Chicken fried steak is a popular dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations. It is a comfort food that is often associated with Southern cuisine. Traditionally, chicken fried steak is made by coating a steak in a seasoned flour mixture and then frying it in oil until it is crispy and golden brown. However, with the rise in popularity of air fryers, many people are now looking for ways to make this classic dish using this new cooking appliance. In this article, we will explore how to make chicken fried steak in an air fryer, providing you with a delicious and healthier twist on this beloved dish.
What is an Air Fryer?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s first discuss what an air fryer is. An air fryer is a countertop kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food. It is designed to mimic the results of deep frying with little to no oil. By using a combination of high heat and powerful fans, the air fryer creates a crispy outer layer on the food, giving it a texture similar to that achieved through traditional deep frying. This makes it a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it significantly reduces the amount of oil used in the cooking process.
Ingredients
To make chicken fried steak in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 cube steaks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– Cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Steak
Start by patting the cube steaks dry with a paper towel. This will help the flour mixture adhere better to the steak. Season the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Preparing the Flour Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Dredging the Steaks
Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Press the flour onto the steak to help it adhere.
Step 4: Preparing the Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they are well combined. This will serve as the egg wash, which will help the flour mixture stick to the steak.
Step 5: Coating the Steaks
Dip the flour-coated steaks into the egg wash, making sure to coat both sides. Allow any excess egg wash to drip off before proceeding.
Step 6: Air Frying the Steaks
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated steaks in a single layer in the basket, without overcrowding.
Step 7: Cooking the Steaks
Cook the steaks in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and the specific model of your air fryer. The steaks should be golden brown and crispy when done.
Step 8: Serving the Chicken Fried Steak
Once the chicken fried steaks are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help the steaks retain their juices and ensure that they are tender and flavorful. Serve the chicken fried steak with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes and gravy, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why Make Chicken Fried Steak in an Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer to make chicken fried steak offers several advantages over traditional deep frying. Firstly, air frying requires little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative. This significantly reduces the calorie and fat content of the dish, which is beneficial for those watching their waistline or trying to maintain a healthier diet.
Furthermore, air frying eliminates the need for large quantities of oil, which can be messy and time-consuming to handle. Without the need for oil, there is also less risk of hot oil splattering and causing burns. This makes the air fryer a safer option for home cooks, especially those who are not comfortable or experienced with deep frying.
Additionally, using an air fryer for chicken fried steak results in a dish with a crispy outer layer and tender interior, similar to the traditional version. The air fryer’s high heat and circulating hot air create a nice golden brown crust on the steak, giving it a satisfying texture and delicious flavor.
Variations and Tips
While the basic recipe provided above is a classic way to make chicken fried steak in an air fryer, there are some variations and tips you can try to customize the dish to your liking.
– For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture.
– Experiment with different seasonings and spices to give the chicken fried steak more depth of flavor. Consider adding dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil to the flour mixture.
– If you prefer a thicker crust, you can double coat the steaks by repeating the flour and egg wash steps.
– To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the steaks in batches if necessary.
– If you have a larger air fryer, you can try making larger portions of chicken fried steak. Simply adjust the ingredients accordingly and ensure that the steaks are evenly spaced in the air fryer basket.
In conclusion, making chicken fried steak in an air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy this classic dish with a healthier twist. By using an air fryer instead of deep frying, you can achieve a crispy and delicious chicken fried steak with significantly less oil. So, dust off your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt!