Chicken Fried Steak and Country Gravy

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Fried Steak and Country Gravy is a classic Southern comfort food that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with a rich, creamy gravy. The breaded, fried cube steak is perfectly seasoned and paired with a velvety homemade country gravy that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dinner, or as part of a special family meal, this dish brings bold flavors and warm memories to the table!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fried Steak:

• 1 lb. cube steak (tenderized)

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp salt

• 2 tsp black pepper

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper

• Canola oil for frying (enough to cover ¼ inch deep in the pan)

For the Country Gravy:

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)

• 2 tsp black pepper (more to taste)

• ½ tsp salt (more to taste)

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a cooling rack on top. Place this inside the oven to keep the steaks warm once they’re fried.

Season and Tenderize Steaks

Season the cube steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. Use a meat mallet or similar tool to pound the steaks thin.

Prepare Breading Station

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together 2 eggs and ½ cup milk.

2. In a separate shallow dish, combine 1 ½ cups flour, 2 tsp salt, 2 tsp black pepper, 2 tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp cayenne pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Coat the Steaks

1. Press the tenderized steaks into the flour mixture, coating both sides.

2. Shake off excess flour, then dip the steak in the egg mixture, coating both sides.

3. Return the steak to the flour mixture and coat again on both sides. Repeat with all steaks.

Fry the Steaks

1. Heat a heavy-bottomed pan (a cast iron skillet works well) over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan to a depth of about ¼ inch.

2. Once the oil reaches 350°F, add two steaks at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked to your liking.

3. Transfer the fried steaks to the wire rack in the oven to keep warm.

Make the Country Gravy

1. In the same pan, add ¼ cup flour to the leftover oil and drippings. Cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.

2. Slowly add 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

3. Season with 2 tsp black pepper and ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste). Let the gravy simmer and thicken for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Spoon the country gravy over the warm chicken fried steaks and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Gravy: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the gravy for a spicy kick.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with a breaded eggplant or mushroom for a vegetarian version of chicken fried “steak.”

• Cheese Gravy: Stir in a little grated cheese, like cheddar, for a creamy cheese gravy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken fried steak and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of milk if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat for chicken fried steak?

While cube steak is traditional, you can use other cuts of beef like sirloin or round steak, but be sure to tenderize them before frying.

2. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

You can prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop, adding a little milk if it thickens too much.

3. How do I prevent the breading from falling off while frying?

Make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the steaks to ensure a crispy, golden crust. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy breading.

4. Can I bake the chicken fried steak instead of frying it?

While frying gives the traditional crispy texture, you can bake the breaded steaks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, to make a healthier version.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or flour for the breading and a gluten-free flour blend for the gravy.

6. What can I serve with chicken fried steak and gravy?

Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn on the cob, or a simple side salad for a classic comfort meal.

7. Can I make the chicken fried steak spicier?

Yes, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some hot sauce to the breading for extra heat.

8. How do I know when the chicken fried steak is done frying?

The chicken fried steak is done when it is golden brown on both sides and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

9. Can I freeze the chicken fried steak?

Yes, you can freeze the fried steaks before adding the gravy. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) when ready to eat.

10. Can I make the chicken fried steak in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the breaded steaks in an air fryer at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak and Country Gravy is the epitome of Southern comfort food—crispy, tender, and deliciously indulgent. With golden-brown breading and a creamy, savory gravy, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with classic sides or enjoy it on its own, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave everyone asking for more!

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