A Southern Comfort Classic

Chicken fried steak is a beloved Southern dish that combines crispy, golden-brown breading with tender, seasoned beef, all smothered in rich, creamy white gravy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating the ultimate comfort food at home. Let’s explore how to make the best chicken fried steak!

🥩 Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best chicken fried steak:

• 4 pieces of cube steak 🥩

• 1 cup all-purpose flour 🌾

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 🌽

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder 🧄

• 1 teaspoon onion powder 🧅

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 🌶️

• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂

• 2 large eggs 🥚

• 1 cup buttermilk 🥛

• Vegetable oil for frying 🍳

• 2 tablespoons butter 🧈

• 1 cup whole milk 🥛

• 1/4 cup heavy cream 🍶

🍳 Preparation Method

Step 1: Tenderize and Season the Meat

To begin, tenderize the cube steaks using a meat mallet until they’re about 1/2 inch thick. Tenderizing the meat ensures it’s juicy and easy to chew. Season both sides of the steak generously with salt and pepper.

For added tenderness and flavor, marinate the steaks in buttermilk for at least an hour or overnight. Bon Appétit recommends this step to enhance the steak’s texture and flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoned flour creates the perfect crispy coating for the chicken fried steak.

In another bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together until fully combined. This mixture helps the breading adhere better to the steak, ensuring a golden, crispy crust.

Step 3: Bread the Steaks

Dip each seasoned steak into the flour mixture, pressing it down gently to coat evenly. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and return it to the flour mixture for a final coating. Make sure the breading sticks well to the steak.

Step 4: Fry the Steaks

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the breaded steaks for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. The key to perfect chicken fried steak is ensuring the oil is hot enough to fry the breading without burning it. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain optimal oil temperature.

Once fried, remove the steaks from the skillet and drain them on paper towels.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the leftover flour mixture and whisk it until golden brown, forming a roux. Slowly add in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to achieve a smooth and creamy gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

💡 Tips and Tricks

• Rest the Meat: After breading, let the steaks rest for about 10 minutes before frying. This helps the breading set, creating a crispier coating.

• Oil Temperature: Keep the oil temperature around 350°F for the perfect fry. If the oil is too hot, the breading will burn, and if it’s too cool, the steak will become greasy.

• Gravy Secrets: For a richer gravy, use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream to achieve the perfect consistency.

🍳 Variations and Substitutions

• Healthier Option: For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or cornmeal for the breading. You can also air fry the breaded steak for a lower-fat version.

• Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading mixture for a spicy version of chicken fried steak.

• Vegetarian Alternative: Try substituting the cube steak with a plant-based meat substitute, or use a large portobello mushroom cap for a vegetarian-friendly version.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken fried steak with classic Southern sides like:

• Mashed potatoes 🥔

• Fried okra 🍤

• Collard greens 🌿

• Cornbread 🍞

For the ultimate experience, pour your creamy white gravy generously over the steak and potatoes. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor!

🙋‍♂️ FAQs

What’s the difference between chicken fried steak and country fried steak?
Chicken fried steak is typically served with white gravy, while country fried steak comes with brown gravy. The cooking methods are quite similar, but the sauces differ.

Can I use other cuts of meat?
Yes! You can use top round, sirloin, or eye of round cuts. Just be sure to tenderize them before breading.

Do I have to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat and adds a slight tang, but you can use regular milk or a milk substitute if you prefer.

Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?
You can bread the steaks in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry them. However, for the crispiest results, it’s best to fry them fresh.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the gravy?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using whole milk or a milk-and-butter combo as a substitute for heavy cream.

✨ Conclusion

Making the best chicken fried steak at home doesn’t have to be difficult—it’s all about using the right ingredients, mastering the breading technique, and creating that rich, creamy gravy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or treating yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe will definitely impress!

Try it out today, and feel free to leave a comment below sharing your thoughts or any variations you made. We’d love to hear about your experience! 😋