Chicken fried steak recipe is a classic Southern comfort food made with tenderized beef steak coated in seasoned breading and fried until crispy and golden. This chicken fried steak recipe is traditionally served with creamy country gravy, creating a hearty and satisfying meal packed with rich flavor and crunchy texture.
This chicken fried steak recipe is perfect for family dinners, weekend comfort meals, or anyone craving a classic Southern-style dish. With a crispy coating, juicy steak, and creamy gravy, it delivers the perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite.
Table of Contents
• Ingredients
• How to Make Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
• Pro Tips for Best Results
• Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fried Steak
• Nutritional Information
• Frequently Asked Questions
Why This Chicken Fried Steak Recipe Works
This chicken fried steak recipe is designed to create a crispy crust with tender, juicy steak inside.
• Double dredging creates extra crispiness
• Seasoned coating adds rich flavor
• Proper frying temperature prevents sogginess
• Homemade gravy adds classic Southern flavor
Ingredients
For the Steak
• 4 cube steaks
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup milk or buttermilk
• Oil for frying
For the Gravy
• 4 tablespoons pan drippings or butter
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 3–4 cups milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Sides
• Mashed potatoes
• Green beans
• Biscuits
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Pat cube steaks dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set Up Dredging Station
Mix flour and seasonings in one shallow bowl.
Whisk eggs and milk together in another bowl.
Step 3: Bread the Steaks
Coat steaks in seasoned flour, dip in egg mixture, then coat again in flour.
Let rest for 10 minutes before frying.
Step 4: Fry the Steaks
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry steaks for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
Whisk flour into pan drippings and cook briefly.
Slowly add milk while whisking continuously until thickened.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Serve
Serve steaks hot topped with gravy.
Pro Tips for Best Results
• Use cube steak for tenderness
• Let breading rest before frying
• Maintain steady oil temperature
• Do not overcrowd the pan
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fried Steak
Serve with:
• Mashed potatoes
• Biscuits
• Green beans
• Cornbread
This chicken fried steak recipe pairs well with dishes like this Honey Glazed Ham Recipe for a comforting Southern-style dinner spread.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 650–750 kcal
Protein: 35–40g
Carbohydrates: 40–50g
Fat: 35–45g
Sodium: High
Storage and Reheating
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best results:
• Reheat in the oven
• Keep gravy separate until serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called chicken fried steak?
The steak is breaded and fried using a method similar to fried chicken.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, though the texture will be less crispy than traditional frying.
How to Get a Crispy Coating
This chicken fried steak recipe depends on proper breading and frying technique.
Double dredging helps create a thicker crust that becomes crispy during frying. Allowing the breaded steaks to rest before cooking helps the coating stick better and reduces the risk of it falling off.
Maintaining the oil temperature around 350°F ensures even browning without absorbing excess oil.
How to Make Creamy Country Gravy
This chicken fried steak recipe includes a classic white country gravy that complements the crispy steak.
Using pan drippings adds flavor to the gravy base. Whisking flour into the drippings creates a roux that thickens the milk into a creamy sauce.
Freshly cracked black pepper is essential for authentic country gravy flavor.
Variations You Can Try
• Use chicken instead of beef
• Add hot sauce to the egg mixture
• Use spicy seasoning blend
• Serve with brown gravy instead
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Frying at the wrong temperature
• Skipping the resting step after breading
• Overcrowding the pan
• Under-seasoning the flour mixture
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This chicken fried steak recipe can be partially prepared ahead of time.
• Bread steaks ahead of cooking
• Refrigerate before frying
• Store leftovers up to 3 days
How to Turn This Into a Complete Meal
This chicken fried steak recipe works perfectly as the centerpiece of a full Southern-style dinner.
Serve it with mashed potatoes, vegetables, biscuits, or mac and cheese for a hearty comfort-food meal. Adding fresh vegetables or salad can help balance the richness of the fried steak and gravy.
This also makes an excellent option for family-style dinners and weekend comfort meals.
Final Thoughts
This chicken fried steak recipe is crispy, flavorful, and deeply comforting, making it a classic Southern meal that’s always satisfying.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
– Honey Glazed Ham Recipe
– Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf
– Steak Burrito Bowl Recipe
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Author Note
Dinners Recipe Team shares simple, reliable recipes designed for home cooks. Our goal is to make cooking easier while delivering flavorful, satisfying meals.
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