Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a comforting dish that warms the heart. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. This Southern classic combines crispy, tender steak with rich, creamy gravy, making it a delightful meal everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a great way to bring a taste of the South into your kitchen. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a great meal for weekends or any day you crave comfort food. Your family will thank you for it!
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
Ingredients:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1 1⁄2 lbs)
- 1 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1⁄2 cup whole milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1⁄2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 1⁄2 teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper
Directions:
- Prepare the Coating: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk.
- Bread the Steaks: Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, dip it in the egg mixture, and then dredge it in the flour mixture again. Make sure to cover the steaks evenly and shake off any excess.
- Fry the Steaks: Heat vegetable oil (about 2 inches deep) in a cast iron pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Remove them and rest on a paper towel-lined plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Roux: In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until it’s golden brown. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture thickens.
- Season the Gravy: Remove from heat and stir in the salt and pepper.
- To Serve: Plate the steaks and generously ladle the gravy on top. Serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
Serve Chicken Fried Steak with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and some green beans or corn. This helps balance the rich flavors. You can also add a fresh salad to lighten the meal.
How to Store Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Tips to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
- For extra crispy steaks, let them rest after breading before frying.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks to ensure a crispy outside.
- You can adjust the seasoning in the gravy to your taste.
Variation (if any)
You can use chicken breasts instead of cube steaks for a lighter option. The cooking method will be the same, just adjust the frying time since chicken cooks differently.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen steak?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it fully before cooking for the best results.
2. How do I know when the steaks are done?
They should be golden brown. You can also use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
3. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the gravy ahead and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just stir it well to bring it back to a smooth consistency.