Description
This Chicken Fried Steak is the ultimate Southern comfort food. Tender cube steak is coated in a perfectly seasoned breading, fried until golden brown, and smothered in rich, creamy country gravy. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with classic down-home flavors. Serve it with mashed potatoes or fluffy biscuits for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Ingredients
For the Steaks:
-
- 4 cube steaks (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Gravy:
-
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken stock or broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Steaks:
- In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup flour, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
- Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels.
- Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and again into the flour, ensuring an even coating.
-
Cook the Steaks:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the coated steaks to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
-
Prepare the Gravy:
- Without cleaning the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons of flour to the remaining oil and drippings.
- Stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook the flour.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Add the milk, continuing to whisk until the gravy is smooth and begins to thicken, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
-
Serve:
- Plate the chicken fried steaks and generously spoon the creamy gravy over each.
- Serve immediately, ideally with mashed potatoes or your choice of side.
Notes
- Rest Before Frying: Let the coated steaks sit for 10 minutes before frying to help the breading stick.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep oil at 350°F to ensure even frying without burning the crust.
- Air Fryer Option: Spray coated steaks with cooking spray and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for crispiness.
- Make It Spicy: Add extra cayenne pepper to the breading for a spicier kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: Southern