When you’re craving a hearty, delicious sandwich that combines crispy, tender steak with a savory, crunchy coating, look no further than the Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich. This iconic dish brings all the flavors of a classic Chicago steak sandwich without the hassle of complicated steps. With its juicy breaded steak, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, this sandwich is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and a satisfying meal. It’s quick to prepare, and the crispy coating adds a delightful texture that complements the juicy steak, making it an irresistible choice for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just treating yourself to a flavorful meal, this sandwich is sure to impress.

The concept of the Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich has its roots in Chicago’s vibrant food scene. This sandwich was born from the desire to combine the bold flavors of a breaded steak with the simplicity of a sandwich. Over time, the sandwich became a beloved part of the city’s food culture, with local vendors serving up their own variations. The dish features a tender piece of steak that’s breaded and fried to crispy perfection, then served on a soft, hearty bun, often topped with melted cheese and a variety of fresh toppings. It’s the perfect balance of crunch, juiciness, and flavor—a combination that never goes out of style.

What makes this sandwich so great is how easy it is to make, even if you’re not an experienced cook. The breading process is simple, and the flavors come together quickly. Once the steak is coated and fried, it’s ready to be assembled, with endless possibilities for toppings. You can keep it classic with just some cheese and a few vegetables, or you can get creative by adding pickles, onions, or even spicy peppers for an extra kick. This sandwich is as versatile as it is delicious, and it can easily be adapted to suit your taste.

Why This Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich Works

Selling Points:

• Quick and Simple: No need for complicated steps or a long cooking time—this sandwich comes together in a flash.
  
• Customizable: Choose your favorite cheese, toppings, and condiments to make the sandwich your own.
  
• Hearty and Satisfying: With the crispy steak and soft bun, this sandwich is filling and perfect for any meal.
  
• Kid-Friendly: The breaded steak is tender, and the flavors are mild enough to be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
  
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together, this sandwich fits the bill.
  

What You Need for Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich

2 beef sirloin steaks, pounded thin

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
  
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
  
• 1 teaspoon paprika
  
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
• 2 eggs, beaten
  
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
  
• Vegetable oil for frying
  
• 4 sandwich buns
  
• 4 slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese
  
• Fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional

How to Make Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich

1. Prepare the steaks: Start by pounding the steaks to an even thinness using a meat mallet. This will ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.
   
2. Prepare the breading: In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
   
3. Coat the steaks: Dredge each steak first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumbs. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
   
4. Fry the steaks: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
   
5. Assemble the sandwich: Toast the sandwich buns lightly if desired. Place a slice of cheese on each steak while it’s still hot so it melts. Then, place the cheesy steak on the bottom half of each bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired, and top with the other half of the bun.
   
6. Serve and enjoy: Cut the sandwiches in half for easy serving and enjoy your delicious Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich!
   

Tips for the Perfect Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the steaks in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps the breading stay crispy and ensures the steaks cook evenly.
  
• Use Panko for Extra Crunch: If you want an extra-crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
  
• Let the Steaks Rest: After frying, let the steaks rest for a minute or two to allow the juices to redistribute.
  
• Use Quality Meat: Choose good-quality beef for the best flavor. Thin-cut sirloin or ribeye works best for this sandwich.
  
• Add Spice: For a kick, try adding hot sauce or jalapeños to the sandwich.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Try using a plant-based protein or portobello mushroom as a substitute for the steak.
  
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.
  
• Bread Variations: If you’re looking for something different, try using a baguette, hoagie roll, or even a brioche bun.
  

Make It Healthier

• Baked Version: For a lighter version, bake the breaded steak in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, instead of frying.
  
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the breadcrumbs for crushed almonds or a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative to make a low-carb version.
  
• Lighten the Toppings: Instead of using full-fat cheese, try a reduced-fat cheese or skip it entirely for a lighter option.
  

Closing for Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich

This Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich is a must-try for anyone who loves the savory, crispy goodness of breaded steak. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a weekend BBQ, it’s sure to be a hit. The combination of crispy breaded steak, melted cheese, and fresh toppings creates a sandwich that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, with the ability to customize the ingredients to suit your taste, you can make this sandwich as simple or as loaded as you like. Give it a try, and you’re sure to enjoy this Chicago classic!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded steaks in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry them. However, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving.

Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts for the steak. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken.

Can I bake the breaded steaks?
Yes, you can bake the breaded steaks at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version of this sandwich.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or on a skillet to keep the bread crispy.

Can I add other toppings to the sandwich?
Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even a fried egg for a gourmet twist.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken cutlets, pork steaks, or even turkey for a variation on this sandwich. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.

Can I make this sandwich without frying?
Certainly! For a healthier option, you can bake the breaded steak in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown. You may want to lightly spray the breaded steaks with cooking spray before baking for that crispy texture.

Can I freeze the breaded steak?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded steak before frying. Lay the breaded steaks on a baking sheet, freeze them for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them to a ziplock bag for storage. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen or bake them.

What should I serve with the sandwich?
This sandwich pairs well with a variety of sides, such as crispy fries, a side salad, or even coleslaw. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I add sauces to this sandwich?
Yes! Try adding a variety of sauces such as ketchup, mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, or spicy mustard for extra flavor. You can even try a creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for a unique twist.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Yes, you can make the sandwich gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring that the bun is gluten-free. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free sandwich rolls.

Can I add spicy toppings?
For a spicy kick, try adding jalapeños, banana peppers, or a drizzle of hot sauce on top of the steak before serving. You could also use spicy cheese like pepper jack for added heat.

What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
A soft, sturdy sandwich bun works best, such as a hoagie roll, Italian roll, or even brioche for a slightly sweeter flavor. Just ensure the bun can hold up to the crispy steak and toppings.

The Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich is a delicious, flavorful, and versatile option that will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you enjoy it with a simple cheese topping or load it up with fresh veggies and condiments, this sandwich is bound to please a variety of taste buds. It’s an ideal choice for a satisfying lunch, a hearty dinner, or a meal to impress at your next gathering. The best part? You can easily customize it to suit your preferences, making it the ultimate go-to comfort food.

Easy Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 beef sirloin steaks, pounded thin

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)

• Vegetable oil for frying

• 4 sandwich buns

• 4 slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese

• Fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)

Directions

• Prepare the steaks: Start by pounding the steaks to an even thinness using a meat mallet. This will ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.
• Prepare the breading: In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
• Coat the steaks: Dredge each steak first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumbs. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
• Fry the steaks: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• Assemble the sandwich: Toast the sandwich buns lightly if desired. Place a slice of cheese on each steak while it’s still hot so it melts. Then, place the cheesy steak on the bottom half of each bun. Add lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired, and top with the other half of the bun.
• Serve and enjoy: Cut the sandwiches in half for easy serving and enjoy your delicious Chicago Breaded Steak Sandwich!