Crispy Chicken Fried Steak: Air Fryer Recipe

Chicken fried steak is a delicious and comforting dish that can be easily prepared in an air fryer, making it a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying. This guide will provide a step-by-step process to achieve a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, juicy interior. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy the flavors of a classic fried steak without the excess oil and calories. The process involves marinating the steak, coating it with a crispy breading, and then cooking it in the air fryer until it's perfectly browned and cooked through.

Preparation: Season steak, coat in breading, and place in air fryer basket

To prepare the chicken fried steak for the air fryer, start by taking a fresh piece of steak, preferably a cut that is about 1-inch thick. This cut is ideal as it holds together well during cooking. Pat the steak dry with paper towels; this step is crucial as it ensures a crispy exterior. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor if desired. Let the seasoned steak sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.

While the steak is resting, prepare your breading station. Set up a sequence of three shallow bowls or plates. In the first bowl, place your beaten egg, beaten with a splash of milk to create a light batter. In the second bowl, put your seasoned flour (you can use a store-bought seasoned flour mix or make your own with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder). In the third bowl, have your breadcrumbs ready; you can use a mix of regular breadcrumbs and panko for a crispier texture.

Now, take the steak and coat it in the egg mixture, ensuring an even layer. Then, dip it into the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Finally, cover the steak with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. This process creates a crispy, golden exterior.

Place the breaded steak into the air fryer basket. Ensure the basket is not overloaded, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Spray the steak with cooking oil to prevent sticking and promote even browning. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping the steak halfway through. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your steak and your air fryer, so keep an eye on it to achieve the desired level of crispiness.

Cooking Time: Set air fryer to 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway

When it comes to cooking chicken fried steak in an air fryer, timing is crucial to ensure a perfectly cooked and crispy result. The air fryer's rapid air circulation cooking method allows for a quick and efficient way to achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the steak tender and juicy inside. Here's a detailed guide on how to set the cooking time and achieve the best outcome:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking chicken fried steak as it helps create a crispy crust while cooking the steak evenly. Preheating ensures that the air fryer is ready to go and helps distribute the heat effectively.

Cooking Time: Place the chicken fried steak into the air fryer basket. Set the cooking time for 12 to 15 minutes. This duration is a general guideline, and the actual time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your air fryer's power. Aim for the higher end of the range if the steak is thicker, and adjust accordingly. It's important to note that the cooking time should be divided into two phases: the first 8-10 minutes at 375°F for the initial cooking, and then a final 2-3 minutes at a higher temperature (around 400°F) to crisp up the exterior.

Flipping the Steak: After the initial 8-10 minutes, carefully flip the chicken fried steak using tongs or a spatula. This step is crucial for even cooking and browning. Flipping ensures that both sides of the steak are exposed to the hot air, creating a crispy texture. Make sure to flip it halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning.

Crisping Up the Exterior: For the final minutes, you can increase the air fryer's temperature to 400°F (200°C) to crisp up the steak's exterior even more. This step is optional but will result in a more golden and crispy finish. Keep an eye on the steak during this time to avoid overcooking.

Remember, cooking times may vary, so it's essential to keep an eye on your steak and adjust the time as needed. The air fryer's rapid cooking method makes it a convenient and efficient way to enjoy a crispy, delicious chicken fried steak.

Temperature Control: Monitor internal temp to ensure 160°F for safe eating

When cooking chicken fried steak in an air fryer, precise temperature control is crucial to ensure the meat is cooked safely and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This temperature is the recommended minimum for poultry and meat products to eliminate harmful bacteria and ensure they are safe to consume. Here's a detailed guide on how to monitor and achieve this temperature:

Preparation and Cooking: Start by placing the chicken fried steak in the air fryer basket. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. This initial high temperature will help seal in the juices and create a crispy exterior. Once preheated, carefully place the steak in the basket, ensuring it doesn't touch the heating element directly. Cook the steak for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping it halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your air fryer's power, so it's essential to monitor the temperature regularly.

