The sizzling sound of chicken frying, the golden crust forming, and that irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen can only mean one thing: it’s time for Summer Chicken Fried Steak This dish brings together crispy, tender chicken and a rich gravy, creating a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to do a little happy dance in your kitchen.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What sides pair well with Summer Chicken Fried Steak?
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- How can I make the gravy thicker?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Picture this: you’re hosting a summer barbecue with friends and family, and everyone is eagerly waiting for dinner. You serve up this delightful plate of Summer Chicken Fried Steak, and suddenly it feels like a gourmet restaurant right in your backyard The laughter and compliments start pouring in, making you feel like the culinary superstar you always knew you were.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Summer Chicken Fried Steak recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings
- The combination of crunchy coating and savory gravy creates an unforgettable flavor experience
- It looks fabulous on any plate, making it an instant crowd-pleaser
- Plus, you can customize the spices to suit your taste or even use leftovers creatively
Every time I whip up this recipe, my family can’t help but rave about how delicious it is. They always ask for seconds (and sometimes thirds), which makes my heart smile
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well adjust based on your gathering size.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tanginess let the chicken soak for at least an hour.
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the crispy coating consider sifting it for extra fluffiness.
- Paprika: Adds color and flavor smoked paprika will elevate the dish further.
- Garlic Powder: Essential for a flavorful kick fresh garlic is also a great option.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple but vital seasonings never underestimate their importance
- Vegetable Oil: Use enough for frying peanut oil works wonderfully for its high smoking point.
- Chicken Broth: Makes the gravy rich homemade broth adds depth if you’re up for it
- Heavy Cream: For that luxurious gravy texture don’t skip this step
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Chicken: Start by soaking the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least an hour to enhance tenderness and flavor. The longer, the better
Create the Coating Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will give your chicken that irresistible crust.
Dredge the Chicken: Remove each chicken breast from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure adherence.
Heat Up the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom generously. Heat until shimmering this indicates it’s ready for frying.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully add coated chicken breasts to the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell divine
Make That Gravy: Once all chicken pieces are cooked and resting on a plate, drain excess oil from the skillet but leave about two tablespoons behind. Whisk in flour to create a roux before gradually adding chicken broth while stirring continuously until thickened.
Now you have not only made Summer Chicken Fried Steak but have also created memories that will last longer than any leftovers Enjoy every bite with family or friends seated around your table because nothing says love quite like sharing good food together
You Must Know
- Summer Chicken Fried Steak is a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a rich, savory gravy
- The smell wafting through your kitchen will remind you of sunny afternoons and family gatherings
- Perfect for casual dinners or a backyard barbecue, this dish is sure to impress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavor. Cook the chicken in hot oil until golden brown, then prepare the gravy using the drippings for a rich taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out buttermilk with yogurt for tangy flavor or add spices like paprika for extra kick. Toss in some garlic powder if you want a savory twist.
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, ensuring the crust stays crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal crispiness, use cold oil when frying your chicken
- Always allow excess batter to drip off before frying it helps prevent clumping
- Rest your fried chicken on a wire rack post-frying to keep it crispy while cooling
Sharing my first experience with Summer Chicken Fried Steak brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter blended with sizzling sounds and delicious smells, creating lasting bonds over food.
FAQ
What sides pair well with Summer Chicken Fried Steak?
Mashed potatoes and green beans make excellent sides for this comforting dish.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well just adjust cooking time for tender results.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
Add cornstarch mixed with cold water to achieve your desired consistency in the gravy.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Summer Chicken Fried Steak
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Summer Chicken Fried Steak is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners, this dish promises an explosion of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can create this gourmet experience right in your kitchen, making it the star of any gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika (smoked preferred)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Soak chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least one hour.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture until coated evenly.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy; drain on paper towels.
- For the gravy, remove excess oil from skillet, leaving about two tablespoons. Whisk in flour to make a roux and gradually add chicken broth while stirring until thickened. Stir in heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with gravy (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg