Chicken is a lean, versatile protein that’s a staple in many healthy diets. However, some people find the mild flavor of chicken to be a bit boring compared to beef. If you love the rich, savory taste of a good steak but want a healthier and more budget-friendly option, there are easy ways to make chicken taste more like beef!
Here are 7 simple steps to give chicken a hearty, beefy flavor:
1. Choose Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the ideal cut of chicken for mimicking the texture of steak. They are lean and tender when cooked properly. Chicken thighs or legs have more fat and connective tissue, giving them a texture closer to pork or lamb. Stick with breasts to get as close to a steak texture as possible.
2. Pound the Chicken to Even Thickness
Pounding the chicken breasts creates an even thickness just like a steak. It also tenderizes the meat to make it easier to bite through and chew. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently but firmly pound each piece to 1⁄2 inch thickness.
3. Salt and Pepper Heavily
Generously season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with lots of coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. Steak is typically seasoned much more boldly than mild chicken, so don’t be afraid to really layer it on. Kosher or sea salt provides a hearty crunch and flavor punch.
4. Sear the Chicken in a Cast Iron Skillet
To get an evenly browned, crusty exterior like grilled steak, sear the chicken in a hot cast iron skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering hot, add the chicken and cook 3-4 minutes per side without moving it. The chicken will develop a lovely brown crust.
5. Sauté Aromatics Like Onions and Garlic
While searing meat, juices and browned bits called “fond” stick to the bottom of the pan. Deglazing the pan with aromatics like onion and garlic adds tons of rich, beefy flavor. After searing the chicken, sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in the skillet until softened.
6. Make a Quick Pan Sauce
A flavorful pan sauce brings everything together! After sautéing the aromatics, pour in 1⁄2 cup beef broth and 1 tablespoon steak sauce like A1 or Worcestershire Scrape any browned fond off the bottom of the pan and let the sauce simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes
7. Optionally, Add Mushrooms
Sliced mushrooms are a common accompaniment to steak. For an extra meaty, umami flavor, add 8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms to the pan with the aromatics. Cook until browned and softened before making the pan sauce.
And that’s it! With just a few easy steps, you can transform humble chicken breasts into a hearty, beefy meal. Pound for even thickness, generously season with salt and pepper, sear for a crust, and deglaze the pan for tons of rich flavor. Customize your “steak” chicken with your favorite mushrooms, onions, or other aromatics. Enjoy your budget-friendly “steak” and no one will guess it’s chicken!
Some other tips for giving chicken maximum steak-like flavor:
- Use a flavorful oil like avocado, walnut, or hazelnut oil to sear the chicken
- Add a dash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or steak sauce to the pan sauce
- Garnish with a pat of butter or dollop of sour cream when serving
- Use a meat mallet or heavy saucepan to really pound the chicken thin
- Let the chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing for juicier meat
- Serve with traditional steakhouse sides like mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, or grilled asparagus
- Use a grill pan on the stovetop for dark grill marks just like a steak
- Upgrade from basic chicken breasts to thicker, juicier airline chicken breasts
- Mix 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules into the seasoning for a deeper flavor
The possibilities are endless when it comes to making chicken taste as close to steak as possible. Whether you’re in the mood for a fast weeknight dinner or want an impressive yet budget-friendly dish for a dinner party, faux “steak” chicken breasts never disappoint. Ditch the bland chicken stigma and give these recipes a try for chicken that tastes just like the real thing! Steak lovers everywhere will be fooled by the irresistible flavor.
Serving Suggestions for a juicy chicken steak
Pair your chicken steak with these delicious sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus.
- Fresh Salad: A light, tangy salad to balance the richness.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra juices.
- Sauce: a coriander chutney goes beautifully with this steak.
- High in Protein: Chicken steak is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Low in Calories: A healthier alternative to beef or lamb steaks.
- Rich in Vitamins: Contains B vitamins, which support energy metabolism.
- Versatile and Balanced: Easily paired with healthy sides for a complete meal.
Chicken steak is a beloved dish in many cultures around the world. In the United States, it’s a staple of Southern comfort food, often served with gravy. In the Philippines, chicken steak is a popular dish marinated in soy sauce and calamansi juice. Its versatility and universal appeal make it a global favourite.
If you love this chicken steak recipe and want more like it, try my lamb steak which has Arab cuisine influences.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and more flavourful, making them a great alternative.
Q: How long can I store cooked chicken steak? A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Q: Can I freeze chicken steak? A: Yes, freeze cooked chicken steak for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat chicken steak? A: Reheat in a frying pan or griddle over low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Introduction to this flavourful chicken steak recipe
Chicken steak is a timeless dish that combines simplicity, flavour, and versatility into one delicious meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this chicken steak recipe is perfect for anyone looking to create a satisfying and protein-packed dish, especially with the addition of cottage cheese in the marinade. With its tender, juicy texture and ability to pair well with a variety of seasonings and sides, this chicken steak recipe is a go-to option for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or even meal prep.
But what makes chicken steak so special? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time. Plus, chicken is a lean and healthy protein source, making it a great alternative to heavier meats like beef or lamb. Whether you prefer it grilled, pan-seared, or baked, chicken steak can be customised to suit your taste buds—spicy, savoury, or even tangy.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect chicken steak, from the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips, variations, and serving ideas. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make!
How to make chicken TASTE LIKE STEAK!!
FAQ
How to make chicken taste more like beef?
I add some soy sauce and a little country bobs sauce to ground chicken. It gives it a richer, meatier taste, more like beef.
Can you cook chicken like steak?
Reverse Sear Chicken Breast Like Steak For A Deliciously Crispy Crust For a long time, carnivores who love a thick, perfectly cooked steak have been using the so-called reverse sear method to get a flavorful brown exterior and pink, juicy inside on their meat.
Does steak seasoning work on chicken?
Steak seasoning is just marketing, you can use it on anything you like. My favorite seasoning blend is technically a “steak seasoning” but I find it is delicious on steak, chicken, fish, roasted veggies and even in soups and stews. Bottom line is just experiment and see if you like it.