Using a Meat Thermometer: To ensure accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, making sure it doesn't touch any bones or the air fryer basket. For chicken fried steak, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F. This temperature will ensure that any harmful bacteria present in the raw meat are destroyed. If the steak is not cooked to this temperature, continue cooking in 2-minute intervals, checking the temperature each time, until it reaches the desired level.

Resting and Serving: Once the steak reaches 160°F, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender steak. After resting, the steak's temperature will drop slightly, so it's essential to recheck the temperature to ensure it remains above 160°F. Finally, serve the chicken fried steak while it's still hot and enjoy the delicious, crispy result of your air fryer cooking!

Remember, using an air fryer for cooking steak provides a convenient and efficient method, but it's still essential to follow food safety guidelines. Always ensure that the steak is cooked thoroughly to the recommended internal temperature to guarantee a safe and delicious meal.

Browning: Use a cooking spray to enhance browning and crispiness

When cooking chicken fried steak in an air fryer, achieving a beautiful, golden-brown crust is essential to enhancing the overall texture and flavor. One effective technique to ensure optimal browning and crispiness is by using a cooking spray. Here's a detailed guide on how to utilize this simple yet powerful tool:

Choose the Right Cooking Spray: Opt for a high-smoke point cooking spray, such as avocado oil or canola oil spray. These oils have a higher temperature tolerance, ensuring that the spray doesn't break down or burn during the cooking process. This is crucial for achieving the desired browning effect.

Prepare the Steak: Start by patting the chicken fried steak dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface can hinder the browning process. Season the steak generously with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning blend. This step adds flavor and helps create a crispy exterior.

Spray and Cook: Lightly coat both sides of the steak with the cooking spray. You can use a brush or simply spray the steak directly. This initial spray helps to create a barrier between the steak and the air fryer basket, preventing excessive oil absorption. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and cook according to your desired doneness. The spray will help create a crisp, golden crust as the steak cooks.

Enhance the Process: For an even crispier texture, consider a two-step process. After the initial cooking time, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the heat to distribute evenly, ensuring a more uniform browning. Then, re-spray the steak lightly and return it to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Tips for Success: Ensure your air fryer is preheated to the desired temperature before adding the steak. This helps create a hot environment conducive to browning. Also, remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the steak and your air fryer's power, so always keep an eye on your steak to achieve the perfect level of crispiness.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with gravy, mashed potatoes, or a side of vegetables

When it comes to serving chicken fried steak, there are a few classic sides that complement the dish beautifully. Gravy is a must-have for many, as it adds a rich, savory element to the meal. You can make a simple pan gravy by deglazing the pan with chicken or vegetable broth after cooking the steak. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought gravy mix and add it to the pan juices for a quick and easy option. Gravy not only adds moisture to the steak but also provides a delicious sauce to drizzle over the meat.

Mashed potatoes are another popular side dish that pairs well with chicken fried steak. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes balances the crispy exterior of the steak, creating a satisfying contrast. You can keep the mashed potatoes simple with butter, salt, and pepper, or get creative by adding garlic, herbs, or even a touch of truffle oil for a more gourmet experience.

For a healthier side option, consider serving the steak with a variety of vegetables. Roasted or grilled vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and onions can provide a colorful and nutritious accompaniment. These vegetables can be seasoned with herbs, spices, and a drizzle of olive oil for a flavorful treat. Alternatively, a simple steamed or boiled vegetable like green beans or asparagus can also be a healthy and elegant side dish.

If you're looking to add some extra flavor and texture, consider serving the chicken fried steak with a side of crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon. These toppings can be fried in the air fryer along with the steak for a consistent cooking experience. The crispy texture and savory flavor of these sides will enhance the overall dining experience.

Remember, the key to a successful chicken fried steak meal is to ensure the steak is cooked to perfection and served with a variety of complementary sides. By offering gravy, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience for your guests.

Frequently asked questions