Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

Introduction

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a Southern classic that features tenderized beef, coated in a crispy, seasoned batter and fried to golden perfection. Topped with rich and creamy country-style gravy, this dish is the ultimate comfort food, often served with mashed potatoes or biscuits for a hearty meal.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Despite its name, Chicken Fried Steak has no chicken in it! The name comes from the cooking method, which is similar to fried chicken. This dish traces its roots to German and Austrian immigrants who brought schnitzel-style cooking to the Southern United States. Over time, it evolved into a staple of Southern cuisine, particularly in Texas, where it’s often found in diners and home kitchens alike.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Chicken Fried Steak:

• 4 cube steaks (tenderized beef steaks)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Country Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter or pan drippings
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Optional Additions

• ½ teaspoon hot sauce (in the buttermilk mixture for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for a richer taste in the batter)
• Fresh herbs like parsley for garnish
• A pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor

Tips for Success

• Tenderize the steak well: Cube steak is already tenderized, but giving it a few extra whacks with a meat mallet helps create an even texture.
• Double-dredge for extra crispiness: Coat the steak in flour, dip in the egg mixture, then coat in flour again for a thicker, crunchier crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches so the oil stays hot and ensures a crispy crust.
• Use a thermometer: The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for the perfect fry.
• Rest before serving: Let the steaks sit on a wire rack for a few minutes after frying to keep them crispy.

Instructions

For the Chicken Fried Steak:

1. Prepare the dredging station: In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk eggs with buttermilk.
2. Coat the steak: Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it again in flour for a double-crust effect.
3. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the steaks: Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil, frying for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

For the Country Gravy:

1. Make a roux: In the same pan, remove excess oil, leaving about 3 tablespoons of drippings. Add butter and flour, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes.
2. Add milk: Slowly whisk in milk, stirring continuously until thickened. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
3. Simmer and serve: Let the gravy cook for a couple of minutes until smooth and creamy. Pour over the fried steaks and serve hot.

Description

This Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is the definition of Southern indulgence. The steak is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in a rich, peppery gravy that perfectly complements every bite. Whether served with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or fried eggs, this dish is pure comfort on a plate.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 680
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 920mg

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a classic Southern dish that delivers both crunch and comfort. The crispy fried coating, paired with a smooth and savory gravy, creates a meal that’s satisfying, hearty, and full of flavor.

Recommendation

Serve this dish with mashed potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, or buttermilk biscuits for the ultimate Southern feast. A side of pickled jalapeños or hot sauce can add an extra kick.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, try baking the steaks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also use an air fryer for a healthier alternative while still achieving a crispy crust. Additionally, using whole wheat flour or a milk alternative for the gravy can slightly reduce the calorie content while keeping the flavors intact.