Chicken fried steak, a classic comfort food dish that never fails to satisfy our cravings. This mouth-watering meal consists of a tenderized steak coated in a crispy, golden-brown breading, typically served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a drizzle of rich gravy. But what else can you serve with chicken fried steak to elevate this beloved dish to new heights? In this article, we’ll explore the best sides, desserts, and beverages to pair with chicken fried steak, ensuring a well-rounded and delicious meal that will leave your taste buds singing.
Classic Sides to Serve with Chicken Fried Steak
When it comes to traditional sides, there are a few staples that pair perfectly with chicken fried steak. These classic combinations will transport you back to a time when comfort food was king.
Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Mashed potatoes are a timeless favorite that complements chicken fried steak beautifully. The creamy texture and subtle flavor of mashed potatoes provide a soothing contrast to the crispy, savory breading of the steak. To take your mashed potatoes to the next level, try adding some grated cheddar cheese, diced herbs, or a dollop of sour cream.
Country-Style Green Beans: A Southern Staple
Country-style green beans are a popular side dish in the Southern United States, and for good reason. These tender, slightly sweet beans are cooked with a hint of smoky bacon and a touch of black pepper, creating a flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the rich, meaty taste of chicken fried steak.
Creamy Coleslaw: A Refreshing Contrast
A cool, creamy coleslaw can provide a delightful contrast to the warm, comforting flavors of chicken fried steak. Made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices, coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to the dish. For an extra kick, try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of paprika.
Modern Twists: Unique Sides to Serve with Chicken Fried Steak
While classic sides are always a winner, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up and try something new. Here are a few modern twists on traditional sides that pair surprisingly well with chicken fried steak.
Roasted Vegetables: A Healthy, Flavorful Option
Roasted vegetables are a tasty and nutritious way to add some color and variety to your meal. Try roasting carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The caramelized flavors of the roasted vegetables will complement the savory breading of the steak beautifully.
Sautéed Mushrooms: An Earthy, Umami Flavor
Sautéed mushrooms are a great way to add an earthy, umami flavor to your meal. Try using a variety of mushrooms, such as button, cremini, or shiitake, and sauté them with some butter, garlic, and thyme. The rich, meaty flavor of the mushrooms will pair perfectly with the crispy breading of the steak.
Garlic and Herb Rice: A Flavorful, Aromatic Side
Garlic and herb rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken fried steak. Made with sautéed garlic, chopped herbs, and a hint of lemon zest, this side dish adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the meal.
Desserts to Serve with Chicken Fried Steak
No meal is complete without a sweet treat to round out the flavors. Here are a few desserts that pair surprisingly well with chicken fried steak.
Classic Apple Pie: A Timeless Favorite
Apple pie is a classic dessert that pairs perfectly with the comforting flavors of chicken fried steak. The sweet, flaky crust and tender apples provide a delightful contrast to the savory breading of the steak.
Pecan Pie: A Nutty, Sweet Treat
Pecan pie is a popular dessert in the Southern United States, and for good reason. The nutty, caramelized flavor of the pecans pairs beautifully with the rich, meaty taste of chicken fried steak.
Banana Pudding: A Creamy, Sweet Delight
Banana pudding is a creamy, sweet dessert that pairs surprisingly well with chicken fried steak. Made with sliced bananas, vanilla pudding, and a sprinkle of nutmeg, this dessert adds a bright, cheerful flavor to the meal.
Beverages to Serve with Chicken Fried Steak
No meal is complete without a refreshing beverage to wash it down. Here are a few drinks that pair perfectly with chicken fried steak.
Sweet Tea: A Southern Staple
Sweet tea is a classic beverage in the Southern United States, and for good reason. The sweet, refreshing flavor of the tea pairs beautifully with the savory breading of the steak.
Soft Drinks: A Fizzy, Fun Option
Soft drinks like cola, root beer, or ginger ale can add a fun, fizzy element to the meal. Try pairing your chicken fried steak with a glass of creamy root beer or a spicy ginger ale.
Craft Beer: A Hoppy, Sophisticated Option
Craft beer is a great way to add a sophisticated, hoppy flavor to the meal. Try pairing your chicken fried steak with a crisp, refreshing lager or a rich, malty ale.
Conclusion
Chicken fried steak is a beloved comfort food dish that can be elevated to new heights with the right sides, desserts, and beverages. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or something new and adventurous, there’s a perfect pairing out there for you. So go ahead, get creative, and serve up a meal that will leave your taste buds singing.
| Classic Sides | Modern Twists | Desserts | Beverages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Roasted Vegetables | Classic Apple Pie | Sweet Tea |
| Country-Style Green Beans | Sautéed Mushrooms | Pecan Pie | Soft Drinks |
| Creamy Coleslaw | Garlic and Herb Rice | Banana Pudding | Craft Beer |
By following these pairing suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, well-rounded meal that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling full and content. So go ahead, get cooking, and serve up a meal that will make your taste buds sing.
What is Chicken Fried Steak and How is it Prepared?
