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Chicken Fried Steak

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Chicken Fried Steak is a classic Southern dish featuring tenderized steak coated in a seasoned, crispy batter and fried to golden perfection. Served with creamy country gravy, this hearty and satisfying comfort food is a staple at family dinners and beloved for its indulgent flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak:

  • 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Gravy:

  • 3 tbsp reserved frying oil (or butter)
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cube Steaks:
    • Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels.
    • Season both sides of the steaks with salt and black pepper.
  • Set Up the Dredging Station:
    • In one shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
    • In another shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
  • Coat the Steaks:
    • Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess.
    • Dip the steak into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
    • Return the steak to the flour mixture and press firmly to ensure a thick, even coating. Set aside on a plate.
  • Fry the Steaks:
    • Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
    • Fry the steaks in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
    • Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 3 tablespoons of frying oil for the gravy.
  • Make the Gravy:
    • In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the reserved frying oil.
    • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
    • Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
    • Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve:
    • Serve the chicken fried steaks hot, smothered in creamy gravy. Pair with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or green beans for a complete Southern meal.

Notes

  • Cube steak is traditionally used for this recipe, but you can tenderize other cuts like round steak if needed.
  • For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: Chicken Fried Steak, Southern chicken fried steak, classic fried steak, crispy steak recipe, fried steak with gravy, country-style steak, comfort food recipes, chicken fried steak with gravy

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