Is there anything more satisfying than biting into a perfectly golden, crispy, and tender piece of chicken fried steak? This Southern classic isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Known for its rich history and indulgent flavors, chicken fried steak recipe, or country fried steak, has long been a staple on dinner tables across the United States.
The contrast of textures—the crunch of the breading against the melt-in-your-mouth steak—is irresistible. Top it off with creamy, savory gravy, and you’ve got a dish that’s hearty, comforting, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking it for a special family dinner or simply indulging in a taste of the South, this recipe will deliver every time.
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak is a beloved Southern dish that brings the best of both worlds: crispy fried coating and tender beef. Contrary to its name, it doesn’t contain chicken. Instead, the name comes from the cooking method, which mimics the preparation of fried chicken. This dish typically features tenderized cuts of beef, such as cube steak, coated in a seasoned batter and fried to golden perfection. It’s then served with creamy white gravy made from pan drippings, adding a luscious touch to its hearty flavor profile.
Originating in the United States, chicken fried steak has roots in German and Austrian immigrant cuisine, particularly dishes like schnitzel. Over time, it evolved into a Southern staple, celebrated for its comforting and satisfying qualities.
How to Choose the Perfect Steak for Chicken Fried Steak:
The key to a tender and flavorful chicken fried steak lies in selecting the right cut of meat. Here’s what to look for:
- Cube Steak: This is the most popular choice for its tenderness and ease of cooking. The meat is pre-tenderized, ensuring it remains juicy and easy to bite into.
- Sirloin or Round Steak: If cube steak isn’t available, opt for thin cuts of sirloin or round steak and tenderize them with a meat mallet.
- Avoid Overly Thick Cuts: The steak should be about ½ inch thick to cook evenly and achieve the perfect crispy-to-juicy ratio.
- Fat Content Matters: A bit of marbling is fine, but avoid cuts with excessive fat or gristle, as it can make frying uneven.
Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium4
servings15
minutes30
minutes450
kcalThis chicken fried steak recipe, also known as country fried steak, is a Southern classic that combines tender, breaded beef steak with a crispy golden crust, smothered in creamy gravy. Perfect for family dinners or comforting meals!
Ingredients
- For the Steak
4 cube steaks (about 4–6 oz each)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Gravy
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp butter
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Optional: Use a third bowl for breadcrumbs to add extra crispiness.
- Step 2: Bread the Steaks
- Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Dip the steak into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
- Finally, coat the steak with flour again or breadcrumbs for added texture.
- Step 3: Fry the Steaks
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry each steak for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Step 4: Make the Gravy
- Discard excess oil, leaving about 2–3 tbsp in the skillet.
- Add flour to the skillet, stirring constantly until golden brown.
- Slowly whisk in milk, continuing to stir until thickened.
- Add salt, pepper, and butter, cooking for another minute.
- Step 5: Serve
- Plate the fried steaks and generously pour gravy over the top.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits for a complete meal.
Notes
- Cube steaks are preferred for their tenderness, but you can use sirloin or round steak if needed.
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best heat retention and frying results.
- If your gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Steak:
- Season Your Flour Generously: A well-seasoned flour mixture ensures every bite is flavorful. Add cayenne or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
- Use the Right Oil: Vegetable oil with a high smoke point works best for frying. Avoid olive oil as it may burn at high temperatures.
- Keep Your Oil Temperature Steady: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F for consistent crispiness.
- Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: For an irresistibly crispy coating, dredge the steak twice before frying.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Allow the fried steaks to rest on a wire rack for a few minutes to preserve their crunch.
Recipe Variants:
- Spicy Chicken Fried Steak: Add cayenne pepper and chili powder to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
- Buttermilk Soak: Marinate the steak in buttermilk for an hour before dredging to add tenderness and tangy flavor.
- Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake the breaded steaks in the oven at 400°F until golden and crisp.
- Air Fryer Method: Use an air fryer to achieve the same crispy texture with less oil.
Recipe Proposition:
Looking for another comfort food classic? Try our Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe, a perfect side dish to complement your chicken fried steak!
FAQ:
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or a mix of almond and rice flour for a similar texture.
You can bread the steaks a few hours in advance and refrigerate them. Fry them fresh for the best results.
Use a wire rack to drain excess oil instead of paper towels. This prevents steaming and keeps the coating crunchy.
Nutrition Information:
While chicken fried steak is an indulgent treat, moderation is key to enjoying its flavors guilt-free. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
Health Benefits of Chicken Fried Steak:
- Protein-Packed Meal: The steak provides high-quality protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
- Iron Source: Red meat is rich in iron, which is essential for maintaining energy and preventing anemia.
- Calcium from Gravy: If made with milk, the creamy gravy adds calcium to your diet for stronger bones.
While this dish is high in calories and fat, occasional indulgence as part of a balanced diet can satisfy cravings and contribute to an enjoyable meal experience.
What to Pair with Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its crispy texture and rich flavor:
- Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: A classic pairing that soaks up the creamy white gravy perfectly.
- Collard Greens or Green Beans: Add a touch of freshness and a pop of color to your plate with these traditional Southern sides.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy and buttery, these are perfect for mopping up every last drop of gravy.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Indulge in a double comfort food experience with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese.
- Coleslaw: The tanginess of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich steak.
- Cornbread: Sweet or savory, cornbread adds a delightful crumbly texture to your meal.
For beverages, pair this dish with iced tea or lemonade to balance its hearty richness. Finish off the meal with a slice of pecan pie or peach cobbler for a quintessential Southern experience.
Chicken fried steak isn’t just a recipe—it’s a bite into Southern heritage. Whether you’re revisiting family traditions or exploring new flavors, this country fried steak recipe promises to delight. With its crispy coating, tender steak, and rich, creamy gravy, this dish delivers on every front. Pair it with mashed potatoes, collard greens, or fluffy buttermilk biscuits for a comforting feast.
As you enjoy this iconic recipe, remember: cooking is all about creating memories and bringing people together. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe transport you to the heart of Southern comfort food.
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