Once the sun shines brighter and the air gets warmer, itβs time to indulge in some delicious Summer Chicken Fried Steak. Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden-brown crust that gives way to juicy, tender chicken, all drizzled with creamy gravy. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, beckoning everyone in the vicinity for a taste. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those lazy summer afternoons when you want to enjoy comfort food without feeling weighed down.
In my house, Summer Chicken Fried Steak isnβt just food itβs a celebration. It conjures up memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and stories shared over heaping plates of deliciousness. Whether itβs a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this dish always brings everyone together with its irresistible charm and vibrant flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Summer Chicken Fried Steak is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends
- Its rich and savory flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds
- The visual appeal of crispy chicken topped with creamy gravy makes this dish an eye-catcher at any table
- Versatile enough to be served with mashed potatoes or fresh veggies, it fits any occasion perfectly
One sunny afternoon, I served this dish at a family reunion and watched as my cousinβs face lit up after taking his first bite. The joy in his eyes was priceless as he declared it the best thing he had ever tasted
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, adjusting based on how many hungry mouths are at the table.
- All-Purpose Flour: This will give the chicken that crave-worthy crispy coating that you just canβt resist.
- Buttermilk: Use buttermilk for marinating it tenderizes the chicken and adds a delightful tanginess.
- Eggs: These help the flour adhere better to the chicken for that perfect crust.
- Seasoning Blend: A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika enhances flavor feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Cooking Oil: Vegetable oil works well it needs to be heated until hot for frying.
- Milk and Butter: Essential for creating that creamy gravy that brings everything together in harmony.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it Together
Preparing the Chicken: Start by marinating your boneless skinless chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least an hour. This step ensures juicy chicken with incredible flavor.
Breading Station Setup: Create your breading station by placing flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned flour in separate shallow dishes. This makes coating easier and less messy.
Coat Your Chicken: Remove the chicken from buttermilk and coat each piece in flour first, then dip into eggs, and finally back into flour. Ensure every inch is covered this is where the magic happens
Heat Oil for Frying: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add cooking oil until itβs about half an inch deep. To test if itβs ready, drop a small piece of bread if it sizzles immediately, youβre good to go
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place coated chicken into hot oil without crowding the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Make Creamy Gravy: Once fried chicken is done and resting on paper towels, use leftover oil to create your gravy by mixing in flour and gradually adding milk until you reach desired consistency.
By following these steps closely and perhaps singing along to your favorite tunes youβll create a meal that brings smiles straight from your kitchen
And there you have it With these simple steps and hearty ingredients, you will serve up a plateful of Summer Chicken Fried Steak that will not only satisfy hunger but also warm hearts around your dinner table
You Must Know
- This Summer Chicken Fried Steak recipe is perfect for warm weather
- The crispy coating and tender meat pair beautifully with fresh salads or seasonal veggies
- Itβs a delightful twist on a classic, sure to impress at summer gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning your chicken and letting it rest for 30 minutes to absorb flavors. While this happens, prepare your breading station for efficient frying, ensuring you have everything ready before the cooking begins.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular flour for whole wheat or almond flour for a healthier twist. You can also experiment with spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to give it a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use an oven at 350Β°F until heated through to maintain that crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- A well-seasoned chicken is key let it marinate long enough to soak up flavors
- Use a thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F for safety
- Donβt overcrowd the pan while frying β this prevents that beautiful golden crust
The first time I made this dish, my friends declared it their new favorite Seeing their happy faces as they devoured every bite reminded me why I love cooking.
FAQ
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for Summer Chicken Fried Steak?
Yes, turkey works wonderfully and adds its own delicious flavor to the dish.
What sides pair well with Summer Chicken Fried Steak?
Fresh coleslaw or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes and complement the meal perfectly.
Can I freeze leftovers of Summer Chicken Fried Steak?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers Just ensure they are properly sealed in an airtight container.

Summer Chicken Fried Steak
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Summer Chicken Fried Steak recipe. Juicy, tender chicken is coated in a crispy, golden crust and generously drizzled with creamy gravy. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy family dinners, this dish brings everyone together with its irresistible flavors. Prepare to savor every bite of this delicious classic thatβs both easy to make and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 1 hour for flavor and tenderness.
- Set up a breading station with separate shallow dishes for flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned flour (flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper).
- Coat each piece of marinated chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then return to flour until fully covered.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Fry the chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- For the gravy, use leftover oil from frying; mix in flour and gradually add milk until desired consistency is achieved.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with gravy (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for added depth. To make it healthier, substitute regular flour with whole wheat or almond flour. Serve with fresh coleslaw or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.