When you think of summer, what comes to mind? Bright sunshine, backyard barbecues, and the irresistible aroma of fried chicken wafting through the air. Now imagine that golden-brown, crispy coating giving way to tender, juicy chicken beneath. That’s the magic of summer chicken fried steak. The first bite is an explosion of flavors; it’s savory, it’s crunchy, and it transports you to a warm summer evening with friends and family.
This dish isn’t just about great taste; it’s wrapped in memories of laughter-filled dinners where everyone fights over the last piece. Summer chicken fried steak is perfect for those lazy Sundays or impromptu gatherings where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. The combination of crispy comfort food and fresh summer vibes makes this recipe a must-try.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This summer chicken fried steak offers delightful crunch and juicy tenderness in every bite
- Quick to prepare, it becomes a family favorite fast
- With vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas, it’s visually stunning on any table
- Perfect for casual get-togethers or weeknight dinners, it’s versatile enough for any occasion
I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends; their faces lit up with joy as they took their first bites. It was a hit that turned into a tradition at our summer cookouts.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 pieces for a satisfying meal that feeds your hungry crowd.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for that crisp coating; don’t forget to season it well!
Buttermilk: Adds richness and moisture; let the chicken soak for extra tenderness.
Paprika: A sprinkle brings bold flavor—smoked paprika adds an exciting depth.
Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential for enhancing flavors; adjust according to taste.
Vegetable Oil: For frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point for best results.
Fresh Herbs (optional): Chopped parsley or chives add a burst of color and freshness when garnishing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Get ready to dive into the world of crispy goodness with these steps!
Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound them gently until they reach about half an inch thick for even cooking.
Soak in Buttermilk: In a bowl, pour buttermilk over the flattened chicken. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes—the longer, the better! This will ensure juicy meat.
Mix the Coating: In another bowl, combine flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed; this is your secret weapon for flavor!
Dredge and Fry: Take each piece of chicken from buttermilk and dredge it into the flour mixture until fully coated. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering—carefully lay each piece in.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. The aroma will be heavenly! Transfer cooked pieces to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve Hot!: Plate your beautiful summer chicken fried steak with fresh herbs on top. Pair it with sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a complete meal experience!
Now go ahead and enjoy your delicious creation while basking in those summer vibes! Your family will be begging for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
You Must Know
- This delightful Summer Chicken Fried Steak is perfect for gatherings, offering crispy goodness with a juicy center
- The aroma of sizzling seasoned chicken will draw everyone to the kitchen
- Serve it with a refreshing salad for a complete summer meal that’s sure to impress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken, then dredge it in flour while heating oil in a skillet. Fry each piece until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap traditional seasonings with your favorites, or add herbs like rosemary or thyme. You can also try using buttermilk for marinating for an extra tender bite.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, maintaining that delightful crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy chicken, use a thermometer to ensure oil reaches 350°F before frying
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the oil hot and ensures even cooking
- Let fried chicken rest on a cooling rack instead of paper towels to maintain crunchiness
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; they couldn’t stop raving about it! My cousin even asked if I could cook it every Sunday.
FAQ
What is Summer Chicken Fried Steak?
Summer Chicken Fried Steak is crispy fried chicken coated in seasoned flour, perfect for warm weather meals.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Try using pork or turkey for different flavors and textures.
How do I make the dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for an extra kick!
Summer Chicken Fried Steak
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the joy of summer with this crispy, juicy Summer Chicken Fried Steak. Perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings friends and family together. With its crunchy coating and tender chicken, it’s ideal for backyard barbecues or cozy dinners. Let the delightful aromas fill your kitchen as you whip up a meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp paprika (smoked for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to about ½ inch thick.
- Soak in Buttermilk: In a bowl, soak the pounded chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix the Coating: In another bowl, combine flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge and Fry: Remove chicken from buttermilk; dredge in the flour mixture. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then fry each piece for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve Hot: Drain cooked chicken on paper towels or a cooling rack; serve garnished with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of fried chicken (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
