Chicken Fried Steak Bites: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Perfection

Chicken Fried Steak Bites: Prepare to meet your new favorite appetizer! Imagine the crispy, golden-brown perfection of classic chicken fried steak, but in perfectly poppable, bite-sized pieces. These aren’t just any ordinary snack; they’re a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for more.

Chicken fried steak, a beloved comfort food, has roots deep in Southern American cuisine. Some believe it evolved from German Wiener Schnitzel, brought to the US by European immigrants and adapted with readily available ingredients. Whatever its exact origin, it quickly became a staple, offering a hearty and satisfying meal for generations.

What makes chicken fried steak bites so irresistible? It’s the delightful contrast of textures – the crunchy, seasoned breading giving way to tender, juicy steak. The savory flavor, often enhanced with a creamy gravy, is simply divine. Plus, these bite-sized versions are incredibly convenient for parties, game days, or even a fun weeknight dinner. They’re easy to eat, fun to share, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food in miniature form!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Steak Bites:
• 1.5 lbs Beef Round Steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 cup Milk
• 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tbsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste
• Vegetable Oil (for frying)
• For the Cream Gravy:
• 1/4 cup Reserved Frying Oil (from cooking the steak bites)
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 3 cups Milk
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup Heavy Cream (for extra richness)

Preparing the Steak Bites:

1. Cut the Steak: Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef round steak. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the steak into approximately 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. In the third dish, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. This is your seasoned flour mixture.
3. Bread the Steak Bites: Take each steak bite and dredge it thoroughly in the plain flour, making sure it’s completely coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured steak bite into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Finally, dredge the steak bite in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to help the flour adhere. Repeat this process for all the steak bites. This double coating is key to getting that crispy, golden-brown crust we all love!

Frying the Steak Bites:

1. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. You’ll need enough oil to reach a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature, or test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it. If the bread browns quickly and bubbles vigorously, the oil is ready. Be careful not to overheat the oil, as it can smoke and burn.
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully add the breaded steak bites to the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, less crispy steak bites. Fry the steak bites for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, or slightly higher if you prefer them more well-done.
3. Drain and Repeat: Remove the fried steak bites from the oil using a slotted spoon or spider and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process with the remaining steak bites, ensuring the oil temperature remains consistent.
4. Reserve the Oil: After frying all the steak bites, carefully pour off all but about 1/4 cup of the frying oil. Be very careful when handling hot oil! You’ll need this reserved oil to make the cream gravy.

Making the Cream Gravy:

1. Create the Roux: Place the skillet with the reserved frying oil back over medium heat. Add the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to the hot oil and whisk constantly for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture forms a smooth paste (a roux) and turns a light golden-brown color. This step is crucial for a flavorful gravy. Don’t let the roux burn!
2. Whisk in the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, ensuring that each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This will help prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until all the milk is added and the gravy is smooth.
3. Season and Simmer: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the gravy. Bring the gravy to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add Cream (Optional): If you want an extra rich and creamy gravy, stir in the heavy cream during the last minute of simmering.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or garlic powder to suit your preferences.

Serving the Chicken Fried Steak Bites:

1. Plate and Serve: Arrange the crispy chicken fried steak bites on a serving platter. Generously spoon the creamy gravy over the steak bites.
2. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken fried steak bites immediately while they are hot and crispy. They are delicious on their own as an appetizer or snack, or as a main course served with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or your favorite side dishes.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Steak Bites:

• Pound the Steak: For even more tender steak bites, you can lightly pound the steak with a meat mallet before cutting it into cubes. This will help to tenderize the meat and ensure it cooks evenly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the steak bites, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure they get crispy.
• Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent: Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is key to achieving perfectly fried steak bites. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
• Make Ahead: You can bread the steak bites ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat, or try using different herbs and spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.
• Gravy Variations: For a different flavor profile, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the cream gravy. You can also use chicken broth or beef broth instead of milk for a richer, more savory gravy.
• Serving Suggestions: Chicken fried steak bites are incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks for dipping, or as a main course with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and corn. They’re also great in sliders or on top of a salad.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store leftover chicken fried steak bites and cream gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat the steak bites, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a similar result. Reheat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little milk or broth to thin it out if it has thickened too much.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken fried steak bites. Let them cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer the frozen steak bites to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Freezing the gravy is not recommended as it can change the texture.

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it! I truly believe these Chicken Fried Steak Bites are about to become a new favorite in your household. They’re quick, they’re easy, and they deliver that classic comfort food flavor in a fun, bite-sized package. What’s not to love?

Think of these little nuggets of deliciousness as the perfect appetizer for game night, a crowd-pleasing snack for parties, or even a satisfying main course when paired with the right sides. The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to a tender, juicy interior that’s simply irresistible. And the best part? You can customize them to your heart’s content!

For a truly decadent experience, serve these Chicken Fried Steak Bites with a generous dollop of creamy gravy. You can use a classic white gravy, a peppery brown gravy, or even get creative with a mushroom gravy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try dipping them in a spicy aioli or a tangy honey mustard sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Looking for some serving suggestions? I highly recommend pairing these bites with creamy mashed potatoes and your favorite steamed vegetable for a complete and comforting meal. Alternatively, you could serve them alongside a fresh salad for a lighter, yet equally satisfying, option. They’re also fantastic served on slider buns with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce for a mini-sandwich experience.

And speaking of variations, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings in the breading. A pinch of cayenne pepper will add a touch of heat, while a blend of Italian herbs will give them a more savory flavor. You could even try using different types of steak, such as sirloin or flank steak, depending on your preference. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can try baking these bites instead of frying them. Simply coat them in the breading as directed and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. While they won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version, they’ll still be incredibly delicious and a much healthier option.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade Chicken Fried Steak Bites for yourself. I know you’ll love them as much as I do!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some culinary magic. I promise you, this recipe is a winner.

Once you’ve made these delectable bites, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications to the recipe? What dipping sauces did you try? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your Chicken Fried Steak Bites adventures!