Irresistible Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe

The aroma of sizzling, golden-brown chicken fried steak fills the air, teasing your senses with its crunchy coating and tender meat. Drizzled with creamy gravy, this Southern classic is a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul.

When I first tasted chicken fried steak, it was love at first bite. I remember my grandmother making it on lazy Sunday afternoons, filling our home with nostalgia and deliciousness. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Round Steak: Look for a tender cut like top round or sirloin for the best texture.

• Buttermilk: This adds moistness and a slight tang, helping to tenderize the meat beautifully.

• All-Purpose Flour: A must for creating that irresistible crispy coating; feel free to season it!

• Eggs: Two large eggs help the flour adhere to the steak, creating a perfect crust.

• Vegetable Oil: Use enough oil for frying; it should reach about half an inch deep in your pan.

• Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning; these basics truly elevate the flavor profile.

For the Gravy:

• Butter: Essential for making a rich roux that forms the base of your gravy.

• Additional Flour: You’ll need some extra flour mixed into the butter to thicken the gravy perfectly.

• Milk: Whole milk creates a creamy texture; use low-fat if you’re feeling adventurous but know it’ll be less rich.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Fried Steak

Marinate the Steak

Start by marinating your beef round steak in buttermilk for at least one hour. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with flavor. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare other ingredients.

Bread the Steak

In one bowl, whisk together eggs and seasonings. In another bowl, mix flour with salt and pepper. Remove steaks from buttermilk and dip them into egg wash before coating them generously in flour. Ensure every inch is covered!

Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering—about 350°F is ideal. Gently place breaded steaks into the hot oil without crowding them. Fry until golden brown on both sides—about three to four minutes per side.

Prepare the Gravy

Remove cooked steaks from skillet and keep warm on a plate lined with paper towels. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in additional flour until you form a smooth roux—cook for about two minutes until lightly browned.

Add Milk and Seasoning

Gradually whisk in milk while stirring continuously until thickened—this usually takes about five minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste; it’ll be creamy goodness!

Serve your chicken fried steak hot, drizzled generously with that luscious gravy over top! Pair it with mashed potatoes or greens for an unforgettable Southern meal experience. Enjoy every crunchy bite while reminiscing about those cherished family moments!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the Chicken Fried Steak first to achieve that golden crust, then prepare the gravy while it rests. This way, you ensure everything comes together smoothly and deliciously. Trust me, no one wants cold gravy on hot steak!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the seasoning in the breading with your favorites—garlic powder or Cajun spice work wonders! You can also try adding some chopped herbs like parsley for a fresh kick. Make it yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain that crispy texture. No microwave sogginess here!

I remember making Chicken Fried Steak for my family’s Sunday dinner. The look on my mom’s face when she took that first bite was priceless—it’s safe to say I’ve been “the hero” ever since!

FAQs :

What is Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken fried steak is a Southern comfort food dish made by breading and frying tenderized beef steak. The meat is typically coated in seasoned flour, then pan-fried until crispy and golden brown. It is often served with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw. This dish combines the tenderness of steak with the crunchiness of fried food, making it a favorite among many who enjoy hearty meals.

How do I make the best Chicken Fried Steak?

To make the best chicken fried steak, start with a quality cut of beef such as cube steak or sirloin. Tenderize the meat thoroughly to ensure it cooks evenly. Season your flour mixture generously for added flavor. Fry in a hot skillet with oil until golden brown for that perfect crispy texture. Don’t forget to prepare a rich, creamy gravy to serve on top for an authentic experience.

Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?

While traditional chicken fried steak uses beef, you can certainly adapt the recipe using chicken. Simply pound chicken breasts to an even thickness and follow the same breading and frying process as you would with steak. The result will be deliciously crispy chicken that retains the spirit of this classic dish while offering a lighter alternative.

What sides go well with Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken fried steak pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw. You can also serve it with biscuits or cornbread to soak up the gravy. For a refreshing touch, consider adding a simple salad or sautéed vegetables to balance out the richness of this indulgent meal.

Conclusion for Chicken Fried Steak :

In summary, chicken fried steak is a beloved Southern dish that combines tenderized beef with a crispy coating and creamy gravy. Making this dish requires attention to detail in both preparation and cooking techniques to ensure optimal flavor and texture. Whether you serve it alongside comforting sides or adapt it using chicken, this recipe offers heartwarming satisfaction for any meal occasion. Enjoy your homemade chicken fried steak as an indulgent treat any night of the week!

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Chicken Fried Steak

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken fried steak is a delightful Southern comfort dish featuring tender beef coated in a crispy crust, generously smothered with rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavors that are sure to impress. Experience the nostalgia of homemade meals as you savor every crunchy bite topped with luscious gravy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound beef round steak (top round or sirloin)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter (for gravy)
• 1/4 cup additional flour (for gravy)
• 2 cups whole milk

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Instructions

1. Marinate the steak in buttermilk for at least 1 hour to tenderize and infuse flavor.
2. In one bowl, whisk eggs and seasonings. In another bowl, mix flour with salt and pepper.
3. Remove steaks from buttermilk, dip into egg wash, and coat thoroughly with seasoned flour.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded steaks until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. For the gravy, melt butter in the same skillet, whisk in additional flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk while stirring until thickened.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy (250g)
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Customize seasoning in your flour by adding garlic powder or spices for extra flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently in a skillet to maintain crispiness.