Description

Chicken fried steak is a classic Southern dish that brings together the comfort of a crispy, fried exterior with the tender, juicy interior of a well-prepared steak. Despite its name, chicken fried steak is made from beef, typically cube steak, that is breaded and fried much like fried chicken. The dish is traditionally served with a creamy, flavorful gravy that perfectly complements the savory steak. It's a hearty meal that's perfect for family dinners or when you need a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• 4 cube steaks (about 4-6 oz each)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 3 tablespoons butter (for gravy)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy)
• 2 cups whole milk (for gravy)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for gravy)

Preparation Method

Prepare the Steaks:

If using round steaks, tenderize them with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick. If using cube steak, proceed without tenderizing.
Set Up Breading Stations:

In a shallow dish, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
In another shallow dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well combined.
Bread the Steaks:

Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, and finally dredge it again in the flour mixture. Press the flour onto the steak to ensure it adheres well.
Heat the Oil:

Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to reach about 1/2 inch depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Fry the Steaks:

Carefully place the breaded steaks into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Gravy:

In the same skillet, remove all but 2-3 tablespoons of the frying oil. Add 3 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt.
Stir in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture turns golden brown.
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, continuing to whisk until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:

Serve the chicken fried steak hot, smothered in the creamy gravy. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a slight kick, or incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the gravy for a more aromatic dish. You can also add a little Parmesan cheese to the breading mix for a richer taste.

Conclusion:

This chicken fried steak with gravy is the epitome of comfort food. The crispy, flavorful crust combined with the tender steak inside and the rich, creamy gravy makes for an irresistible dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delicious combination of textures and flavors that make this Southern classic a timeless treat.