Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food that'll transport you straight to a cozy Southern kitchen! Chicken Fried Steak is more than just a meal - it's a culinary experience that combines crispy, golden-brown breading with tender beef and a luxuriously creamy white gravy. This iconic American dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that transforms an ordinary cut of meat into a mouthwatering masterpiece that'll have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pieces of cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour (for gravy)
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoned flour mixture by combining 1 cup all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk to create a wet dredging mixture. Beat until well combined and smooth.
- Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the breading adhere better.
- Dredge each cube steak first in the seasoned flour mixture, coating completely and shaking off any excess flour. Then dip into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.
- Return the steak to the seasoned flour mixture for a second coating, pressing gently to create a thick, crispy breading.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, about 1/4 inch deep.
- Carefully place the breaded steaks into the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Remove steaks and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Keep warm in a low-temperature oven.
- For the gravy, reduce skillet heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, sprinkle 1/4 cup flour into the pan, whisking constantly to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps. Simmer and stir until the gravy thickens to desired consistency, about 3-5 minutes.
- Season gravy with additional salt and pepper to taste. If too thick, thin with additional milk; if too thin, continue cooking to reduce.
- Pour the white gravy over the chicken fried steaks and serve immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Pat your cube steaks completely dry before breading to ensure maximum crispiness
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the most even and authentic cooking experience
- Double-dredging is key - the extra flour coating creates an incredibly crunchy exterior
- Make sure your oil is hot (around 350°F) before adding the steaks to prevent soggy breading
- Let the steaks rest on a wire rack after frying to maintain their crisp texture
- Whisk your gravy constantly to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency
- Season your gravy generously - don't be afraid to adjust salt and pepper to taste
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 180mg
