Irresistible Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
Chicken Fried Steak is a classic Southern comfort food featuring tenderized beef steaks that are breaded and fried to golden perfection. Served with a rich, creamy gravy, this hearty dish is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Despite its name, it’s made with beef, not chicken, but the cooking method is similar to fried chicken.
- Author: Mason Recipes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
For the Steak:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Gravy:
- 3 tbsp reserved frying oil or butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Cube Steaks:
- Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels.
- Season the steaks on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set Up the Dredging Station:
- In one shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- Coat the Steaks:
- Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the steak into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Return the steak to the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to create a thick, even coating. Place the coated steaks on a plate.
- Fry the Steaks:
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the steaks in batches, cooking each side for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove the steaks and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve 3 tablespoons of frying oil for the gravy.
- Make the Gravy:
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the reserved frying oil to the skillet.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring to remove any lumps. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, until thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken fried steak hot, topped with the creamy gravy. Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits for a full Southern meal.
Notes
- Cube steak is the traditional cut used for this recipe, but you can substitute with round steak or sirloin and tenderize it yourself.
- Adjust the seasoning in the breading to your taste for a spicier or milder flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Keywords: Chicken Fried Steak, Southern fried steak, crispy breaded steak, chicken fried steak with gravy, comfort food recipe, classic Southern dish, easy fried steak recipe.