Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich

The Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich is one of those comfort foods that can instantly transport you back to your childhood kitchen. I still remember the first time I had this dish at my grandma’s house. It was a lazy Sunday afternoon, and the aroma of frying steak wafted through the air, making my stomach rumble in anticipation. There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden brown steak, nestled between soft, fluffy buns. It’s messy, it’s delicious, and it’s just downright comforting. This sandwich is not just a meal; it’s a full-blown experience, filled with flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully.

Every bite of the Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich brings together the savory richness of the steak, the creaminess of the spicy mayo, and the crunch of fresh lettuce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this recipe brings people together. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded of the joy of sharing good food with family and friends. It’s a dish that evokes nostalgia and warmth, and honestly, who wouldn’t want that?

As we dive into the magic of this recipe, I can’t wait for you to try making your own Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich. It’s not only easy to whip up, but it also makes for a memorable meal. Trust me, once you serve it to your loved ones, they’ll be asking for seconds!

Main Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich

The ingredients in this Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each element plays an essential role, from the crispy fried steak that serves as the star of the show to the creamy spicy mayo that adds a kick. The combination of fresh lettuce and soft buns ties everything together, creating a perfect bite every time.

• ¾ cup mayonnaise: This forms the base of our spicy mayo, making every bite creamy delicious.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens up the mayonnaise, adding a refreshing touch.
• 1 teaspoon crushed garlic: Enhances the flavor profile, adding a savory depth.
• 1½ tablespoons sriracha or hot sauce: Provides that necessary heat, making the flavor come alive.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, bringing out all the flavors of the dish.
• 4 pre-tenderized cube steaks (about 1 pound): The main star of our sandwich, offering a rich, meaty texture.
• 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as a binding agent for our breading.
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture to the egg wash.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the crispy coating for our steaks.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: For seasoning the flour mixture.
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper: Adds more flavor to the breading.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the breading.
• ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a spicy kick to the coating.
• 1 cup canola oil for frying: Necessary for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (⅛ stick): Adds richness to the frying process.
• 4 hamburger buns: The perfect vehicle for our delicious filling.
• 4 leaves lettuce: Adds freshness and crunch to each bite.

Step by Step Guide for Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich

Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? The process of making the Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich is simple and straightforward, making it a great option for any cook. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying your own homemade masterpiece!

1. In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon crushed garlic, and 1½ tablespoons sriracha or hot sauce. Season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use. This spicy mayo will be the perfect topping for your sandwich.

2. Place each cube steak between sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the steaks until they’re less than ¼-inch thick. Lightly salt the steaks with Kosher salt. This step helps tenderize the meat and ensures it cooks quickly and evenly.

3. Preheat the oven to 200°F. Place a wire rack over a baking sheet in the oven to keep the cooked steaks warm while you assemble the sandwiches. This will help keep the steaks crispy as you work.

4. In one shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1 cup milk. In another dish, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 2 teaspoons ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg wash, and coat it again with the flour mixture. Set aside on a plate.

5. In a large frying pan, heat 1 cup canola oil to 350°F and add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Carefully lay a coated steak in the hot oil and fry for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the fried steak to the wire rack in the oven to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining steaks, ensuring not to crowd the pan.

6. Lightly toast the hamburger buns and spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on the bottom half of each burger bun. This step adds flavor and moisture to the sandwich.

7. Top each bun with a crispy chicken fried steak and a layer of fresh lettuce leaves. The lettuce adds a nice crunch and freshness to the dish.

8. Spread more spicy mayo on the inside of the top bun. Gently close the sandwich and serve immediately. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures!

Ways to Customize

While the Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich is delicious as it is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are some tips to customize this classic dish:

• Change the Protein: Use chicken fried chicken or even a veggie patty for a meatless version.
• Add Cheeses: Consider adding slices of cheese, such as American or pepper jack, for an added layer of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce directly to the mayo for an extra kick.
• Try Different Buns: Experiment with different types of buns, such as brioche, sourdough, or whole wheat.
• Extra Crunch: Add pickles or fried onions on top of the steak for added crunch and flavor.
• Seasoned Flour: Consider adding herbs or spices to the flour mixture for a unique twist.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich

Serving the Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with the right sides. Here are some ideas to make your serving experience even better:

• Classic Sides: Serve with crispy French fries or sweet potato fries to complement the richness of the sandwich.
• Coleslaw: A side of tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the flavors.
• Salads: A light garden salad can be a great accompaniment, offering a fresh contrast to the hearty sandwich.
• Occasions: This sandwich is perfect for casual lunches, picnics, or even game days, making it a versatile option.
• Garnishes: Consider garnishing with extra lettuce, tomatoes, or even a drizzle of extra spicy mayo on top for visual appeal.
• Presentation: Serve the sandwiches on a wooden board or platter for a rustic and inviting presentation.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the components separately in the fridge to maintain freshness.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug you can taste! With its crispy fried steak, creamy spicy mayo, and fresh lettuce, it’s a dish that brings joy to every table. I encourage you to try making this sandwich at home and share it with your loved ones. You’ll create memories that are as delicious as the food itself!

Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich

The ultimate comfort food, the Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich combines crispy fried steak with creamy spicy mayo and fresh lettuce. It's easy to make and perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• ¾ cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Crushed garlic
• 1½ tablespoons Sriracha or hot sauce
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 pieces Pre-tenderized cube steaks about 1 pound
• Kosher salt for seasoning
• 2 large Eggs beaten
• 1 cup Milk
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons Ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon Smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon Cayenne pepper
• 1 cup Canola oil for frying
• 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter (⅛ stick)
• 4 pieces Hamburger buns
• 4 leaves Lettuce

Instructions

 

• In a medium bowl, combine the ¾ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon crushed garlic, and 1½ tablespoons sriracha or hot sauce. Season with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
• Place each cube steak between sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the steaks until they're less than ¼-inch thick. Salt the steaks lightly with Kosher salt.
• Preheat the oven to 200°F. Place a wire rack over a baking sheet in the oven to keep the cooked steaks warm.
• In one shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1 cup milk. In another dish, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 2 teaspoons ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg wash, and coat it again with the flour mixture. Set aside on a plate.
• In a large frying pan, heat 1 cup canola oil to 350°F and add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. Carefully lay a coated steak in the hot oil and fry for about 2 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer the fried steak to the wire rack in the oven to keep warm.
• Lightly toast the hamburger buns and spread a layer of spicy mayo on the bottom half of each bun.
• Top each bun with a crispy chicken fried steak and a fresh lettuce leaf. Spread more spicy mayo on the inside of the top bun and gently close the sandwich.

Notes

• Storage: Store chicken fried steak sandwiches disassembled in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keyword Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich, Crispy Fried Steak, easy comfort food, Homemade Sandwich Recipe