Chicken fried steak is a popular Southern dish that has found its way into menus all over the United States. This savory dish is made by coating a tenderized piece of beef with seasoned flour and then frying it to golden-brown perfection. But chicken fried steak is not complete without its flavorful sides and accompaniments.
Whether you are a die-hard fan of this classic comfort food or a newbie looking to try it out, you might be wondering what to serve chicken fried steak with. This article explores some traditional and modern sides and condiments that pair perfectly with chicken fried steak, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
The Perfect Side Dishes for Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a classic southern dish that consists of a breaded and fried piece of steak served with a creamy gravy. While this dish is delicious on its own, it can be even better when paired with the right sides. The perfect side dishes for chicken fried steak are those that complement the rich flavors of the dish and enhance the overall dining experience.
One of the most popular side dishes for chicken fried steak is mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes along with the rich gravy from the steak create a perfect blend of flavors. Another great side dish option is creamed corn. The sweetness of the corn pairs well with the savory flavors of the steak and gravy. Other delicious side dishes to try include green beans, coleslaw, or mac and cheese. These sides add a bit of crunch and variety to the meal, making it even more enjoyable. Ultimately, the perfect side dish for chicken fried steak depends on your personal preferences and tastes.
Simple Recipes for Pairing Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is considered a classic comfort food in the Southern parts of the United States. It is a dish made with tenderized cube steak that is seasoned and coated with flour and fried until golden brown. Since chicken fried steak is usually served with gravy, it can be paired with a variety of side dishes that complement the savory and rich flavors of the dish.
To complement chicken fried steak, you can opt for simple and classic Southern sides such as mashed potatoes, collard greens, mac and cheese, and green beans. These dishes will add a touch of comfort to your meal and provide a balance to the fried steak. You can also try lighter and fresh options such as coleslaw, cucumber salad, roasted vegetables, or corn on the cob to add some crunch and refreshing flavors to your plate. No matter what you pair it with, chicken fried steak is a hearty and satisfying dish that will surely please your taste buds.
From Gravy to Vegetables: The Best Complements for Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a popular comfort food that is typically served with a variety of side dishes. While gravy is a classic complement that adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish, there are many other options to consider. Vegetables, for example, are a healthy and delicious way to balance out the heavy, fried nature of the steak.
Roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are great options that can add a nutritious crunch to your meal. You can also try a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette dressing to complement the hearty and filling steak. Corn on the cob, mashed or baked potatoes, and mac and cheese are other tasty options to consider. When it comes to sides for your chicken fried steak, the possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combination.
Finding Flavor Balance: Pairing Wine and Beer with Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a popular Southern comfort food dish that is crispy, juicy, and flavorful. To enhance its taste and balance the flavors, try pairing it with a glass of wine or beer. Red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or Zinfandel work well with the dish’s bold and hearty flavors. The wine’s tannins cut through the rich and savory gravy, while its fruitiness complements the meat’s sweetness.
Alternatively, you can opt for a beer that can refresh and cleanse the palate between bites. Light beers such as lagers or pilsners are great for this purpose, while darker and more hoppy beers can bring out the steak’s umami flavor, especially when paired with a side of mashed potatoes or biscuits. Overall, choosing the right beverage can amplify the experience of consuming a perfectly cooked chicken fried steak and take it to a new level of gastronomic pleasure.
Regional Variations: What Locals Eat with Chicken Fried Steak
Regional variations in the United States are vast, and with that brings a variety of side dishes to pair with chicken fried steak. In the South, biscuits and gravy are a popular side. The fluffy, warm biscuits are slathered in creamy gravy, creating a truly comforting and indulgent meal. Other Southern favorites include mashed potatoes, collard greens, and buttery cornbread.
In the West, Mexican-style rice and beans are often served with chicken fried steak, adding a bit of spice and Hispanic flair to the dish. Alternatively, a simple side salad with ranch dressing is a refreshing complement. In the Midwest, the steak is usually served with fried or mashed potatoes, green beans, and sometimes sweet corn. No matter where you go, chicken fried steak is a beloved classic that can be paired with various sides to create a truly satisfying meal.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options to Accompany Chicken Fried Steak
For those who are vegetarian or vegan, finding an appropriate accompaniment to chicken fried steak can be a bit tricky due to the heavy reliance on meat in Southern cuisine. However, there are plenty of delicious and satisfying options that can still complement the flavors of the dish.
One great choice is to serve roasted or sautéed vegetables alongside the steak. Try roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for a flavorful and healthy addition to your meal. Another option is to make a vegetarian gravy using mushrooms, vegetable broth, and spices. This can be poured over the chicken fried steak to provide a rich and savory taste without the need for meat-based gravy. With these vegetarian and vegan options, everyone at the table can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal together.
Serving Suggestions: Presentation, Garnishes, and More for Chicken Fried Steak
Presentation is key when it comes to serving chicken fried steak. Since it’s a classic Southern dish, it’s best to serve it with a touch of rustic charm. You can start by placing a warm, hearty serving of chicken fried steak on a wooden board or in a cast-iron skillet. This presentation will add to the rustic feel of the dish.
Garnishing your chicken fried steak adds another level of flavor and texture. You can top it with your favorite gravy, whether it be white or brown. For a pop of color, serve it with a side of green beans, kale salad or roasted carrots. You could also top it with a fried egg or serve it with a side of mashed potatoes. No matter how you choose to serve it, the presentation and garnishes will add to the overall appeal and improve the delicious taste of the chicken fried steak.
Final Words
Chicken fried steak is a beloved classic diner dish that is usually served with a variety of sides and toppings depending on where you order it. While some diners might stick with the basics like mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans, others may opt for more unconventional sides like mac and cheese or tater tots.
Ultimately, the choice of side dishes and toppings for chicken fried steak comes down to personal preference. However, it’s safe to say that the dish is best enjoyed with a hearty and satisfying side that complements the flavors and textures of the crispy steak. Whether you prefer to keep it classic or get a little creative, there’s no denying that chicken fried steak is a comfort food staple that will always have a special place on Southern menus.