Few dishes define Southern comfort food quite like chicken fried steak. This golden, crispy delight, smothered in a rich and creamy gravy, is the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner or a nostalgic taste of home-cooked goodness, chicken fried steak never disappoints.
Originally inspired by the German and Austrian dish Wiener Schnitzel, this American classic became a staple in Southern kitchens. It’s the perfect combination of crunchy, well-seasoned crust and tender steak, topped with a luscious, creamy gravy that seeps into every bite.
If you’re looking for an easy, foolproof recipe for chicken fried steak, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ll guide you through everything—from selecting the right cut of steak to perfecting that crispy, flavorful crust. Plus, we’ll share pro tips to ensure your dish turns out restaurant-quality every time!
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: A crunchy, golden crust that locks in all the flavors.
- Rich and Creamy Gravy: A smooth, indulgent sauce made from pan drippings.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Perfect for cozy dinners, special occasions, or whenever you need a little Southern warmth.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish accessible for home cooks of all levels.
- Versatile Sides: Pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, biscuits, green beans, or mac and cheese.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak
For the Steak:
- 1 lb pre-tenderized cube steaks (or round steaks, pounded thin)
- Kosher salt (for seasoning)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp kosher salt (for breading)
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- Oil for frying (canola, peanut, or olive oil)
For the Gravy:
- 3 tbsp pan drippings
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1¾ cups milk
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak
Step 1: Prep the Steaks
- If using round steak, pound it thin to tenderize.
- Lightly season both sides with kosher salt and let it sit for a few minutes.
Step 2: Bread the Steaks
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls:
- Flour mixed with salt, garlic powder, and cayenne.
- Beaten eggs mixed with milk.
- Another bowl of seasoned flour.
- Dredge each steak in the flour, dip into the egg mixture, and coat again with flour, pressing the breading in for extra crispiness.
Step 3: Fry the Steaks
- Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry each steak for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and keep warm in an oven set to 200°F while making the gravy.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Gravy
- Using the same pan, leave 3 tbsp of pan drippings and discard excess oil.
- Whisk in flour and cook over medium heat until golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
- Simmer until thickened and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Plate the crispy chicken fried steak and generously pour the creamy gravy over the top.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, collard greens, or your favorite Southern sides.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Steak
✔ Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness – For a thicker crust, repeat the flour-egg-flour breading process. ✔ Keep the Oil Hot – Maintain 350°F for even frying and crispy texture. ✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches to ensure each steak gets crispy. ✔ Season Well – Salt and spices make a big difference in flavor, so don’t skimp on seasoning. ✔ Adjust Gravy Consistency – Add more milk for thinner gravy or let it simmer longer for a thicker sauce.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 4 Servings)
- Calories: 886
- Protein: 50g
- Carbs: 60g
- Fat: 49g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 212mg
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! While cube steak is preferred, you can use round steak and pound it thin for tenderness.
2. What’s the best oil for frying chicken fried steak?
Canola oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil work best due to their high smoke points.
3. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! Store fried steaks in the fridge and reheat in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
4. How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Let the breaded steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before frying, and avoid stacking them after cooking.
5. Can I freeze leftover chicken fried steak?
Yes! Freeze cooked steaks in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like homemade chicken fried steak—crispy, juicy, and drenched in creamy gravy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday meal, or just a comforting dish on a cold evening, this recipe will never disappoint.
Try it tonight, and let the flavors of chicken fried steak transport you to the heart of the South! Don’t forget to serve it with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for the full experience.
Love this recipe? Share it with family and friends, and let us know your favorite way to enjoy chicken fried steak in the comments below!
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🍗 Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy! 🤤
Description
Golden, crispy, and smothered in rich, creamy gravy—Chicken Fried Steak is the ultimate Southern comfort food! Whether it’s for Sunday dinner or a special treat, this dish brings back memories of home-cooked goodness. Serve it with mashed potatoes and enjoy every bite of that crunchy crust and tender steak. Ready to dig in? 😋
Ingredients
🔹 For the Steak:
- 1 lb pre-tenderized cube steaks (or round steaks, pounded thin)
- Kosher salt (for seasoning)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp kosher salt (for breading)
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cayenne
- Oil for frying (canola, peanut, or olive oil)
🔹 For the Gravy:
- 3 tbsp pan drippings
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1¾ cups milk
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Steaks: If using round steak, pound thin. Season with salt.
2️⃣ Bread the Steaks: Dip in flour, then egg wash, then flour again, pressing the breading in.
3️⃣ Fry the Steaks: Heat oil to 350°F and fry each steak for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a warm oven (200°F) while making the gravy.
4️⃣ Make the Gravy: Use pan drippings, whisk in flour, and cook until light brown. Slowly add milk & cream, whisking constantly until smooth. Season with salt & pepper.
5️⃣ Serve: Pour that creamy gravy over the crispy steak & enjoy with mashed potatoes!
Notes
✔ For extra crispy steak, double-dip the breading!
✔ Keep steaks warm in the oven while making the gravy.
✔ Add more milk for thinner gravy or let it simmer longer for thicker consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 Servings
- Calories: 886 per serving
- Fat: 49g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 60g per serving
- Protein: 50g per serving