Name: Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 beef cube steaks (about 1/3 pound each); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup milk; Vegetable oil for frying; 2 tablespoons reserved frying oil; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; Salt and pepper to taste

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Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a Southern classic that's loved by many for its crispy, golden-brown breaded beef steak topped with creamy, homemade gravy. It’s comfort food at its finest and perfect for any meal when you're craving something hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients

4 beef cube steaks (about ⅓ pound each)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

2 eggs

¼ cup milk

Vegetable oil for frying

For the Gravy:

2 tablespoons reserved frying oil

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a shallow dish, I mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another dish, I whisk together the eggs and ¼ cup of milk.

I dip each steak first into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and again into the flour mixture, ensuring the steak is well-coated.

I heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I fry the steaks for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. After frying, I remove the steaks from the skillet and keep them warm.

For the gravy, I reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of the reserved frying oil to the skillet. I stir in the 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk until smooth.

I gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, scraping up any browned bits from the pan to incorporate all the flavors. I continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens to my desired consistency. I season it with salt and pepper to taste.

Finally, I serve the crispy steaks with the creamy gravy poured generously over the top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Chicken Fried Steak: To give your steak a spicy kick, you can add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Different Gravy: For a richer flavor, you can make a sausage gravy by cooking crumbled sausage in the skillet before making the gravy.

Healthy Twist: If you want a lighter version, try using a non-stick pan and a small amount of oil for frying, or opt for baked chicken fried steak.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the steak from the gravy to prevent the breading from getting soggy.

Reheating: To reheat, place the steak in a hot skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy again. Warm the gravy separately in a saucepan on the stove.

FAQs

How do I get the breading to stay on the steak?

To ensure the breading sticks, I make sure to coat the steak well in the flour mixture, dip it in the egg mixture, and coat it again in the flour. The double coating helps create that crispy outer layer.

Can I make this recipe without the gravy?

Yes, you can certainly enjoy the chicken fried steak without the gravy if you prefer a lighter version. The steak itself is flavorful and crispy enough to be eaten on its own, but the gravy adds a rich, creamy touch.

Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?

While the recipe is traditionally made with beef cube steaks, you can substitute chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the breading and gravy ingredients are all gluten-free as well.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, the gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove until warm.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is the perfect comfort food that I crave when I want something crispy, savory, and satisfying. The combination of the golden-brown breading and the rich, creamy gravy creates a meal that’s both indulgent and comforting. It’s an easy recipe that comes together quickly and will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Southern classic is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Recipe:

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a Southern classic that's loved for its crispy, golden-brown breaded beef steak topped with creamy, homemade gravy. It's comfort food at its finest and perfect for any meal when you're craving something hearty and satisfying.

Instructions

In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
In another dish, whisk together the eggs and ¼ cup of milk.
Dip each steak first into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and again into the flour mixture, ensuring the steak is well-coated.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the steaks for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the steaks from the skillet and keep them warm.
For the gravy, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of the reserved frying oil to the skillet. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk until smooth.
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, scraping up any browned bits from the pan to incorporate all the flavors. Cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens to the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the crispy steaks with the creamy gravy poured generously over the top.