Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, Southern-style comfort meal, chicken fried steak is the perfect dish. Despite the name, it’s actually tenderized beef coated in seasoned flour, fried until crispy, and topped with rich, creamy gravy. This classic dish is known for its crunchy crust and flavorful white gravy, often served with mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

📝 Ingredients

For the Chicken Fried Steak

• 1½ cups whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp seasoned salt
• 1½ tsp black pepper
• ¾ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• 3 lbs cube steak (tenderized beef)
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Creamy Gravy

• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 3–4 cups whole milk
• ½ tsp seasoned salt
• Black pepper (to taste)

👉 This combination of seasoned flour, egg wash, and double dredging creates the signature crispy coating.

Also Read: Chicken Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three bowls:

1. Flour + spices
2. Milk + eggs (whisked)
3. Raw cube steaks

This “assembly line” ensures even coating and crispiness.

Step 2: Coat the Steak

• Season steak with salt and pepper
• Dip in flour → egg mixture → flour again
• Place on a plate and repeat

👉 Double coating gives a thick, crunchy crust when fried.

Step 3: Fry the Steak

• Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat
• Add butter for flavor
• Fry steaks (2–3 at a time)
• Cook ~2 minutes per side until golden brown
• Transfer to paper towel to drain

Step 4: Make the Gravy

• In the same pan, sprinkle flour into drippings
• Whisk until lightly golden
• Slowly add milk while whisking
• Cook until thick and smooth (5–10 minutes)
• Season with salt and black pepper

👉 This is a classic cream (country) gravy, made from pan drippings and milk.

Also Read: Chicken Parm Recipes

Step 5: Serve

Plate the crispy steak and pour warm gravy generously over the top. Traditionally served with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Biscuits or toast
• Vegetables

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

Values vary based on portion size and oil usage.

Also Read: Taco Seasoning Recipe Mexican

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Let coated steaks rest 10 minutes before frying (helps crust stick)
• Keep oil at medium heat—too hot burns coating
• Whisk gravy constantly to avoid lumps
• Add extra black pepper for authentic Southern flavor