Kickstart your culinary adventure with this air fryer chicken fried steak recipe that promises all the crunch without the guilt of deep frying. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving some comfort food without the mess.
Why This Recipe Works
- The air fryer gives you that coveted crispy coating without submerging your steak in oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying.
- Using cube steak ensures tenderness and quick cooking, perfect for the air fryer’s rapid air circulation.
- The combination of flour and breadcrumbs in the coating provides the perfect texture and flavor, locking in the juices of the steak.
- It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences with different spices and herbs.
- Cleanup is a breeze since you’re not dealing with a greasy stovetop or splattered oil.
Ingredients
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Three shallow bowls (for flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Coating Stations
In the first shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Place the breadcrumbs in the third bowl. This setup ensures a smooth workflow when coating your steaks. Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Step 2: Coat the Steaks
Dip each cube steak first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Tip: Let the coated steaks sit for a few minutes to help the coating stick better during cooking.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for about 3 minutes. This ensures the steaks start cooking immediately for the crispiest results. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cook the Steaks
Place the coated steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook at 375°F for 10 minutes, then flip the steaks and cook for another 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Tip: Check the steaks at the 5-minute mark to ensure even cooking and adjust time as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the steaks rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes and gravy, for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their air fryer chicken fried steak, consider marinating the cube steaks in buttermilk for a few hours before coating. This not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a subtle tanginess. Another pro tip is to use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs and reduce the amount of oil spray. Always ensure your air fryer is not overcrowded to promote even air circulation and cooking. Lastly, experimenting with different seasonings in your flour mixture can lead to exciting flavor profiles.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy version.
- Herb Infused: Mix in 1 tbsp of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme into the breadcrumbs for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy crust.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free alternatives.
- Low-Carb: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! While cube steak is traditional for chicken fried steak due to its tenderness, you can use round steak or even chicken breasts pounded thin. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as thicker cuts may require longer in the air fryer.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Ensuring your steaks are properly dried before coating and letting them sit after breading helps the coating adhere better. Also, avoid flipping the steaks too early during cooking; wait until the coating has set.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the steaks and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can actually help the coating stick better. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before air frying.
Summary
This air fryer chicken fried steak recipe delivers all the crispy, juicy goodness you crave with a fraction of the oil. It’s quick, easy, and customizable to suit any taste. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.
