Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy – A Southern Comfort Classic
Introduction:
There’s nothing more comforting than a hot, crispy Chicken Fried Steak smothered in rich, creamy gravy. This Southern classic is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend treat. The beef cube steaks are breaded and fried to golden perfection, then topped with a velvety gravy that’ll have everyone coming back for more. Whether served with mashed potatoes, a side of greens, or just on its own, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Let’s dive into the steps to make this mouthwatering meal that’s easy, delicious, and sure to be a family favorite!
Pro Tip:
For an extra crispy crust, let the breaded steaks sit for about 5 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and ensures an extra-crunchy texture when cooked!
Serving Suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic side to pair with chicken fried steak. The richness of the gravy complements the potatoes perfectly.
- Collard Greens or Green Beans – These greens add a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to balance out the richness of the steak and gravy.
- Cornbread – If you’re feeling extra Southern, serve this dish with a slice of warm, buttery cornbread to scoop up that delicious gravy!
Variations:
- Swap the Meat: While beef cube steaks are traditional, you can easily use chicken breasts or pork chops for a lighter, yet still delicious, version of this dish.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or stir in a little hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free while still keeping the crispy texture intact.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based meat substitutes like soy or seitan for the steaks, and swap regular milk with almond or oat milk for the gravy.
Equipment Needed:
- Large Skillet: Essential for frying the steaks evenly and allowing the gravy to be made in the same pan. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet works great for an even cook.
- Shallow Dishes: Use these to set up your breading station—one for the flour mixture and one for the egg wash, so you can easily coat your steaks.
- Whisk: To ensure the gravy comes out perfectly smooth and free of lumps, use a whisk to stir the ingredients as you cook.
Tips for Success:
- Use a Thermometer: If you’re unsure when the oil is hot enough for frying, use a thermometer. The oil should be at 350°F for the perfect golden-brown crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the steaks in batches to ensure they cook evenly and stay crispy. Overcrowding the pan causes the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy breading.
- Rest the Steaks: Let the fried steaks rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving to maintain that crispy texture.
- Gravy Consistency: If your gravy is too thick, simply add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it cook a little longer.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a more vibrant, intense flavor to both the breading and the gravy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy recipe is comfort food at its finest. With a crispy, seasoned coating and a smooth, creamy gravy, it’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for hearty appetites. It’s simple to make, yet feels indulgent enough for a special meal. Plus, it’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for leftovers the next day!
Recipe Card:
Ingredients:
- 4 beef cube steaks (about 1/3 pound each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons reserved frying oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prep the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In another dish, whisk together the eggs and 1/4 cup milk until smooth.
- Bread the Steaks: Dip each beef cube steak into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and coat again with the flour mixture.
- Fry the Steaks: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the steaks and keep them warm.
- Make the Gravy: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of the frying oil to the skillet, then stir in 2 tablespoons of flour. Whisk continuously until smooth.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Continue to cook and stir until the gravy thickens.
- Season and Serve: Season the gravy with salt and pepper, then pour it over the chicken fried steaks. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Table:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
FAQ:
- Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken breasts or thighs can be used as a substitute for beef. The cooking process remains the same. - Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the gravy a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before serving. - Can I freeze chicken fried steak?
Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded, uncooked steaks for up to 2 months. Just fry them from frozen and make the gravy fresh when ready to serve. - How do I store leftovers?
Store the leftover steaks and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the breading crispy. - Can I use buttermilk for the batter?
Yes, buttermilk will add a tangy flavor to the breading and make it even more tender. Simply swap it in for the regular milk in the egg wash.
