Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic

When you think of Southern comfort food, one dish that undoubtedly comes to mind is Chicken Fried Steak with creamy gravy. This beloved dish encapsulates the warmth and simplicity of home-cooked meals that have been cherished for generations. Chicken Fried Steak is more than just food; it’s a hug on a plate after a long day’s work, a celebration of turning an affordable cut of beef into a tender, golden delight. This recipe, rooted in the rich culinary traditions of the South, is a must-have for anyone looking to bring the flavors of the region to their dinner table.

Originating from the blend of country cooking and influences from the German dish Wiener Schnitzel, Chicken Fried Steak has become a staple in Southern cuisine. It’s a dish that promises satisfaction, especially when paired with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy, lightly buttered green beans, or even a sweet corn on the cob. If you’re looking to take your comfort meal to the next level, a flaky biscuit on the side wouldn’t go amiss.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of making Southern Chicken Fried Steak with creamy gravy, offer some variations and tips, and answer some frequently asked questions. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 4 tenderized cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons of the leftover frying oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Flour Mixture

In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This seasoned flour will give the steak its flavorful, crispy coating.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash

In another shallow dish, beat 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup of milk together until well combined. This mixture will help the flour adhere to the steak, creating that perfect crunchy exterior.

Step 3: Bread the Steaks

Now it’s time to bread the steaks. Dredge each tenderized cube steak in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring that the steak is fully coated. Next, dip the steak into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, and then return it to the flour mixture for a second coating. This double-dip process is key to achieving a thick, crispy crust that’s synonymous with Chicken Fried Steak.

Step 4: Fry the Steaks

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil is ready when a small amount of flour sprinkled into it sizzles and begins to bubble immediately. Carefully place the breaded steaks into the hot oil, frying them for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the steaks to steam rather than fry. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

After frying the steaks, reserve about 2 tablespoons of the pan drippings in the skillet to make the gravy. Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the skillet and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, until the mixture turns a light golden brown. Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook and stir the gravy until it thickens to your desired consistency, usually about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

To serve, place the fried steaks on a plate and generously drizzle with the warm, creamy gravy. Pair the dish with your favorite Southern sides, like mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn on the cob, and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Variations & Tips

Spice It Up

• For a little extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. This will give the steak a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy gravy.

Chicken Fried Chicken

• If you’re feeling adventurous or simply prefer chicken, you can easily substitute the cube steaks with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The process remains the same, but you’ll end up with Chicken Fried Chicken, another Southern classic.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

• Chicken Fried Steak makes for excellent leftovers. To reheat, place the steaks on a wire rack in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy exterior, so you can enjoy that same crunch even the next day.

Serving Suggestions

• Balance out the richness of the dish by serving it with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty steak and gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern dish made from a tenderized cube steak that is breaded and fried, similar to fried chicken. It is typically served with creamy gravy and a variety of side dishes.

Can I use a different cut of beef for Chicken Fried Steak?

While cube steak is the traditional choice, you can use other cuts of beef, such as round steak or sirloin, as long as they are tenderized. Tenderizing the meat is essential to achieving the tender texture characteristic of Chicken Fried Steak.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off during frying?

To ensure the breading sticks to the steak, make sure to press the flour mixture firmly onto the meat during the breading process. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as this can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, leading to soggy, less crispy breading.

Can I make Chicken Fried Steak gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Chicken Fried Steak by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the seasonings and milk, are also gluten-free.

What can I do with leftover gravy?

Leftover gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for topping biscuits, mashed potatoes, or even reheated Chicken Fried Steak. To reheat, simply warm the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.

How do I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

To make the gravy thicker, you can cook it a bit longer, allowing more moisture to evaporate. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can thin it out by gradually adding more milk while whisking until you reach the desired consistency.

Conclusion

Southern Chicken Fried Steak with creamy gravy is a dish that brings the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals to your table. With its crispy exterior, tender meat, and rich gravy, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this Chicken Fried Steak recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the South. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your skillet, and get ready to indulge in this classic Southern delight.