Chicken fried steak is a beloved American dish that combines the flavors of fried chicken with the tenderness of steak. It is a comfort food that is often enjoyed with mashed potatoes and gravy. Traditionally, chicken fried steak is deep-fried, but with the rise in popularity of air fryers, many people are wondering how to cook it in this convenient appliance. If you have an air fryer and are eager to make crispy and delicious chicken fried steak, this quick and easy guide will show you the ideal cooking time and temperature.
Preparing the Chicken Fried Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it is important to prepare the chicken fried steak properly. Start by gathering the necessary ingredients: cube steak, all-purpose flour, buttermilk, eggs, bread crumbs or panko, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Cube steak is a tenderized cut of beef that is perfect for making chicken fried steak, as it becomes even more tender during cooking.
Tenderizing the Meat
To ensure that your cube steak is as tender as possible, you can use a meat tenderizer or the back of a fork to gently pound the steaks. This step breaks down the tough muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Seasoning the Meat
Next, generously season both sides of the cube steaks with salt and pepper. Additionally, you can add other seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder to enhance the flavor. Allow the seasoned steak to rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Dredging the Steaks
To achieve that perfect crispy coating, it’s important to properly dredge the steaks. Start by coating the cube steaks in a layer of all-purpose flour. This helps the buttermilk and eggs to adhere to the steak. After coating with flour, dip the steak into a mixture of buttermilk and beaten eggs. Finally, coat the steaks with bread crumbs or panko. Ensure that the steaks are evenly coated on both sides, as this will result in a crispy and delicious chicken fried steak.
Cooking the Chicken Fried Steak in an Air Fryer
Now that the chicken fried steak is properly prepared, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. This will allow the air fryer to reach the desired temperature, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior.
Using Cooking Spray
To prevent the chicken fried steak from sticking to the air fryer basket, it’s important to lightly coat it with cooking spray or brush it with oil. This will also aid in achieving a crispy texture.
Air Frying Time
The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your cube steaks, but on average, it takes around 15 to 20 minutes to cook chicken fried steak in an air fryer. However, it’s best to check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure the steak is properly cooked. Cook the steak until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which is the recommended safe temperature for cooked beef.
Flipping the Steak
About halfway through the cooking process, carefully flip the chicken fried steak using tongs. This will ensure that both sides are evenly cooked and crispy.
Allowing Rest Time
Once the chicken fried steak is cooked to perfection, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the steak, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your chicken fried steak is ready, it’s time to serve this delightful dish! Chicken fried steak is often enjoyed with classic accompaniments such as mashed potatoes and country gravy. The creamy mashed potatoes perfectly complement the crispy exterior and tender interior of the steak. Drizzle the chicken fried steak with homemade or store-bought country gravy to add extra richness and flavor. You can also serve it with a side of crisp green beans or cornbread to complete the meal.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken fried steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy process that yields a crispy and delicious result. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy this beloved comfort food without the need for excessive oil or deep frying. Remember to properly prepare the cube steaks, ensure the air fryer is properly preheated, and cook the steaks until they reach the recommended internal temperature. With these tips in mind, you can confidently make chicken fried steak in an air fryer and delight your friends and family with this classic American dish.