Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak is a beloved dish that brings together crispy, golden breading and tender, juicy steak for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Originating in the Southern United States, this dish combines the best of fried textures and rich gravy to create a hearty plate perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you want a taste of classic comfort food. The process involves coating tenderized cube steaks in a seasoned flour mixture, frying them until crispy, and then smothering them in a creamy, savory gravy made from the pan drippings. It’s a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist.

This recipe brings traditional Southern flavors into your kitchen with straightforward steps and familiar ingredients. The result is a dish that is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and complemented by a luxurious gravy that ties everything together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying chicken fried steak for the first time, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying experience that embodies the warmth and comfort of Southern cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The steak turns out tender and juicy thanks to the pre-tenderized cube steaks.
• The seasoned breading creates a perfectly crispy and flavorful crust.
• The creamy homemade gravy elevates the dish and adds rich, comforting flavor.
• It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
• The recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

• Pre-tenderized cube steaks or round steaks
• Kosher salt
• Large eggs
• Milk
• All-purpose flour
• Garlic powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Oil for frying (canola, peanut, olive, or other)
• Pan drippings
• Heavy cream
• Freshly ground black pepper

Variations

You can experiment with different seasonings in the flour coating, such as smoked paprika, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or oregano, to add a unique twist. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or crushed cornflakes. To make the dish lighter, you can bake the breaded steaks instead of frying, though the traditional texture will be different. If you prefer a spicier gravy, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to taste.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

Season the cube steaks lightly with kosher salt on both sides.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, beat the eggs with milk. In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Steaks

Dip each steak into the egg mixture, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. Repeat the dip and dredge for a thicker coating.

Step 4: Fry the Steaks

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

Using the same skillet, leave about 3 tablespoons of pan drippings. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. Cook until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Serve

Pour the gravy over the fried steaks and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use pre-tenderized cube steaks for the best texture.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy crust.
• Double-dip the steaks in the egg and flour mixture for extra crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain oil temperature.
• Whisk the gravy continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.

How to Serve

Chicken fried steak is traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes and green beans or a crisp side salad. It also pairs wonderfully with buttermilk biscuits or cornbread. For a full Southern comfort meal, consider adding coleslaw or fried okra on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken fried steak and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken fried steak separately from the gravy. Wrap the steaks tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Freeze the gravy in a separate container.

Reheating

Reheat the steak in a 350°F oven until warmed through to retain crispiness. Warm the gravy gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. What cut of meat is best for chicken fried steak?
   Pre-tenderized cube steak or round steak is ideal.
2. Can I use fresh steak instead of pre-tenderized?
   Yes, but you may need to tenderize it yourself for the best results.
3. What oil is best for frying chicken fried steak?
   Neutral oils with high smoke points like canola or peanut oil work best.
4. How do I make the gravy without lumps?
   Whisk the flour and drippings thoroughly before adding milk slowly while whisking constantly.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
6. How do I keep the breading crispy?
   Avoid overcrowding the pan and keep the oil at the right temperature.
7. Is it okay to bake instead of fry?
   Yes, but baking won’t give the same crispy texture.
8. How long can leftovers be stored?
   Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
9. Can I freeze the cooked dish?
   Yes, steaks and gravy should be frozen separately.
10. What sides go well with chicken fried steak?
    Mashed potatoes, green beans, biscuits, or coleslaw are classic options.

Conclusion

Chicken fried steak is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings a taste of Southern tradition to your table. With its crispy breading, tender steak, and creamy homemade gravy, it’s a meal that satisfies and delights every time. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is straightforward, uses simple ingredients, and delivers classic comfort food at its best. Give it a try and enjoy a deliciously hearty meal that’s sure to become a favorite.

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