There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of perfectly golden chicken fried steak paired with creamy, peppery gravy. This beloved Southern comfort food transforms humble cube steak into a crispy, tender masterpiece that’ll have your family asking for seconds. Our chicken fried steak recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen, combining simple ingredients with time-tested techniques passed down through generations of Southern cooks.
Whether you’re craving an authentic Southern dinner recipe for Sunday supper or want to master the art of homemade chicken fried steak, this foolproof method guarantees crispy perfection every time. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll discover why this easy chicken fried steak has become a weeknight favorite in kitchens across America. Get ready to create the ultimate fried chicken dinner experience that rivals any country diner!
Recipe Information
Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Cost: Affordable
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
For the Steak:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/3 pound each), pounded to 1/4-inch thickness
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
For the Cream Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons reserved frying oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
Equipment Required
- Large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
- Meat mallet or tenderizer
- 2 shallow dishes for breading
- Wire cooling rack
- Paper towels
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Recipe Preparation: How To Make Chicken Fried Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Tenderize the cube steaks using a meat mallet until they’re evenly flattened to about 1/4-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then let them rest at room temperature for 10 minutes. This crucial step ensures your easy country fried steak will be tender and flavorful throughout.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Create your seasoned flour mixture by combining flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne in a shallow dish. In a second dish, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce. This double-breading technique is the secret to achieving that signature crispy coating that makes homemade chicken fried steak so irresistible.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into your cast iron skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Test with a pinch of flour – it should sizzle immediately when the oil is ready. Proper oil temperature is essential for creating the perfect chicken fried steak with gravy.
Step 4: Bread the Steaks
Dredge each steak first in the seasoned flour, ensuring complete coverage. Next, dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the flour mixture again, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. Place breaded steaks on a wire rack while you finish the remaining pieces.
Step 5: Fry the Steaks
Carefully place 2 steaks at a time into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil while maintaining crispiness.
Step 6: Make the Cream Gravy
Remove all but 3 tablespoons of oil from the skillet, keeping all those flavorful browned bits. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Plate your chicken fried steak and smother generously with the warm cream gravy. Serve alongside classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttermilk biscuits for the ultimate country fried steak and gravy experience.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Use cube steak for the most authentic texture, but you can substitute with tenderized round steak
- Don’t skip the buttermilk – it adds tanginess and helps create a more tender coating
- Maintain oil temperature between 325-350°F for optimal crispiness without burning
- Let steaks rest on a wire rack rather than paper towels to preserve the crispy coating
Delicious Variations:
Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich: Serve on a toasted brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and pickles for a handheld twist on this classic. Add a drizzle of gravy for extra indulgence.
Spicy Version: Increase cayenne pepper in both the flour mixture and gravy, or add your favorite hot sauce to the egg wash for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage and Reheating:
Store leftover chicken fried steak in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. The gravy can be stored separately and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk if needed.
Perfect Side Dishes:
This Southern dinner recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Southern-style green beans
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Mac and cheese
- Coleslaw
- Cornbread
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
The History Behind This Beloved Dish
Chicken fried steak has deep roots in American culinary history, emerging from German and Austrian immigrants who settled in Texas during the 19th century. They brought with them the technique of wiener schnitzel – breaded and fried veal cutlets. Adapting to available ingredients, they substituted affordable beef for veal, creating what we now know as this iconic country fried steak.
The dish gained popularity during the Great Depression when families needed to stretch inexpensive cuts of meat into satisfying meals. The hearty cream gravy, made from simple pantry staples, helped turn a modest portion of meat into a filling dinner that could feed the whole family.
Today, chicken fried steak with gravy remains a staple of Southern and Western American cuisine, beloved for its comfort food appeal and satisfying combination of textures and flavors. From truck stops to fine dining establishments, this versatile dish continues to evolve while maintaining its homestyle roots.
Mastering the Perfect Gravy
The cream gravy is arguably just as important as the steak itself in this chicken fried steak recipe. The key to smooth, flavorful gravy lies in using the leftover oil and browned bits from frying – these fond particles are packed with flavor that elevates your gravy from good to extraordinary.
Temperature control is crucial when making gravy. Keep the heat at medium to prevent the flour from burning, which would create a bitter taste. If your gravy becomes too thick, simply whisk in additional warm milk a little at a time. If it’s too thin, continue cooking while whisking until it reaches the desired consistency.
For those who prefer a lighter gravy, you can substitute half the milk with low-sodium chicken broth. This creates a slightly different flavor profile while reducing the richness somewhat.
Making It a Complete Meal Experience
Transform your homemade chicken fried steak dinner into a memorable family meal by embracing the full Southern dining experience. Set the table with classic sides that complement the rich, savory flavors of the main dish. The contrast between creamy mashed potatoes and crispy steak creates textural interest that keeps every bite exciting.
Consider making this easy chicken fried steak the centerpiece of a weekend brunch menu. Serve with hash browns and eggs for a hearty morning meal that will fuel the entire day. The combination works particularly well for special occasions or when hosting guests who appreciate comfort food classics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between chicken fried steak and country fried steak?
Chicken fried steak and country fried steak are essentially the same dish, with slight regional variations. Chicken fried steak typically uses a lighter, crispier coating similar to fried chicken, while country fried steak sometimes has a thicker batter. Both are served with cream gravy and represent the same beloved Southern comfort food tradition.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes! Try baking your chicken fried steak at 425°F for 15-20 minutes instead of frying, though you’ll sacrifice some crispiness. You can also use lean cuts of beef, substitute buttermilk with low-fat milk, and serve smaller portions with larger sides of vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
The key to coating that stays put is proper preparation. Let the breaded steaks rest for 10-15 minutes before frying, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350°F), and don’t move the steaks until it’s time to flip. The resting period allows the coating to set, while proper oil temperature creates immediate searing that locks everything in place.
Can I use different cuts of meat for this recipe?
While cube steak is traditional and produces the most authentic results, you can substitute with tenderized round steak, sirloin tip, or even pork cutlets. Whatever cut you choose, make sure to pound it to an even 1/4-inch thickness for consistent cooking and optimal tenderness.
How can I make chicken fried steak sandwiches?
Transform your leftover chicken fried steak into sandwiches by serving on toasted brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a drizzle of gravy. This creates a hearty, portable meal that’s perfect for lunch or casual dinners. Add cheese or bacon for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
This easy chicken fried steak recipe brings restaurant-quality comfort food straight to your dinner table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. The combination of perfectly seasoned, crispy coating and rich, creamy gravy creates a meal that satisfies both the stomach and soul. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or entertaining guests with authentic Southern dinner recipes, this foolproof method delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
The beauty of homemade chicken fried steak lies not just in its incredible taste, but in the memories it creates around the dinner table. There’s something magical about sharing this classic comfort food with the people you love, watching their faces light up with that first crispy, gravy-laden bite.
Have you tried this chicken fried steak recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and variations in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on social media. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other Southern dinner recipes including buttermilk biscuits, shrimp and grits, and classic cornbread.
Pin this recipe to your Pinterest boards and share it with friends who appreciate good old-fashioned comfort food. Happy cooking, and enjoy every crispy, creamy bite of your chicken fried steak with gravy!
