If you’re craving a hearty and indulgent meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds, look no further than Southern Chicken Fried Steak. This iconic Southern dish features tender cube steaks coated in a crispy breading and smothered in a rich and creamy gravy. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just craving some down-home comfort food, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to make some delicious Chicken Fried Steak that will transport you straight to the heart of the South!
Introduction
Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved Southern classic that has been enjoyed by generations. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender steak with a crispy coating and creamy gravy. Whether served for breakfast with eggs and biscuits or as the main course for dinner, Chicken Fried Steak is always a crowd-pleaser. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make this Southern favorite from scratch, including tips for achieving the perfect crispy coating and creamy gravy.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 4 cube steaks, 4 to 6 ounces each
- 2 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus 2 tablespoons
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Egg Wash:
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
For Frying and Gravy:
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Season the cube steaks on both sides with 1 teaspoon of salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- In a shallow dish, combine 2 cups of flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk.
Step 3: Bread the Steak
- Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured steak into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat the steak once again in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 4: Fry the Steak
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the breaded steaks in the hot oil and fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
- Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the oil from the skillet.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Cook the gravy, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the chicken fried steak hot with the creamy gravy spooned over the top.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Tenderizing the Steak: If your cube steaks are on the thicker side, you can tenderize them by pounding them with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
- Adding Flavor: For extra flavor, you can season the flour mixture with your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Creamier Gravy: For a creamier gravy, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
Keto and Low Carb Version
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this recipe, you can replace the all-purpose flour and cornmeal with a combination of almond flour and crushed pork rinds. You can also use a low-carb milk alternative, such as almond milk or coconut milk, in place of regular milk for the gravy.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of steak? A: While cube steak is traditionally used for Chicken Fried Steak, you can use other cuts of steak, such as round steak or sirloin steak, if desired.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While Chicken Fried Steak is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the steaks in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry. You can also make the gravy ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Q: What should I serve with Chicken Fried Steak? A: Chicken Fried Steak pairs well with classic Southern sides such as mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, cornbread, and coleslaw.
In conclusion, Southern Chicken Fried Steak is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy coating, tender steak, and creamy gravy, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving some down-home Southern comfort food, this recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, follow our easy instructions, and enjoy a taste of the South with this classic dish!
