*? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my trusty answers:
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts or thighs for a delightful twist on this classic dish. Just adjust the cooking time, as chicken may cook faster.
- What if I don’t have buttermilk? No worries! You can easily make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’re all set!
- How do I store leftovers? Keep any leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispiness!
- Can I freeze the cooked steak? Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken fried steak. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. When you’re ready to eat, reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.
These tips will help you get the most out of your air fryer chicken fried steak experience!
Print
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak: 5 Reasons To Love It
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Crispy and tender chicken fried steak made in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 2 beef steaks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Soak the steaks in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
- In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Remove steaks from buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the coated steaks in the basket in a single layer.
- Spray the tops of the steaks with cooking spray.
- Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve with gravy or your favorite sauce.
- For extra crunch, double dip in buttermilk and flour.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: air fryer chicken fried steak
