Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak Recipe [+Tips & Tricks]

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak is a decadent, crispy, and flavorful dish that combines the indulgence of southern comfort food with Ramsay’s signature flair for creating dishes that are both delicious and visually stunning. With its perfectly seasoned coating, tender meat, and rich gravy, it’s a true culinary experience worth savoring.

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak is a twist on the classic southern dish, "chicken-fried steak." It consists of a tenderized piece of beef (usually a round steak) that is breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection, similar to fried chicken.

This dish is often served with a creamy, rich gravy, making it the ultimate comfort food. Ramsay’s version stands out for its crisp, flavorful breading and the perfectly balanced seasoning of the meat, with an emphasis on creating a well-executed, flavorful experience from start to finish.

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Beef steaks (round steak, tenderized, or other preferred cuts)
2. Buttermilk – This is key for tenderizing the meat and adding flavor to the breading.
3. Flour – Used to create the breading.
4. Cornstarch – Adds to the crispiness of the breading.
5. Seasoning mix – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, and any other spices you prefer.
6. Eggs – Used to help the breading stick to the meat.
7. Vegetable oil – For frying the steaks.
8. Butter – Used for making the gravy.
9. Milk or cream – Adds richness to the gravy.
10. Beef stock – For depth of flavor in the gravy.
11. Flour – For thickening the gravy.

These ingredients combine to create the crispy, tender steak and a flavorful gravy that will complement the dish perfectly.

Equipment Needed

Here’s a list of the essential equipment you’ll need to prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak:

1. Frying Pan or Dutch Oven – For frying the steak. A cast-iron skillet is ideal for achieving an even, crispy crust.
2. Whisk – To prepare the egg wash and for mixing the gravy.
3. Meat Tenderizer – For pounding the steaks to an even thickness, ensuring they cook uniformly.
4. Shallow Dishes or Bowls – To hold the buttermilk, flour mixture, and egg wash.
5. Tongs – For flipping the steaks in the hot oil.
6. Strainer or Sieve – For straining the gravy and ensuring a smooth consistency.
7. Cooking Thermometer – Optional, but can help ensure the oil temperature stays consistent during frying (around 350°F/175°C).

How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak:

1. Tenderize the Steaks: Use a meat mallet to tenderize the steaks to about 1/2 inch thickness. This helps the meat cook evenly and become incredibly tender once fried.
2. Prepare the Buttermilk Marinade: In a bowl, add buttermilk and season it with a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place the steaks into the buttermilk and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor.
3. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, and more salt and pepper. Mix it well.
4. Set Up Your Breading Station: Beat a couple of eggs in another shallow dish. The process will be as follows: first dip the marinated steak into the egg wash, then dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breading sticks.
5. Heat the Oil: Heat about 1-1.5 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should reach around 350°F (175°C). To test, drop a little flour into the oil – if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
6. Fry the Steaks: Carefully place the breaded steaks in the hot oil. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until the breading is golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them halfway through cooking.
7. Make the Gravy: Once the steaks are fried, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same pan, melt butter and add a bit of flour to create a roux. Stir constantly until the flour is lightly browned. Gradually add beef stock and milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer until the gravy thickens, then season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve: Pour the gravy over the crispy fried steak, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve with mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or any side dish of your choice.

Expert Tips

1. For Extra Crispiness: Double-dip the steaks. After dipping in the egg wash, dredge the steak in the flour, then dip it back into the egg and coat it again in the flour. This double layer adds an extra layer of crunch to the breading.
2. Oil Temperature is Key: Maintaining the right oil temperature is essential. Too hot, and the breading will burn before the steak cooks through. Too cool, and the steak will be greasy. A thermometer can help you keep the oil at a consistent temperature.
3. Let the Steak Rest: After frying, allow the steak to rest for a minute or two. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures a moist and tender bite.
4. Customize the Gravy: Add a bit of cream or a splash of hot sauce to the gravy to give it a more luxurious texture or a subtle kick of heat.

Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak is a dish that offers the perfect blend of crunchy, savory goodness with a tender, juicy center. The combination of well-seasoned breading, rich gravy, and a well-cooked steak makes it a true comfort food classic.

With expert tips to ensure crispy breading and a flavorful gravy, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether for a special occasion or a casual meal, Gordon Ramsay’s take on chicken-fried steak elevates this southern staple to an entirely new level of deliciousness.

Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak

Gordon Ramsay’s take on the classic chicken fried steak combines the crispiness of a perfectly fried breading with the tenderness of a well-cooked piece of beef. However, while his recipe is already delicious, there are several easy variations to make it more tailored to your tastes, dietary preferences, or regional influences.

1. Spicy Version:
   If you’re craving a little heat, you can add some spice to the breading. Mix cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili powder into your flour mixture. This will infuse the breading with a nice kick that contrasts with the richness of the steak. You could also add a touch of hot sauce to the buttermilk to increase the heat, making the steak even more flavorful.

2. Herb-Infused:
   For an earthy, aromatic twist, add finely chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage to the flour mixture. Herbs like these can add a wonderful depth of flavor. You can also try adding dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning to infuse the flour with a more Mediterranean flavor profile.

3. Gluten-Free:
   For those following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Additionally, using gluten-free breadcrumbs will ensure that the crispiness is preserved, making for a satisfying alternative without compromising on texture.

4. Southern-Style Buttermilk Fried:
   While Ramsay’s recipe calls for a light coating of flour, for a more indulgent Southern-style fried steak, you can marinate your steaks in buttermilk overnight. This will tenderize the meat further, creating an incredibly moist and flavorful steak when fried. The buttermilk also helps the breading adhere better, making each bite irresistibly crispy.

5. Crispy Cornmeal Coating:
   Add a Southern twist by replacing some of the flour with cornmeal. This variation creates an ultra-crispy exterior and a slightly grainy texture, which contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside. You can also try a mix of cornmeal and breadcrumbs for an added crunch.

6. Vegan "Chicken" Fried Steak:
   For a vegan take, you can substitute the beef with a plant-based alternative, such as tofu or seitan. Marinate your tofu slices in vegetable broth or vegan buttermilk to give them flavor, then coat them in seasoned flour. Fry them as you would a traditional chicken fried steak for a vegan version that’s just as crispy and satisfying.

7. Asian-Inspired:
   For an international twist, add a bit of soy sauce and grated ginger to the buttermilk marinade. You could also mix in some sesame oil to the frying oil for an aromatic fragrance. For the breading, consider adding panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture that mirrors the Japanese style of frying.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftovers from your chicken fried steak can be just as tasty as when they are freshly made, provided you follow the right methods for storing them. Here are the best practices to ensure they stay fresh and flavorful for later:

1. Cooling Down:
   Before storing, always allow the chicken fried steak to cool down to room temperature. This helps to avoid condensation inside the storage container, which can lead to soggy breading. However, don’t leave the steak out for more than two hours to prevent foodborne illness.

2. Airtight Storage:
   Once the steak has cooled, store it in an airtight container to keep moisture out. If you want to preserve the crispy texture for later, you can place a piece of parchment paper or paper towel between layers of steak in the container to absorb excess moisture.

3. Refrigeration:
   Leftover chicken fried steak can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in the coldest part of the fridge to maintain its quality. If you plan to eat it soon, just reheating it in a skillet or the oven will help retain the crispiness.

4. Freezing:
   If you don’t plan on eating the leftovers in the next few days, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap the steaks tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave to ensure they stay crispy.

5. Reheating:
   The best way to reheat your chicken fried steak is in the oven or air fryer. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the steak is hot and crispy again. Avoid using a microwave if you want to keep the breading crisp, as microwaving can cause the crust to become soggy.

What Goes Well With Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken fried steak is a hearty, flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, from rich and creamy to fresh and light. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

1. Mashed Potatoes:
   A classic side dish, mashed potatoes go hand-in-hand with chicken fried steak. The creamy texture complements the crispy, fried steak, and the mashed potatoes help balance the richness of the meal. You can even top them with gravy made from the pan drippings for an added indulgence.

