The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Fried Steak: A Delicious American Classic

When you think of iconic American comfort food, Chicken Fried Steak immediately comes to mind. This Southern delicacy is beloved for its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, making it a favorite among food lovers across the United States. But what exactly is Chicken Fried Steak, and why has it earned such a special place in American cuisine? In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the history, preparation, and variations of Chicken Fried Steak, as well as offer a closer look at how The Monroe Hotels are celebrating this quintessential dish.

What is Chicken Fried Steak?

At its core, Chicken Fried Steak is a dish consisting of tenderized beef steak that’s breaded and deep-fried, much like fried chicken. The steak is usually a round or tenderloin cut, which is pounded thin, seasoned, dipped in egg wash, and coated in flour or breadcrumbs before being fried to a crispy golden brown. It’s often served with creamy country gravy and sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread.

The dish’s name can be a little misleading, as it has nothing to do with chicken. The “chicken” in Chicken Fried Steak refers to the method of cooking, which resembles the process of making fried chicken. This unique dish is a true representation of Southern hospitality and comfort food at its finest.

The History of Chicken Fried Steak

The origin of Chicken Fried Steak is debated among food historians, with both Texas and the broader Southern United States claiming to be the birthplace of this iconic dish. What’s clear, however, is that Chicken Fried Steak has its roots in Southern and Western cooking, drawing on European influences, particularly German and Austrian schnitzels.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, German immigrants brought their schnitzel recipes to the United States. These breaded and fried meat dishes became popular in Southern cuisine, evolving over time into what we now know as Chicken Fried Steak. The dish became especially popular in the 1940s and 1950s, likely due to its affordability and ease of preparation during the Great Depression and post-World War II era.

Chicken Fried Steak: A Southern Staple

In Southern cooking, Chicken Fried Steak is more than just a meal – it’s a symbol of the region’s rich culinary traditions. The dish embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality, often served in family restaurants and diners. Whether it’s served at a local eatery or made in the comfort of home, Chicken Fried Steak has a way of bringing people together, making it an essential part of Southern food culture.

The dish is typically served with a generous amount of creamy white gravy, which is made from the pan drippings after frying the steak. This gravy is rich, savory, and comforting, adding an extra layer of flavor that elevates the dish to new heights. Whether you prefer your Chicken Fried Steak with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side of cornbread, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.

How to Make Chicken Fried Steak

While Chicken Fried Steak is a staple in many restaurants, it’s also a dish that can easily be made at home. Here’s a simple recipe for making this Southern classic:

Ingredients:

• 4 pieces of round steak (or tenderloin steak)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup buttermilk

• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 2 cups milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak: Begin by tenderizing the steak using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This step ensures the steak is juicy and tender after frying.

2. Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.

3. Make the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together until smooth.

4. Bread the Steak: Dip each piece of steak first into the egg wash, then coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure the steak is evenly coated on both sides.

5. Fry the Steak: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the steaks in the skillet and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Gradually add the milk while continuing to whisk until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve: Serve the Chicken Fried Steak with the creamy gravy poured over the top, alongside mashed potatoes or other Southern sides of your choice.

Why Chicken Fried Steak is So Loved

What makes Chicken Fried Steak so universally adored? It’s the perfect combination of textures – the crispy, crunchy coating on the outside and the tender, juicy meat on the inside. It’s a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and comforting, which is why it’s often referred to as “soul food.” Whether you’re enjoying it at a restaurant or cooking it up at home, Chicken Fried Steak offers an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures that is hard to resist.

Another reason for its popularity is its versatility. While the traditional version is served with white gravy, you can easily customize the dish to suit your preferences. Some people enjoy adding spices to the gravy for an extra kick, while others prefer to serve it with mashed potatoes, fries, or even a side salad. No matter how it’s served, Chicken Fried Steak always delivers a delicious, comforting meal.

The Monroe Hotels and Chicken Fried Steak

At The Monroe Hotels, we understand the importance of good food in creating a memorable experience. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to celebrate classic American dishes like Chicken Fried Steak. Our chefs use only the finest ingredients to craft this iconic Southern dish, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor and authenticity.

We believe that dining is an integral part of the guest experience, which is why we offer a range of comforting and indulgent dishes, including Chicken Fried Steak, at our restaurants. Whether you’re staying at one of our hotels or simply visiting for a meal, you can count on us to serve up a delicious plate of Chicken Fried Steak that will transport you to the heart of the American South.

Variations of Chicken Fried Steak Across the United States

While Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern classic, it has spread across the United States, with regional variations reflecting local ingredients and preferences. Here are a few examples of how Chicken Fried Steak is prepared in different parts of the country:

Texas-Style Chicken Fried Steak

In Texas, the steak is often larger and thicker, with a crispy, golden-brown crust. The gravy is sometimes spiced with cayenne pepper or chili powder to add a bit of heat.

Nashville Hot Chicken Fried Steak

Nashville is known for its spicy hot chicken, and some restaurants offer a fiery take on Chicken Fried Steak by adding a spicy seasoning blend to the breading and gravy.

Chicken Fried Steak with Jalapeños

In the Southwest, you may find Chicken Fried Steak topped with pickled jalapeños or served alongside a side of spicy salsa for an added kick.

Conclusion: Chicken Fried Steak – A Dish to Savor

Chicken Fried Steak is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. From its crispy coating to its tender meat and creamy gravy, every bite is a celebration of American comfort food. Whether you’re enjoying it at a Southern diner or cooking it up at home, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

At The Monroe Hotels, we pride ourselves on bringing the best of American cuisine to our guests, and Chicken Fried Steak is no exception. We invite you to join us for a delicious meal and experience the warmth and hospitality that come with every plate of Chicken Fried Steak. It’s a dish that captures the essence of Southern cooking and offers a taste of the comfort and tradition that makes American food so special.