Quick & Crispy Classic Chicken Fried Steak Fingers Recipe

Chicken fried steak fingers bring comfort and nostalgia to your dinner table with a crispy, golden-brown crunch that beckons everyone closer.

Southern kitchens have long celebrated this hearty dish as a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Generations of home cooks perfected the technique of coating tender beef strips in seasoned flour and creating an irresistible crust.

Perfectly seasoned breading transforms simple meat into a delectable treat that sparks conversation and smiles around the table.

Crisp edges and juicy interiors make these fingers a delightful twist on traditional chicken fried steak.

Serve these savory morsels with creamy country gravy for a truly satisfying meal that connects you to classic American comfort food.

Come hungry and leave with a newfound appreciation for this timeless southern classic.

Classic Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

• Savor Southern Comfort: Dive into a classic Southern dish that brings pure, hearty satisfaction with every crispy bite.
• Master Quick Cooking: Learn an easy technique for creating restaurant-quality chicken fried steak fingers that impress family and friends without complicated steps.
• Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with different hot sauce levels and spice blends to make this recipe uniquely yours, turning a traditional meal into a personalized culinary adventure.
• Perfect Party Pleaser: Crowd-pleasing finger food that works brilliantly for game days, family gatherings, or casual weekend meals where everyone loves a crunchy, savory treat.

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

• Beef Steak Strips: Tender meat that serves as the main protein for the classic Southern-style dish.

• Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the meat and adds a tangy flavor.
• Hot Sauce: Provides a subtle spicy kick to the steak strips.
• Seasoned Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the meat.

• All-Purpose Flour: Creates a crispy, golden exterior for the steak fingers.
• Onion Powder, Garlic Powder: Add depth and savory notes to the coating.
• Black Pepper: Provides a mild heat and aromatic seasoning.

• Vegetable Oil: Enables deep-frying and creates a crisp texture.

• Milk: Creates a smooth and creamy base for the gravy.
• Flour: Helps thicken the gravy and create a rich consistency.
• Salt: Balances and enhances the gravy's flavor.

How to Cook Classic Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

Step 1: Create Zesty Marinade

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, and seasoned salt. Completely submerge steak strips in this flavor-packed liquid.

Cover and let the meat soak in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum taste explosion.

Step 2: Prepare Sizzling Oil Bath

Pour vegetable oil into a skillet, creating a generous layer.

Heat the oil over medium temperature until it’s ready for frying.

Step 3: Mix Crunchy Coating

• All-purpose flour
• Seasoned salt
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper

Blend these ingredients to create a tantalizing dry mixture.

Step 4: Dress the Meat

Pull steak strips from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip away. Roll each strip generously in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully slide 3-4 steak strips into the hot oil. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until they transform into a gorgeous golden-brown color with a delightful crispy exterior.

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb extra oil.

Step 6: Whip Up Creamy Gravy

Keep the skillet with oil drippings over medium heat.

Whisk in flour and cook until it turns light golden. Slowly incorporate milk, stirring continuously until the gravy reaches a rich, smooth consistency.

Season with salt and black pepper to your liking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Present the sizzling steak fingers alongside the homemade gravy for an irresistible dipping experience.

Watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement!

Tips to Nail Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

• Let steak strips soak in buttermilk mixture overnight to tenderize meat and enhance overall taste profile.
• Use a thermometer or test oil with a small piece of bread to ensure proper frying temperature around 350°F for perfect golden-brown crust.
• Place fried steak fingers on paper towels to absorb extra oil, keeping the coating crispy and preventing soggy texture.
• Mix multiple spices in flour coating to create depth of flavor and ensure every bite is packed with delicious taste.
• Remove excess marinade from steak strips before dredging to help flour mixture adhere better and create crunchier exterior.

Variations on Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

• Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Fried Steak Fingers: Add diced jalapeños to the flour mixture and mix hot chili powder into the marinade for an extra kick of heat.
• Ranch-Style Chicken Fried Steak Fingers: Incorporate ranch seasoning mix into the flour coating and serve with a creamy ranch dipping sauce for a zesty flavor profile.
• Southern BBQ Chicken Fried Steak Fingers: Brush the fried fingers with smoky BBQ sauce and sprinkle with crispy bacon bits before serving for a tangy southern-inspired version.
• Herb-Crusted Chicken Fried Steak Fingers: Mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley into the flour mixture for an aromatic and earthy coating that elevates the classic recipe.

Pairings for Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

• Pair Zesty Coleslaw: Create a tangy, crisp coleslaw with vinegar-based dressing to cut through the richness of the fried steak fingers. The cool, refreshing crunch balances the hearty, crispy texture perfectly.
• Craft Classic Beer Match: Select a cold, light American lager or amber ale that complements the savory, crispy coating. The beer's carbonation helps cleanse the palate between bites of the indulgent steak fingers.
• Boost with Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Serve smooth, buttery mashed potatoes alongside the steak fingers. The velvety potato side absorbs the delicious gravy and provides a comforting, classic Southern side dish that enhances the meal's overall richness.

Storage Advice for Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

• Store leftover chicken fried steak fingers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain crispiness.
• Wrap individual steak fingers tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange steak fingers on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even heating and restore crispiness.

FAQs

• Why marinate the steak in buttermilk?

Buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds a tangy flavor. The acidic nature of buttermilk breaks down tough muscle fibers, making the steak more tender and juicy.

• Can I use a different type of meat?

While chicken fried steak traditionally uses beef, you can substitute with pork or chicken strips. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar thin strips for even cooking.

• How do I know the oil is hot enough for frying?

Drop a small piece of flour mixture into the oil. If it sizzles and bubbles immediately, the oil is ready. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F.