Eating a crispy Chicken Fried Steak is deeply comforting. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. In the South, where I grew up, comfort food was part of our family traditions. The sizzling Chicken Fried Steak with cream gravy was the star.
Every mouthful takes me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and the scent of frying steak. Our kitchen buzzed with activity. Steaks were pounded thin, and sides like collard greens and black-eyed peas were prepped. Those moments made the dish more than just food; they made it a cherished memory.
I’m going to show you how to make this favorite dish. It only takes 45 minutes and some basic ingredients. You’ll need cube steak, all-purpose flour, and buttermilk to bring the Southern comfort food vibe to your kitchen.
The recipe includes a 3-step dredging for a golden crust. It also has a mix of spices like garlic powder and black pepper. This will bring a plateful of delightful nostalgia to your table.
Introduction to Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a top favorite in Southern cooking. It’s known for its crispy outside and full flavors. This comfort dish usually uses a cheaper beef cut, like cube steak. It gets tenderized, battered, and deep-fried. The end result? A super crunchy outside paired with creamy white gravy.
It’s different from country-fried steak, which comes with brown gravy. Chicken fried steak always comes with a rich, cream gravy. This difference adds to the dish’s depth and highlights Southern cooking’s evolution. 
The story of chicken fried steak begins with German immigrants in Texas. They brought their schnitzel recipes from Austria and Germany. Local ingredients were used to adapt these European frying methods. Now, we get to enjoy this tasty dish.
It first showed up in cookbooks in the late 1800s. By the early 20th century, it was a common item in restaurants.
On October 26, we celebrate National Chicken Fried Steak Day. This started in Texas in 2011. The history and growth of chicken fried steak shows why it’s a beloved Southern food. It represents a rich food tradition and regional pride.
The Perfect Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
Searching for the ultimate comfort food? Your search ends here with this chicken fried steak recipe. It’s got the flavors and crispy texture you crave. Follow these steps for a crispy, golden crust that’s tender and delicious.
To nail the chicken fried steak, it’s all about preparation and cooking correctly. First, organize your workspace:
- Milk and eggs mixed together
- Flour seasoned with spices
- Steak ready for cooking
Make sure the steak is evenly thin, less than 1/4 inch. Coat the steaks with flour, then dip in egg, and flour again. Press the flour onto the steak to make it crispy.
Heat your oil to 350°F in a thick skillet. Fry the steaks and baste them with hot oil. This locks in a golden crust and keeps the inside moist.
For extra taste, add hot sauce to the egg or try buttermilk for a tangy flavor. Season each coating for more deliciousness.
After frying, let the steaks drip dry on paper towels. Use a wire rack for keeping them crispy in the oven if needed. Serve with mashed potatoes and cream gravy for a feast.
The secrets to the best chicken fried steak include tenderizing the meat, double dredging, and right oil heat. Share this comfort food favorite with those you love!
Cream Gravy: The Essential Accompaniment
The perfect partner for your chicken fried steak is cream gravy. Its rich, silky texture not only boosts the dish’s flavor but also brings everything together. First, melt 40g (1½ oz) of unsalted butter in a skillet. Then add 2 tablespoons of plain flour to make a smooth roux.
The secret to smooth cream gravy is continuous whisking. Slowly mix in 1 cup (250 ml) of beef stock, ¼ cup (60 ml) of thickened cream, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Cooking the flour until golden-brown adds a rich taste, creating an irresistible gravy.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 40g (1½ oz) |
| Plain Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Beef Stock | 1 cup (250 ml) |
| Thickened (Heavy) Cream | ¼ cup (60 ml) |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tsp |
It’s important for the gravy to be smooth and lump-free. You can adjust the seasoning to get the flavor just right, giving you a classic comfort food. This gravy can also be made a bit ahead of time. Just reheat it before serving to keep it warm and tasty.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Chicken fried steak offers endless meal possibilities. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic Southern dish. Add green beans to balance the meal.
You can also try it with tangy slaw or biscuits that soak up the gravy. For a twist, mix it with potatoes, bacon, onions, and mustard. This combo is not only tasty but also balanced with 181 calories and essential nutrients.
For a custom touch, change the breading or gravy seasoning. Try different beef cuts or use brown gravy for country fried steak. Mini steak sliders on buns or with fries and onion rings are great, too. They add crunch and variety to your meal.
Chicken fried steak isn’t just for dinner; it’s great for brunch, too. Enjoy it with eggs and hash browns for a filling breakfast. Keep these tips in mind for a memorable Southern meal anytime.
FAQ
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved Southern dish. It’s made by tenderizing a beef steak, coating it in seasoned flour, and frying it. Even though it’s called “Chicken” Fried Steak, it’s actually beef served with creamy gravy.
What distinguishes Chicken Fried Steak from Country-Fried Steak?
Their gravies make them different. Chicken Fried Steak comes with a creamy gravy. Country-Fried Steak is usually served with a brown gravy. The creamy sauce is what sets Chicken Fried Steak apart.
How do I achieve the perfect crispy texture on my Chicken Fried Steak?
For a crispy crust, dredge the steak in flour and cracker crumbs, and make sure your oil is hot for frying. Add seasoning to the steak, flour, and buttermilk mixture for flavor.
What are the essential seasonings for Chicken Fried Steak?
Key seasonings are garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. They enhance the flavor of the steak and the breading.
Can I modify the Chicken Fried Steak recipe to suit my taste?
Yes! Feel free to experiment. Add buttermilk for tanginess or hot sauce for spice. Adjust the breading or gravy to your liking.
What makes Cream Gravy indispensable for Chicken Fried Steak?
Cream Gravy is key for its smooth texture. It’s made from steak drippings, flour, and milk. This gravy contrasts deliciously with the crispy steak.
How do I ensure my Cream Gravy is lump-free?
For smooth gravy, add milk slowly and stir well. Cook the flour until bubbly to avoid lumps, creating a creamy sauce.
What sides go well with Chicken Fried Steak?
Collard greens, okra, and black-eyed peas are perfect with Chicken Fried Steak. They complete the comforting Southern meal.
Can Chicken Fried Steak be served for breakfast or brunch?
Definitely! It’s great for a hearty start. Serve it with eggs and hash browns for a filling breakfast or brunch.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge. To keep the steak crispy, reheat it in the oven and avoid it getting soggy.
Is Chicken Fried Steak similar to Wiener Schnitzel?
They both involve frying breaded meat, but they are different. Chicken Fried Steak is beef with cream gravy. Wiener Schnitzel is veal, often served with lemon or salad. Their taste and sides are quite distinct.
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