Chicken Fried Steak is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring tender beef cube steaks, breaded and fried to a crispy golden brown, then smothered in a creamy homemade gravy. This recipe delivers a satisfying, hearty meal perfect for dinner.
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
For the Steak
4 beef cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
Oil for frying (about 1/2 cup)
For the Gravy
1/4 cup drippings from frying
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika until well combined.
Beat Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk 2 large eggs with 1/4 cup milk until the mixture is smooth.
Coat Steaks: Dip each beef cube steak first into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly on both sides.
Fry Steaks: Heat enough oil in a large skillet over medium heat to cover the bottom. Once hot, add the coated steaks and fry for about 4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is crispy and golden brown. Remove steaks and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make Gravy: Drain most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 1/4 cup of drippings. Whisk in 1/4 cup flour and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Gradually add 2 cups of milk in small increments, whisking continuously until the gravy thickens and is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Plate the fried steaks and spoon the hot gravy generously over the top. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
Use cube steaks about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking and tenderness.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent greasy coating—around medium heat is ideal.
For a richer gravy, you can use whole milk or add a little butter after thickening.
If the gravy becomes too thick, thin it with a splash more milk to reach desired consistency.
Serve with mashed potatoes or green beans for a classic Southern meal.
