Ep 121. Chicken Fried Steak + Rach's Takeout Twist on Chicken Noodle Soup

In season 17 episode 121 of the popular cooking show, Rachael Ray features two delicious and comforting dishes, Chicken Fried Steak and Chicken Noodle Soup with a twist. Rachael starts by showing her viewers how to make the perfect chicken fried steak, a classic Southern dish that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. She begins by seasoning the meat with salt, pepper, and garlic powder while mixing all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and Panko breadcrumbs in another bowl. She dips the seasoned steak into a mixture of buttermilk and hot sauce, then coats it in the flour mixture.

After heating a skillet with canola oil to 350 degrees, Rachael carefully adds the coated steak to the hot oil. She cooks the steak until it is golden brown and has a crispy crust. The dish is served with Rachael's special white gravy made by whisking flour, milk, and chicken broth in the same skillet after removing the cooked steak.

Next up is Rachael's twist on chicken noodle soup. She starts by sautéing some sliced leeks, carrot, celery, and garlic in a pot with olive oil. She then adds diced chicken to the pot and seasons it with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Once the chicken is cooked, Rachael pours in chicken broth and water and adds a few sprigs of fresh thyme. She brings the mixture to a boil and adds egg noodles, simmering until they are cooked through.

To spice up the traditional chicken noodle soup, Rachael adds some spicy Italian sausage and chopped kale. She notes that this twist on the classic dish adds a depth of flavor and texture to the soup.

After the two dishes are complete, Rachael invites her husband, John Cusimano, to taste her creations. He immediately raves about the chicken fried steak, loving the crispy coating of the meat and the creamy white gravy that complements it. As for the soup, he loves the added kick from the spicy sausage and the hearty texture that the kale brings to the dish.

Throughout the episode, Rachael sprinkles in some helpful cooking tips, showing her viewers how to properly season meat, how to make a perfectly crispy crust, and how to incorporate new flavors into classic dishes. As always, Rachael's personality shines through as she engages with her audience, making the whole experience of watching the show enjoyable and entertaining.

Overall, season 17 episode 121 of Rachael Ray's cooking show offers two delicious and comforting dishes that are perfect for a chilly night in. Rachael's chicken fried steak is a true Southern classic that is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner. Her twist on chicken noodle soup adds a whole new dimension to the classic soup, making it heartier and more flavorful. With her cheerful personality and helpful tips, Rachael Ray is sure to inspire viewers to get into the kitchen and start cooking.