Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering recipe for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried steak. A true Southern classic, this dish boasts a crunchy coating that locks in all the juicy goodness, while the creamy white pepper gravy ties it all together in a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re aiming to impress at a special Sunday dinner or simply craving a homestyle delight, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

I still remember the first time I whipped up this Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried steak for my dad’s birthday. The entire family couldn’t get enough, eagerly reaching for seconds even before the gravy pot hit the table. The crispy exterior paired with the tender interior never fails to elicit joy around the kitchen, making it a staple for every holiday meal. And oh, that peppery gravy – it’s a true showstopper that always leaves me sneaking in an extra spoonful for myself.

Whether you’re looking to recreate cherished family memories or simply craving a hearty meal that warms the soul, this recipe for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried steak is a must-try. With each bite, you’ll be transported to a place where comfort and flavor reign supreme, making every moment spent savoring this dish truly special.

Quick Benefits

• Buttermilk tenderizes the steak, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bite.
• Cubed steak is ideal as it absorbs marinade well, enhancing the tenderness of the dish.
• The crispy coating locks in moisture, creating a crunchy exterior with a tender inside.
• Preparing the gravy before frying allows for a smoother texture when reheated.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Recipe

• Comfort Food at Its Best: This recipe offers a classic Southern comfort food experience that is sure to warm your heart and soul.
• Crispy and Tender: The crunchy coating locks in moisture, giving you a crispy exterior and a tender inside with every bite.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners, this dish is loved by all generations and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping ingredients for dietary preferences such as using chicken instead of beef or gluten-free flour.
• Memorable Flavors: The creamy white pepper gravy ties everything together, adding a burst of flavor that will have you coming back for more.
• Pairing Possibilities: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or corn, making it a versatile option for any meal.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze both the cooked steaks and gravy, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal even on busy days without compromising on taste and texture.
• Southern Heritage: Rooted in Southern cuisine, this recipe pays homage to classic flavors and traditions, offering a taste of history with each bite.
• Cooking Tips: The recipe provides helpful cooking tips like pressing the steak into flour, avoiding overcrowding the pan, and serving the steak immediately for the best texture.
• Sensory Delight: From the sizzling sound of the frying steak to the aroma of the gravy, every step of preparing this dish engages your senses and promises a delightful dining experience.

Ingredients for Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

For the Steaks

• 4 beef cube steaks, approximately 0.4 inch thick
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Breading

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 large eggs

For Frying and Gravy

• Black pepper, to taste
• 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
• 2.5 cups whole milk
• Vegetable oil, for shallow frying
• Salt, to taste

Pro Tips for Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

For the crispiest result, press the beef cube steaks firmly into the flour coating both times and fry them in hot oil. Allowing the steaks to rest on a wire rack after frying will help maintain their crispy texture rather than placing them on paper towels, which can make them soggy.

Using cubed steak is recommended for this recipe as it is already tenderized and absorbs the marinade well, resulting in juicy and flavorful fried steaks. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for ten minutes to curdle.

Prepare the gravy ahead of time if desired, but make sure to reheat it gently and whisk it well to maintain a smooth texture. Remember to keep the oil hot, avoid overcrowding the pan, and serve the crispy buttermilk chicken fried steak immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.

How to Make Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Tenderize and Season Cube Steaks

Place cube steaks between plastic wrap and pound until they are 0.2 inch thick. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Prepare Dredging Components

Whisk buttermilk and eggs in a shallow bowl. In a separate dish, mix 1.5 cups flour with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Dredge and Bread Steaks

Coat each steak in seasoned flour, dip in buttermilk mixture, then coat again in flour, pressing to coat evenly.

Step 4: Fry Steaks

In a large heavy skillet, heat vegetable oil to a depth of 0.5 inch over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry steaks in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Prepare Cream Gravy

Drain most of the oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons with browned bits. Add 0.25 cup flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring. Slowly whisk in whole milk, scraping up any browned bits, and continue whisking until thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Place steaks on plates and generously pour hot gravy over each steak. Serve promptly.

Storage Tips

After preparing the delicious crispy buttermilk chicken fried steak, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness and flavor. To store the cooked steaks and gravy, separate them into individual airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator. The coating of the steak will remain crisper if you reheat the steaks in the oven instead of using a microwave. As the gravy chills, it may thicken, so when reheating, simply whisk in a splash of milk until it reaches a pourable consistency.

For longer storage, cooked steaks can be frozen for up to two months. Ensure the steaks cool completely before wrapping them tightly in foil and placing them in the freezer. To reheat frozen steaks, lay them in a single layer in the oven to help them regain their crispy edge. The gravy can also be frozen separately in a freezer-safe bag and stirred smooth once thawed, allowing you to enjoy this Southern comfort food at a later date.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious crispy buttermilk chicken fried steak and gravy for future meals, whether reheating from the fridge or freezer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by stirring a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into regular milk and letting it sit for about 10 minutes. This will give the milk a tangy flavor similar to buttermilk. Additionally, if you prefer chicken over beef, chicken cutlets can be used as a substitute for beef cube steaks in this recipe.

For those following a gluten-free diet, you can swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular all-purpose flour. Just be sure to check that your seasonings are also certified gluten-free. This simple swap will allow you to enjoy this delicious crispy buttermilk chicken fried steak without any gluten-containing ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try deconstructing this classic dish by serving bite-sized portions of crispy buttermilk chicken fried steak on skewers, drizzled with the peppery white gravy for dipping. This makes for a fun and interactive appetizer or party snack that guests will love!

Another idea is to create a Southern-inspired brunch board featuring slices of crispy buttermilk chicken fried steak alongside fluffy biscuits, scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a variety of jams and spreads. Add a pop of color with fresh berries and a sprinkle of chopped herbs on the gravy for a visually appealing and delicious spread that is perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch.

FAQs for Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken cutlets as a substitute for beef cube steaks if you prefer poultry. The cooking process and flavors will work well with chicken too.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap in a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your seasonings are certified gluten-free. This adjustment allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious dish.

Can I freeze the cooked steaks and gravy for later?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked steaks and gravy for later consumption. Cool the steaks completely, wrap them tightly in foil, and freeze for up to two months. Reheat the steaks in the oven to help them regain their crispiness. The gravy can be frozen separately in a freezer-safe bag and stirred smooth once thawed.

Why should I let the fried steaks rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels?

Allowing the fried steaks to rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels helps maintain their crispiness. Placing them on paper towels can cause the steam to soften the coating, while a wire rack allows air to circulate around the steaks, preserving their crispy texture.

Conclusion

As you savor the last bite of your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried steak, I hope this recipe has brought joy and warmth to your table, just as it has to mine. The golden crispiness of the coating paired with the creamy gravy creates a harmony of flavors that is undeniably comforting and delicious. Whether shared with family on a special occasion or enjoyed as a weekday indulgence, this dish has a way of making every moment feel a little more special.

So next time you’re in the mood for a taste of Southern comfort, remember this recipe for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried steak. With each crispy bite, may you feel the love and tradition that it embodies, bringing people together and creating cherished memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the aroma of good food and happy hearts.