Table of Contents
Introduction
Chicken fried steak is probably one of the only hearty, comfy foods. A fancy of many houses, this classic Southern dish features tenderized beef covered in a crispy coating and rich gravy. It’s delicious, not to mention how great an option is for dinner for people on a budget. I’m going to share with you why chicken fried steak is an inexpensive meal choice and let you know how you can make chicken fried steak and even how you can make some inexpensive side dishes to go with it.
An understanding of Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is made from a sliced or cubed piece of large beef deep fried in breadcrumbs, with gravy of the fried stuff itself or a creamy gravy. The key ingredients include:
Beef: It usually cuts like a budget-friendly cut, like a cube steak.
Breading: The crispy coating is made up of flour and seasonings.
Gravy: This is what sets the dish over to the next level, made from the drippings.
Beyond nutrition, those who enjoy chicken fried steak also receive protein and can make it part of a healthier meal.
Why Chicken Fried Steak is an Idea on a Budget
Chicken fried steak is especially budget-friendly because of its cost of ingredients. Less expensive than most other meat cuts like cube steak or round steak. All the breading and gravy only use minimal ingredients so the cost per serving is quite good.
Chicken fried steak is also filling—it goes a long way. Assuming adult size, this single piece can satisfy an adult. Therefore, it’s an economical choice for feeding a family too. The dish is also versatile; you can make it to suit whatever you have at home, which will help you stay within your budget.
Ingredients
When you’re preparing your chicken fried steak, choosing the right ingredients can help you save even more! Here’s a detailed look at what you need and tips for shopping smart:
Meat
Cube Steak: This is the most popular cut for chicken fried steak. Tenderized beef it’s also pretty cheap. Cube steak goes on sale a lot at the grocery store, so make sure you check what you’re getting for your money. But if you still don’t see it, buy, don’t be put off, and ask your butcher, instead, for other budget-friendly cuts like round steak or sirloin. Here they can often recommend options that are as good tasting, if not better tasting, and less expensive.
Buying in Bulk: You can buy bulk on a good deal on cube steak or some other cut. That means you can freeze portion sized components to have on hand at all times (without paying full price for the main ingredient later).
Pantry Staples
Flour: The base of your steak’s bread contains all-purpose flour and you get it at a very low price. This is a great investment for lengthening your pansy.
Eggs: For the breeding process, eggs are a crucial ingredient and a versatile ingredient in many of the dishes being prepared. Buying a dozen isn’t an expense, and they can be used in many recipes other than just chicken fried steak.
Seasonings: Low-cost seasonings that you probably already have are salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, and can be used in many recipes. Often, it’s cheaper to buy these in bulk in larger containers, and they have a long shelf life anyway.
Vegetables and side dishes
Seasonal Vegetables: When the season of fresh produce is over, fresh produce is often cheaper. See what’s available at your local grocery store or farmers’ market to visit. Green beans, carrots, or broccoli are also nutritious and provide color to your meal.
Side Dish Ideas:
Mashed Potatoes: Potatoes are cheap and filling. With just butter and milk, you can turn them into a creamy version of yourself.
Green Beans: Green beans usually are inexpensive and can be steamed or sautéed in fresh or frozen form.
Simple Salad: Lettuce, tomato, and cucumber salad can be one of the simplest sides. Salad greens sell for sale, or use what’s on sale.
Farmers’ Markets and Discount Stores: These places can be fantastic places to buy fresh produce for cheap. In fact, you’re often able to get better deals with them than at regular grocery stores. It also supports your community when you buy locally!
With a plan and budget-friendly ingredients, you can make a great chicken fried steak dinner without spending a fortune.
Preparation Instructions
Prepare the Meat:
- Remove the cube steak from the packaging and dry it with a paper towel. That helps with the bread sticking.
- If your steaks are thick you can use a meat mallet to tenderize them some more. Place the steak between sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, then pound with your hand until it’s about half an inch thick.
Set Up Your Breading Station:
- You’ll need three bowls for the breading process:
- First bowl: Crack the two eggs and add 1 cup of milk. Combine whisk until completely combined.
- In the second bowl, pour in 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Salt, pepper, and any others you like as optional seasonings, like a teaspoon of garlic powder or paprika, can be applied to the flour.
Bread the Steaks:
- Dip the edge of one piece of steak in the egg mixture until it’s completely covered. Drip off any excess liquid if you have any.
- Then, put the steak in the bowl with the seasoned flour and transfer it to the plate. Dust it completely, pressing lightly to see how much flour sticks. Do this for all pieces of steak.
Heat the Oil:
- Add cooking oil to a large bowl to reach half an inch up the side if you’re using a skillet. Heat oil over medium-high heat. Pour a small pinch of flour into the oil, and if it sizzles, then it’s ready to cook.
Fry the Steaks:
- As the steaks are breaded carefully place them into the hot oil, not adding too many to the pan at one time. Then fry them for 3- 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
- To turn the steaks halfway, one has to use tongs. After frying set them aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil from them.
Make the Gravy:
- Put the remaining oil into the same skillet and reduce the heat to medium. For a roux, use about two tablespoons of flour and sprinkle it into the oil to start creating the roux. Mix it until it’s light brown in color, for about a minute, and then stir it continuously.
- Whisk in 1 cup of milk gradually while adding to prevent lumps. Then cover and cook until the gravy thickens, 3 to 5 minutes. S&p with salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, consider these budget-friendly side dishes:
Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing with chicken fried steak and easy to make.
Green Beans: To turn things healthy, fresh or frozen green beans sautéed with garlic are a good addition.
Coleslaw: Cheap cabbage and carrot side that can be made into a crunch.
Biscuits: Taking some time to make your own homemade biscuits, hand cut with a biscuit cutter is simple, and they go great on the gravy.
Think again; leftovers can be repurposed! Save any leftover steak for sandwiches or mojito salads the day after.
Conclusion
If you have never had chicken fried steak, you’re missing out on a great budget-wise dinner option. It’s great for families and easy to prepare with very simple ingredients. If you are anything like me, we encourage you to try this recipe at home and see what side dishes you can create with this week’s challenge. In the comments below, share your experience or variations of the same! Happy cooking!
