Chicken Fried Steak With Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Fried Steak recipe combines the best of comfort food with the flavors you crave. The steak is tenderized and coated in a crunchy breading, while the rich, creamy gravy takes the dish to another level of indulgence. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that's easy to make at home and can be served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite side dishes. The crispy steak and smooth gravy pair perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

• 4 beef cube steaks (about ½ inch thick)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup buttermilk

• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Steak: Start by tenderizing the beef cube steaks with a meat mallet, pounding them to about ¼-inch thickness. This helps ensure the steak is tender and cooks evenly.

2. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.

3. Coat the Steak: Dip each steak into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well. Set aside.

4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet by about ¼ inch. When the oil is hot (a small amount of flour should sizzle when dropped in), it’s time to fry.

5. Fry the Steaks: Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the steaks are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Make the Gravy: For the gravy, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve: Pour the gravy over the fried steaks and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading for a spicy kick.

• Cheese Gravy: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese into the gravy for a cheesy twist.

• Gravy with Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor and texture.

• Air Fried Option: For a healthier take, use an air fryer instead of frying the steak in oil.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Chicken Fried Steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covering with foil to prevent the steak from drying out. You can also microwave the steak, but the crust may not stay as crispy. For the gravy, reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little milk if it thickens too much.

FAQs

How can I make sure the breading stays crispy?

To keep the breading crispy, make sure to drain the fried steaks on a paper towel after cooking and avoid covering them while they rest.

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use sirloin or round steak in place of cube steak, but you may need to tenderize the meat more.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.

What can I serve with Chicken Fried Steak?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, cornbread, or coleslaw pair perfectly with Chicken Fried Steak.

How do I know when the steak is fully cooked?

The steak should have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked. It should also be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Can I freeze Chicken Fried Steak?

Yes, you can freeze cooked, unbreaded steak for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version using breaded portobello mushrooms or plant-based "steaks."

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, but buttermilk provides a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the meat. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

To make the gravy thicker, simply cook it a bit longer to reduce the liquid, or add a bit more flour to the roux.

Can I use a different oil for frying?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for frying, as long as the oil has a high smoke point.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a perfect combination of crispy, golden steak and rich, creamy gravy that will satisfy your comfort food cravings. Whether you're preparing it for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this Southern classic is always a crowd-pleaser. The recipe is easy to follow, and with a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. Add your favorite sides and enjoy!