Chicken Fried Steak is a popular American dish that consists of a thinly sliced cut of beef, usually top round or top sirloin, that is breaded and fried. The preparation of Chicken Fried Steak typically involves pounding the beef cut to make it thinner, dredging it in a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and then frying it in a skillet with oil until it is golden brown and crispy.
The key to a great Chicken Fried Steak is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcook the steak. The breading should be crispy and golden, while the steak itself should be cooked to the desired level of doneness. Some recipes may also include additional seasonings or spices to add flavor to the dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, Chicken Fried Steak is a relatively easy dish to prepare and can be served with a variety of sides to make a complete meal.
What are Some Classic Side Dishes that Go Well with Chicken Fried Steak?
When it comes to serving Chicken Fried Steak, there are several classic side dishes that are commonly paired with this popular American dish. Some of the most popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, and fried okra. These sides offer a comforting and familiar complement to the crispy, savory flavor of the Chicken Fried Steak. Mashed potatoes, in particular, are a popular choice as they provide a creamy, filling contrast to the crunchy exterior of the steak.
Other classic side dishes that go well with Chicken Fried Steak include green beans, corn on the cob, and coleslaw. These sides offer a lighter, fresher contrast to the richness of the steak and can help to round out the meal. Whether you’re serving Chicken Fried Steak in a casual, down-home setting or in a more formal dining environment, these classic side dishes are sure to be a hit with your guests.
Can I Serve Chicken Fried Steak with More Adventurous Side Dishes?
While classic side dishes like mashed potatoes and creamed spinach are always a safe bet, you can also serve Chicken Fried Steak with more adventurous side dishes to add some excitement to the meal. Some options might include roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or broccoli, which offer a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the crispy steak. You could also try serving the steak with a side of sweet potato fries or onion rings for a more playful take on the classic meal.
Other adventurous side dishes that might pair well with Chicken Fried Steak include grilled or sautéed mushrooms, which add an earthy flavor to the dish, or a side of spicy collard greens, which offer a bold, tangy contrast to the richness of the steak. Whatever side dish you choose, the key is to find a balance of flavors and textures that complements the Chicken Fried Steak without overpowering it.
What are Some Good Options for Serving Chicken Fried Steak in a Formal Setting?
While Chicken Fried Steak is often associated with casual, down-home cooking, it can also be served in a more formal setting with a few tweaks to the presentation and accompaniments. One option is to serve the steak with a more elegant side dish, such as roasted asparagus or sautéed baby bell peppers, which add a touch of sophistication to the meal. You could also try serving the steak with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or creamed spinach, which offer a rich, indulgent flavor that’s perfect for a special occasion.
To add an extra touch of elegance to the dish, consider serving the Chicken Fried Steak on a decorative platter or individual plates, garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers. You could also offer a selection of artisanal breads or rolls on the side, which provide a nice textural contrast to the crispy steak. Whatever options you choose, the key is to find a balance of flavors and presentation that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
Can I Serve Chicken Fried Steak at a Buffet or Family-Style Meal?
Chicken Fried Steak is a great option for a buffet or family-style meal, as it’s easy to serve in large quantities and can be paired with a variety of sides to suit different tastes. To serve Chicken Fried Steak at a buffet, consider setting up a toppings bar with options like creamed spinach, mashed potatoes, and fried okra, which allow guests to customize their own plates. You could also offer a selection of sauces, such as country gravy or BBQ sauce, which add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
When serving Chicken Fried Steak family-style, consider dividing the steak into smaller portions and serving it with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, and coleslaw. This allows everyone to serve themselves and try a little bit of everything. To add an extra touch of warmth and hospitality to the meal, consider serving the Chicken Fried Steak in a large, decorative skillet or Dutch oven, which adds a cozy, homespun feel to the table.
What are Some Good Options for Serving Chicken Fried Steak at a Brunch or Breakfast Meal?
While Chicken Fried Steak is often associated with dinner, it can also be served at a brunch or breakfast meal with a few tweaks to the accompaniments. One option is to serve the steak with a side of eggs, such as scrambled or fried eggs, which add a rich, savory flavor to the dish. You could also try serving the steak with a side of pancakes or waffles, which provide a sweet, indulgent contrast to the crispy steak.
Other options for serving Chicken Fried Steak at a brunch or breakfast meal include serving it with a side of hash browns or home fries, which add a crispy, satisfying texture to the dish. You could also try serving the steak with a side of biscuits and gravy, which offer a comforting, down-home flavor that’s perfect for a weekend brunch. Whatever options you choose, the key is to find a balance of flavors and textures that complements the Chicken Fried Steak without overpowering it.
Can I Make Chicken Fried Steak Ahead of Time and Reheat it Later?
While Chicken Fried Steak is best served fresh, it can be made ahead of time and reheated later with a few precautions. One option is to bread and fry the steak ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve. To reheat the steak, simply place it in a hot oven (around 400°F) for a few minutes, or until it’s crispy and golden brown.
Another option is to cook the steak ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve. To reheat the steak, simply place it in a hot skillet with a little bit of oil until it’s crispy and golden brown. Whatever method you choose, the key is to make sure the steak is heated through to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety. You could also try reheating the steak in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, which offer a convenient and hands-off way to reheat the dish.