Chicken Fried Steak Bites

Oh, the delight of a family gathering! Last weekend, I hosted one at my place, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of a culinary adventure. You know how it goes—everyone mills about the kitchen, grazing on appetizers, sharing stories, and of course, dipping into the drinks. But the pièce de résistance of the day? My Chicken Fried Steak Bites. Just thinking about them makes my mouth water again. These little morsels were the talk of the day, mostly because of their irresistibly crispy exterior that hides juicy, flavorful meat inside.

Now, I’ve got a long-standing tradition with these bites. They remind me of the first time we had a family reunion at my grandmother’s house. She was quite the cook, and I distinctly remember her kitchen filled with the aroma of her signature fried dishes. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that nostalgic crunch and flavor in my own kitchen. After a fair bit of trial and error, I finally nailed it with this recipe. It’s easy to whip up, perfect for a crowd, and has a way of magically disappearing moments after it’s served.

The secret lies in the double coating of seasoned flour. Oh, and a dash of hot sauce in the buttermilk-egg bath that gives it a slight kick—the kind that makes everyone say, “What’s in this?” Next thing you know, they’re reaching for another bite. It’s all about the balance of spices, and trust me, the Slap Ya Mama® seasoning is a game-changer. This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also sparks a sense of camaraderie as everyone gathers around to enjoy the hearty bites.

If you’ve got a family event coming up or just a casual night in, this recipe is a must-try. The process is straightforward, the ingredients are likely already in your pantry, and the end result? Well, let’s just say you’ll be the star of the show. So go ahead, give these Chicken Fried Steak Bites a whirl, and watch them become a staple in your family gatherings just as they have in mine. Ready to dive into this delightful dish?

How to Make Chicken Fried Steak Bites

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Ingredients:

• 6 medium cube steaks, cut into 1 1/2 inch squares
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided
• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
• 1-2 cups vegetable oil

Directions:

1. Heat an electric skillet or a large cast iron pan to 375°F and pour in the oil.
2. Cut the cube steaks into 1 1/2-inch squares and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb moisture, layering more paper towels between the steak bites.
3. While the oil heats, place 1 1/2 cups of flour into a large zip-top bag. In a separate bag, mix the remaining 1 1/2 cups of flour with all the spices and seasonings. Seal and shake to combine.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
5. Once the oil is ready, pat the steak bites dry once more. Coat about 10 bites in the plain flour by shaking them in the first bag. Dip them into the egg mixture and then coat them in the seasoned flour.
6. Fry the steak bites in the skillet until they are golden brown on both sides.
7. After frying, place the bites on a paper towel-lined plate and keep them warm in a 175°F oven while you cook the remaining batches.
8. Repeat the coating and frying process for the rest of the steak bites.
9. Enjoy these crispy bites with a side of your favorite gravy!

No Buttermilk? Try These Alternatives

If you’re out of buttermilk, you can use a cup of milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For a non-dairy option, almond milk with a bit of lemon juice works great too. This way, you won’t miss out on the tangy flavor essential for this recipe!

Best Ways to Store Chicken Fried Steak Bites

To keep your Chicken Fried Steak Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. If you prefer freezing them, wrap each bite in foil and place them in a zip-top bag for up to a month. Thaw before reheating.

From Sides to Drinks: What Complements Chicken Fried Steak Bites

For a complete meal, serve these bites with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp garden salad. Pair them with a cool, refreshing lemonade or a light beer for a balanced flavor experience. A side of coleslaw or pickles can add a nice tangy contrast to the savory bites.

Top Techniques for Cooking Chicken Fried Steak Bites

To master these bites, ensure your oil is at the right temperature before starting. Use a thermometer to maintain 375°F, which ensures a golden crust. Drying the steak pieces thoroughly before coating makes all the difference in achieving a crispy texture. Also, coat right before frying to avoid sogginess.

Using What’s in Season for Chicken Fried Steak Bites

In summer, pair your steak bites with fresh corn on the cob or a lively tomato salad. During winter, serve them with hearty roasted root vegetables. For an autumn twist, add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon to the seasoned flour for a warm, spicy note.

FAQs:

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cube steaks with round steak or sirloin tips if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to tenderize them adequately to achieve the signature texture. This ensures that your bites remain juicy and not tough.

What kind of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil is recommended for frying these steak bites due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. If you prefer, you can use canola or peanut oil as well. They all provide a good crisp without overpowering the taste of the steak.

How do I know when the bites are cooked through?

The bites are ready when they achieve a nice golden brown color on both sides. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side. To be certain, you can check the internal temperature of the steak which should reach 145°F for safety.

Can these steak bites be baked instead of fried?

While baking won’t give you the same crispy texture as frying, you can certainly bake them. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the bites on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re cooked through and golden.

How can I make these bites spicier?

If you’re a fan of heat, increase the amount of hot sauce in the buttermilk mixture or add more crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce to turn up the heat a notch!

What can I do with leftover steak bites?

Leftover steak bites can be a treat on their own or repurposed into other meals. Chop them up and toss into a salad or wrap them in a tortilla with some cheese and veggies for a quick lunch option. They’re versatile and just as delightful the next day.