Introduction:
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a savory and satisfying dish that combines the comfort of southern cuisine with the convenience of finger foods. Chicken Fried Steak Fingers are a delightful twist on the traditional steak preparation, offering a crispy, golden exterior paired with tender, juicy meat inside. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a hearty and delicious meal. Let’s dive into how to create this irresistible dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of cube steak, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak Strips:
- Begin by seasoning the cube steak strips with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Ensure each strip is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Dredge the Steak Strips:
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls. Place the all-purpose flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs in the third.
- Take each seasoned steak strip and dredge it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the strip thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Steak Strips:
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the breaded steak strips into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Fry the steak strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, transfer the steak strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the crispy Chicken Fried Steak Fingers on a platter and serve them hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
- These steak fingers are perfect for sharing as an appetizer or serving as a main course with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
Conclusion:
With their irresistible crunch and juicy tenderness, Chicken Fried Steak Fingers are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to indulge in a taste sensation that’s truly finger-licking good!
Serving Tips:
- Presentation is Key: Arrange the Chicken Fried Steak Fingers on a platter in an appealing manner, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside an array of dipping sauces such as creamy ranch, tangy barbecue, zesty honey mustard, or spicy buffalo sauce to complement the flavors of the steak fingers.
- Accompaniments: Pair the steak fingers with classic southern sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Garnishes: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the steak fingers just before serving to brighten up the flavors and cut through the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the Chicken Fried Steak Fingers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the steak fingers on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the steak fingers for later use, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen steak fingers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating according to the instructions above. Avoid thawing them at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
- Crispiness: While reheating, placing the steak fingers on a wire rack over a baking sheet can help maintain their crispiness by allowing air to circulate around them.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Chicken Fried Steak Fingers remain deliciously crispy and flavorful, whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the fryer or reheating them for a quick and satisfying meal later on.
- Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
- While cube steak is traditionally used for Chicken Fried Steak Fingers, you can certainly experiment with other cuts of meat such as chicken breast or pork loin. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Can I bake the steak fingers instead of frying them?
- Yes, if you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the steak fingers in the oven. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded steak fingers on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- How do I prevent the breading from falling off during frying?
- To ensure that the breading adheres well to the steak fingers, make sure to pat the meat dry before dredging it in the flour. Additionally, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly onto the meat and allowing the breaded strips to rest for a few minutes before frying can help the breading adhere better.
- What can I do with leftover Chicken Fried Steak Fingers?
- Leftover steak fingers can be refrigerated for 2-3 days or frozen for longer storage. They make a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, or wraps. You can also chop them up and use them as toppings for pizzas or pasta dishes, or simply reheat them and enjoy them as a quick and tasty snack.