This southern chicken fried steak recipe is a classic comfort food that features tenderized beef steak coated in a crispy breading and smothered in rich cream gravy. It’s a popular dish in Texas and is perfect for a hearty dinner.
With easy preparation and cooking techniques, this homemade chicken fried steak is sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for the best chicken fried steak recipe or ideas for a chicken fried steak dinner, this dish delivers satisfying flavors and textures.
Southern Chicken Fried Steak: A Comfort Food Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the appeal of a southern chicken fried steak. This classic recipe features tenderized beef steak, which is coated in a crispy breading and topped with rich cream gravy. Originating from Texas, this dish has become a beloved staple in many households, offering a satisfying meal that warms the heart.
The preparation of this homemade chicken fried steak is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a plate of crispy chicken fried steak with gravy that rivals any restaurant offering. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or looking for chicken fried steak dinner ideas, this dish is sure to impress.
Preparation and Cooking Techniques
To achieve the perfect southern chicken fried steak, start with quality beef cube steaks. These should be about half an inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender. The key to a successful breading is a well-seasoned flour mixture, which typically includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Setting up a breading station is essential for a smooth cooking process. You’ll need two bowls: one for the flour mixture and another for the egg wash, which consists of eggs and milk. This method ensures that each steak is thoroughly coated, resulting in a crispy exterior once fried.
Frying to Perfection
Frying the steaks is where the magic happens. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, and carefully place the breaded steaks in the hot oil. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they achieve that golden brown color that is so inviting.
Once cooked, it’s important to drain the steaks on paper towels to remove excess oil. This step helps maintain the crispiness of the breading and prevents the dish from becoming greasy.
Making the Creamy Gravy
The gravy is what truly elevates this dish. Using the same skillet, reduce the heat and add butter to create a rich base. Once melted, whisk in flour to create a roux, and gradually add milk while stirring continuously. This technique ensures a smooth and creamy gravy that perfectly complements the crispy chicken fried steak.
Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste, and don’t be shy about ladling it generously over the fried steaks. The combination of the savory gravy and the crispy steak is a match made in comfort food heaven.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve your chicken fried steak alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the gravy, while the green beans add a fresh crunch to the plate.
Garnishing the dish with chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall presentation. The rustic wooden table setting further emphasizes the southern charm of this comforting meal, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Final Thoughts on Chicken Fried Steak
This easy chicken fried steak and gravy recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it at a family dinner or sharing it with friends, the flavors and textures of this dish create lasting memories.
With its rich history and comforting qualities, the chicken fried steak remains a beloved dish in southern cuisine. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the best chicken fried steak recipe that will surely become a favorite in your household.
Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
This chicken fried steak features tenderized beef that is breaded and fried until golden brown, served with a creamy gravy. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people, making it an ideal choice for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
- 4 beef cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups milk (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for gravy)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Season the cube steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Bread the Steaks: Dip each steak into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Fry the Steaks: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Place the fried steaks on plates and generously ladle the cream gravy over them. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
