Name: Chicken Fried Steak
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 beef cube steaks; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying); Gravy (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved comfort food that brings a taste of Southern charm to your dinner table. This breaded and fried beef dish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, often topped with a creamy gravy that elevates it to a whole new level. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus at least 30 minutes marinating time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 470
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 600mg

Why Make This Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak is the ultimate comfort food that satisfies both cravings for something crispy and savory. The combination of tender beef, a crunchy coating, and rich gravy makes it a hit for everyone at the dinner table. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms hearts and creates lasting memories. Plus, it’s relatively easy to whip up, making it an accessible dish for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

How to Make Chicken Fried Steak

Getting this classic dish on your table is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these easy steps for a delicious result that will impress your family or guests.

Ingredients:

4 beef cube steaks
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Gravy (optional)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Tenderize the cube steaks using a meat mallet. Then, soak them in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the meat while adding flavor.
Step 2: Mixing

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Dredging

After the steaks have soaked, remove them from the buttermilk. Dredge each steak thoroughly in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated for that perfect crispy crunch.
Step 4: Cooking

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until it’s shimmering. Fry the coated steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color.
Step 5: Finishing

Once cooked, drain the steaks on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with gravy poured over, if desired.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak

Serve Chicken Fried Steak with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw. A drizzle of homemade gravy adds an extra layer of flavor, making every bite delectable. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness!

How to Store Chicken Fried Steak

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use an air fryer for a few minutes to retain that crispy texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Steak

For extra tender steak, let it soak in buttermilk overnight if time allows.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks; this prevents them from becoming greasy. A drop of flour in the oil should sizzle immediately.
If you want to amp up the flavor, add some cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mixture for a bit of heat.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Chicken Fried Steak: Add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the flour mixture for a kick.
Herbed Version: Mix in some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Baked Instead of Fried: For a healthier option, bake the dredged steaks in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts, following the same soaking and dredging process.
What is the best oil for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great options due to their high smoke points.
Can I make the gravy from scratch?
Absolutely! Use the leftover frying oil to create a simple gravy by whisking in flour and milk.
What can I serve with chicken fried steak?
Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or mac and cheese pair beautifully with this dish.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure the ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak is a comforting classic that’s sure to delight anyone who loves a hearty meal. With a tender, flavorful steak coated in a deliciously crispy layer, you’ll create a dish that family and friends will remember. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or as a weekday comfort, this recipe is one that deserves a spot in your meal rotation. So grab your ingredients and start cooking—this Southern staple will quickly become a favorite in your home!