When you think of Southern comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s Best Chicken Fried Steak – Crispy, Comforting, and Easy to Make! This classic dish is a golden, crispy masterpiece served with rich, creamy gravy. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a Sunday dinner, chicken fried steak is a recipe that’s sure to impress and satisfy.

Why Chicken Fried Steak Is a Must-Try Dish

There’s something magical about tender, seasoned beef wrapped in a crunchy coating and smothered in creamy gravy. This dish is:

• Crispy and Juicy: A perfect balance of textures.
• Full of Flavor: Each bite is packed with savory goodness.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, anyone can create this restaurant-quality meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you need for the ultimate chicken fried steak:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Beef cube steaks	4 (about ½ pound each)
All-purpose flour	2¼ cups (divided)
Baking powder	2 teaspoons
Baking soda	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	1 teaspoon
Kosher salt	¾ teaspoon
Buttermilk	1½ cups
Hot pepper sauce (e.g., Tabasco™)	1 tablespoon
Egg	1 large
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Vegetable shortening	3 cups (for frying)
Milk	4 cups
Kosher salt and pepper	To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Steaks

1. Place the steaks between two layers of plastic wrap.
2. Pound each steak with a meat mallet until they are about ¼ inch thick.

2. Set Up the Dredging Station

1. Place 2 cups of flour in a shallow bowl.
2. In another shallow bowl, combine:
   • Baking powder
   • Baking soda
   • 1 teaspoon black pepper
   • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
3. Whisk in:
   • Buttermilk
   • Hot pepper sauce
   • Egg
   • Minced garlic

3. Heat the Oil

1. In a deep cast-iron skillet, heat 3 cups of vegetable shortening to 325°F (165°C).
2. Place a wire rack over a sheet of parchment paper for draining the cooked steaks.

4. Bread the Steaks

1. Dredge each steak in the flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip into the buttermilk batter, letting the excess drip back into the bowl.
3. Dredge again in the flour, pressing to ensure an even coating.
4. Place breaded steaks on the wire rack.

5. Fry the Steaks

1. Fry the steaks in batches, cooking each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
2. Remove steaks from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
3. Cover with foil to keep warm while preparing the gravy.

6. Make the Gravy

1. Drain the skillet, reserving ¼ cup of the frying oil and any browned bits.
2. Return the skillet to medium-low heat.
3. Whisk in ¼ cup flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in 4 cups milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened (about 6-7 minutes).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve the Chicken Fried Steak

1. Transfer the steaks to a serving platter.
2. Pour the gravy over the top or serve on the side for dipping.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Steak

1. Use Cube Steaks

Cube steaks are already tenderized, making them perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find them, you can use round steaks and pound them thin yourself.

2. Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature

Maintaining the oil at 325°F is crucial for even cooking and a crispy coating. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

3. Don’t Skip the Double Dredge

Coating the steaks twice ensures a thick, crispy crust that holds up to the gravy.

4. Make the Gravy from Pan Drippings

The browned bits left in the skillet add a depth of flavor to the gravy that’s hard to replicate.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	520
Total Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	100mg
Sodium	780mg
Total Carbohydrates	40g
Protein	25g

Creative Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Fried Steak

Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.

2. Gluten-Free Version

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the baking powder and soda are gluten-free.

3. Buttermilk Ranch Gravy

Mix ranch seasoning into the gravy for a tangy twist.

4. Chicken Fried Steak Bites

Cut the cube steaks into smaller pieces for bite-sized appetizers.

FAQ

1. Can I make chicken fried steak in advance?

Yes! You can bread the steaks ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before frying.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

3. Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Substitute the cube steaks with chicken breasts pounded thin.

4. What can I serve with chicken fried steak?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttered corn make excellent side dishes.

5. Why is my coating falling off?

Ensure the steaks are dry before breading and press the flour coating firmly onto the meat.

6. Can I bake instead of fry?

While frying gives the crispiest texture, you can bake the steaks at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Try This Southern Classic Today!

With its crispy coating and rich, creamy gravy, Best Chicken Fried Steak – Crispy, Comforting, and Easy to Make! is the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s your first time making it or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients and bring a taste of the South to your table today!

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