Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak is a classic Southern comfort dish made by breading and frying tenderized beef until golden and crispy, then topping it with creamy white gravy. Despite its name, this dish has no chicken—its name comes from the cooking method, which resembles that of fried chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate in hearty, home-style cooking. The crispy crust, tender beef, and rich gravy come together for a deeply satisfying meal. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but indulgent enough to serve on a special occasion. If you’re craving warmth, crunch, and comfort, this dish delivers every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cube steak

• All-purpose flour

• Seasoned salt

• Black pepper

• Paprika

• Cayenne pepper

• Buttermilk

• Eggs

• Vegetable oil

• Butter

• Whole milk

Directions

1. Set up dredging stations: In one shallow dish, combine flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne. In another, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.

2. Bread the steaks: Pat the cube steaks dry. Dip each steak into the flour mixture, then the buttermilk mixture, and again into the flour. Press the flour on well to ensure a thick, even coating. Let them rest for about 10 minutes.

3. Fry the steaks: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter for added flavor. Once the oil is hot (about 325°F), carefully place steaks in the pan. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

4. Make the gravy: Carefully discard most of the oil, leaving about 1/4 cup in the pan along with the browned bits. Whisk in some flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens into a smooth gravy. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve: Pour the warm gravy over the fried steaks and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken breasts or pork cutlets instead of beef for a different twist.

• Spice up the flour mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, or hot sauce in the buttermilk.

• Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy for a fragrant, savory layer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked steaks and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat steaks in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes until crisp. Warm the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.

FAQs

What kind of meat is used for chicken fried steak?

Chicken fried steak is typically made with cube steak, which is tenderized beef round or sirloin. It’s flattened and soft enough to fry quickly.

Can I use regular steak?

Yes, you can use thin cuts of sirloin or round steak. Tenderize the meat well with a mallet before breading.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Letting the breaded steak rest before frying helps the coating stick. Also, avoid flipping too early while cooking.

What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds tang and helps tenderize the meat. If unavailable, you can substitute with milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Can I make it in the oven?

While baking is an option, it won’t give the same crispiness as frying. Frying is recommended for best texture.

What sides go well with chicken fried steak?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, and biscuits are all classic choices.

How thick should the gravy be?

The gravy should be smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, but not too thick to pour.

Can I freeze chicken fried steak?

Yes. Freeze after breading (before frying) or freeze leftovers after cooking. Reheat in the oven for best results.

How do I avoid greasy steak?

Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying and don’t overcrowd the pan, which can drop the temperature and cause the steak to absorb excess oil.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak is a comforting, satisfying dish that brings crispy, creamy, and savory elements together in a single plate. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family meal or introducing it to guests, it’s a timeless recipe that never disappoints. Give it a try and enjoy a true Southern classic made right in your kitchen.