2. Gravy:
   Nothing beats a warm, velvety white gravy or brown gravy served alongside chicken fried steak. The sauce enhances the flavor of the meat and adds moisture to each bite. Whether you make it from scratch using the drippings or use a pre-made mix, gravy is essential.

3. Collard Greens:
   For a more traditional Southern pairing, collard greens are an excellent side. The slightly bitter flavor of the greens balances out the richness of the fried steak and adds a healthy, flavorful contrast.

4. Cornbread:
   Cornbread adds a slightly sweet and crumbly element to the meal, and its texture complements the crispy steak. You can make it sweet or savory, depending on your preferences. A drizzle of honey on cornbread can add a lovely sweet contrast to the savory fried steak.

5. Coleslaw:
   A fresh, tangy coleslaw provides a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the steak. The coolness of the slaw contrasts with the warmth of the fried steak, making it a perfect accompaniment.

6. Fried Okra:
   Another Southern classic, fried okra brings in a delightful crunch with its crispy coating and tender interior. It pairs beautifully with chicken fried steak, adding variety to the meal with its unique texture.

7. Pickles:
   A few tangy, crunchy pickle slices can serve as the perfect contrast to the rich, fried flavor of the chicken fried steak. The acidity in pickles helps cleanse your palate between bites.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s chicken fried steak is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit various preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer a spicy twist, a gluten-free option, or even a vegan version, there are countless ways to personalize this iconic comfort food.

When storing leftovers, it’s essential to use proper storage methods to preserve flavor and texture. Pairing this dish with traditional Southern sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, or cornbread elevates the meal and creates a satisfying dining experience. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a weeknight dinner, chicken fried steak is sure to impress.

FAQs

What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak Recipe?

Gordon Ramsay’s chicken fried steak recipe is a delicious Southern-style dish where chicken breasts are battered and fried until crispy, served with creamy gravy. The key ingredients include chicken breasts, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Ramsay also emphasizes the importance of seasoning the meat properly and ensuring a crispy, golden crust.

Can I Substitute Chicken For Beef In Chicken Fried Steak?

Yes, Gordon Ramsay’s chicken fried steak recipe uses chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the classic Southern dish. However, you can also substitute beef if you prefer traditional chicken fried steak with a beef cut like tenderized sirloin or cube steak.

What Makes Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak Special?

Gordon Ramsay’s chicken fried steak is known for its perfectly crispy exterior, juicy chicken, and the rich, flavorful gravy that complements it. Ramsay’s cooking technique emphasizes seasoning at every stage, from the chicken to the batter, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

What Kind Of Gravy Does Gordon Ramsay Use With Chicken Fried Steak?

Gordon Ramsay pairs his chicken fried steak with a creamy white gravy made with pan drippings, cream, and seasoning. The gravy is key to balancing the crispiness of the chicken and adding a smooth, rich texture.

What Is The Best Method For Frying The Chicken In Gordon Ramsay’s Recipe?

The best method for frying the chicken in Gordon Ramsay’s recipe is to heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C). The chicken should be coated in flour, then dipped in beaten eggs and breadcrumbs before frying until golden brown and crispy.

How Do I Ensure The Chicken Stays Juicy When Making Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak?

To ensure the chicken stays juicy, Gordon Ramsay recommends not overcooking the chicken. The chicken should be fried until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Additionally, letting the fried chicken rest before serving allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat.

Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Gordon Ramsay’s chicken fried steak by substituting traditional flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives such as rice flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Be sure to check the seasonings for any gluten-containing ingredients.

How Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak Spicier?

To make the dish spicier, you can add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for the batter. Additionally, you can spice up the gravy by incorporating hot sauce or ground chili flakes for an extra kick.

What Sides Pair Well With Gordon Ramsay’s Chicken Fried Steak?

Gordon Ramsay’s chicken fried steak pairs wonderfully with Southern sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, green beans, or cornbread. These sides complement the richness of the fried chicken and creamy gravy.

How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Fried Steak?

To store leftover chicken fried steak, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore its crispy texture.