Summer Chicken Fried Steak is a dish that dances on your palate with its crispy coating, tender meat, and a smothering of creamy gravy. Imagine biting into a golden-brown crust that crackles as you sink your teeth into the juicy, flavorful steak underneath. The aroma wafts through the air, promising comfort and satisfaction that only fried food can deliver.

This dish always reminds me of warm summer nights spent at my grandmother’s house, where every meal felt like a special occasion. She served her chicken fried steak with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans, creating an irresistible feast that brought our family together. Perfect for barbecues or cozy dinners, Summer Chicken Fried Steak is sure to delight anyone who takes a bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Summer Chicken Fried Steak recipe combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavors that everyone will enjoy
- The crispy exterior provides an appealing texture that complements the juicy meat perfectly
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or casual get-togethers
- Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that you’ll want to make it again and again
One summer evening, I served this dish to friends during a backyard barbecue. Their delighted reactions made me realize how special this recipe truly is.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 breasts for optimal serving size adjust based on your guest list.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for the coating sifted flour ensures a smooth application.
- Buttermilk: Provides moisture and flavor use homemade by mixing milk and vinegar if you’re out.
- Paprika: Adds depth and color smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings but critical for enhancing all other flavors in the dish.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying choose oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil.
- Chicken Broth: For gravy homemade broth adds richness but store-bought works just fine too.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious gravy opt for full fat for the best results.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a hint of savory goodness fresh minced garlic can also be used for extra punch.
- Onion Powder: Complements the garlic nicely in the gravy ensures rich flavor without overpowering.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Chicken: Start by tenderizing your chicken breasts using a meat mallet until they are about half an inch thick. This helps ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Dredge in Buttermilk and Flour: Soak each chicken breast in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before dredging them in seasoned flour mixed with paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is well-coated for maximum crunch
Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom about half an inch deep. Let it heat until shimmering but not smoking perfect frying time is crucial
Fry the Chicken Steaks: Carefully place each coated chicken breast into the hot oil. Fry them until golden brown on each side, roughly 4-5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Make the Gravy: Once cooked, remove chicken from pan and let rest. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and whisk flour into remaining oil to create a roux before adding broth gradually while stirring.
Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in heavy cream along with garlic powder and onion powder until smooth. Simmer gently until thickened this is where your kitchen will smell divine
With these steps completed, you will have created an unforgettable Summer Chicken Fried Steak experience that will surely impress your loved ones
You Must Know
- This summer chicken fried steak recipe is perfect for sunny days, blending crispy textures and savory flavors
- Perfect for picnics or family dinners, it elevates comfort food to new heights
- Don’t forget the sides fresh salads pair beautifully with this dish
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by tenderizing the steak before seasoning. While it rests, prepare your coating station. Dredge in flour, then fry until golden brown for a perfectly crispy crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the traditional gravy for a creamy mushroom sauce or add spices like cayenne for a kick. Customize based on your taste
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve that crispy texture, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying
- Always let the meat rest after cooking to lock in moisture
- Use buttermilk in the dredge for extra flavor and tenderness
Sharing this dish with friends reminds me of summer barbecues where laughter filled the air and everyone devoured every last bite.
FAQ
What is summer chicken fried steak?
Summer chicken fried steak is a twist on classic fried steak, perfect for warm weather meals.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How do I make my gravy thicker?
To thicken gravy, whisk in cornstarch mixed with cold water during cooking until desired consistency is reached.

Summer Chicken Fried Steak
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- Author: Clara Rosewood
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the crispy, golden-brown delight of Summer Chicken Fried Steak. This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a crunchy coating and generously smothered in creamy gravy. Perfect for family gatherings or summer barbecues, this recipe will evoke nostalgic memories while delivering comfort food at its finest. Easy to make and utterly satisfying, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Tenderize chicken breasts to about half an inch thick using a meat mallet.
- Soak each chicken breast in buttermilk for 30 minutes.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour with paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each breast in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- For the gravy, reduce heat to medium-low and whisk remaining flour into the skillet oil to form a roux. Gradually add chicken broth while stirring.
- Stir in heavy cream, garlic powder, and onion powder; simmer until thickened.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken steak with gravy (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 105mg