“What could possibly be better than a mouthwatering plate of Chicken Fried Steak fresh off the skillet, drizzled with rich sausage gravy?” This iconic Southern dish is known for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy meat that melts in your mouth. Not only does Chicken Fried Steak deliver a symphony of flavors, but it also brings with it a sense of comfort—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a hearty breakfast. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that makes both your taste buds and your wallet sing with joy. Ready to experience this crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive into making your very own Chicken Fried Steak!
Why Make This Recipe
Indulging in Chicken Fried Steak means savoring a dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. The satisfying crunch of the fried steak against a velvety, savory gravy is nothing short of divine. Plus, the process is quick and uncomplicated, allowing you to whip up a delightful meal in no time. If you’re working with a budget, this dish shines as a wallet-friendly choice, easily serving multiple hungry mouths without breaking the bank.
In addition to being a true delight, Chicken Fried Steak is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it for breakfast alongside eggs or turn it into a hearty dinner option with a side of mashed potatoes. It’s suitable for any occasion! Embrace the chance to create this beloved Southern classic and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious experience.
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients
- 1 lb cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
- Sausage gravy (for serving)
- Optional: eggs (for breakfast), mashed potatoes (for dinner)
Directions
Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until the oil is hot but not smoking—this typically takes about 5 minutes.
In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. This is your seasoned flour mixture that will add a kick to the steak.
Dip each piece of cube steak into the buttermilk, making sure it’s fully coated. This step is crucial for getting that crispy crust later on.
After dipping in the buttermilk, place the steak into the flour mixture, coating it thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour before moving to the frying pan.
Once the oil is properly heated, carefully place the breaded cube steak in the skillet. Fry the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until each piece is golden brown and bubbling at the edges.
Remove the fried steak from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. You’ll want to keep that crispy texture intact!
Serve hot, generously topped with sausage gravy. If desired, garnish with eggs for breakfast or pair with mashed potatoes for a satisfying dinner.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken Fried Steak is best enjoyed fresh from the skillet when it’s still hot and sizzling. For an enticing presentation, place the steak on a warm plate and smother it with sausage gravy. If you choose to add eggs, sunny-side up or scrambled work beautifully alongside. For dinner, consider pairing the steak with creamy mashed potatoes, greens, or a warm biscuit.
A delightful garnish, such as chopped parsley, can elevate the dish and add a pop of color. Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish is bound to impress and satisfy the whole family.
How to Store Chicken Fried Steak
To keep your Chicken Fried Steak fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When kept properly, it will last for about 3 days. If you want to save it for a longer period, freezing is an option! Wrap each steak in plastic wrap and transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. It can be safely frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to maintain its crispy exterior.
Tips to Make Chicken Fried Steak
Prep Ahead: You can marinate the cube steak in buttermilk overnight for extra tenderness and flavor.
Ingredient Swaps: If you’re out of buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes to create a quick substitute.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to ensure even cooking. If the pan is too crowded, the temperature will drop, leading to greasy steak.
Cook Temp Check: To keep the meat well-cooked without being overdone, ensure the stove is on medium heat, around 350°F.
Don’t Skimp on Gravy: The sausage gravy is essential—don’t be afraid to pour it on thick!
Use Panko for Extra Crispiness: If you’re looking for a crunchier coating, try substituting some of the all-purpose flour with panko breadcrumbs.
Flavor Variations: Adding additional herbs or spices to the flour mix can elevate the flavor—think rosemary or paprika for added depth.
Make-ahead Gravy: You can prepare the sausage gravy in advance to save time on serving day.
Tex-Mex Twist: Add jalapeños to the buttermilk for a spicy kick!
Transformation Idea: Leftover Chicken Fried Steak can be repurposed into a delicious steak sandwich with some fresh veggies and spicy aioli.
Variations
Vegan Comfort Craving: Try using tofu cutlets or tempeh marinated in a seasoned vegan buttermilk as a plant-based alternative. Coat in flour and follow the same frying instructions for a satisfying meat-free version.
Health-Conscious Swap: For a lighter take, use chicken breast instead of cube steak or experiment with lean turkey. Just adjust the frying time as needed!
Gluten-Free Delight: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring all the other ingredients are gluten-free too. This option allows everyone at the table to enjoy!
Spicy Southern Twist: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk for an exciting kick that elevates this dish to new flavor heights.
Italian-Inspired Version: Incorporate Italian herbs and serve it with marinara sauce instead of gravy for a unique fusion dish that’s both delightful and comforting.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the steak, coat it, and even fry it an hour before serving. Just reheat gently in an oven to maintain the crunch.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container in the fridge and can last up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Fried Steak! Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, a mixture of milk and an acid (like lemon juice or vinegar) will work as a good substitute. Mix 1 cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
How do I prevent sticking or burning?
Ensure the oil is heated adequately before frying, and fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to sticking or uneven cooking.
Is this recipe friendly for those on a specific diet?
The recipe is flexible; you can tailor it for gluten-free or dairy-free diets by substituting key ingredients accordingly.
What if I don’t have a skillet?
A deep fryer or a Dutch oven can also be used successfully. Just ensure there’s enough oil for proper frying.
How do I know when it’s done?
The Chicken Fried Steak should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check for an internal temperature of 145°F for meat safety.
Chicken Fried Steak with Sausage Gravy
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A comforting Southern classic, Chicken Fried Steak features crispy, golden-brown meat served with rich sausage gravy—perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cube steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
- Sausage gravy (for serving)
- Optional: eggs (for breakfast), mashed potatoes (for dinner)
Instructions
- Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until the oil is hot but not smoking—this typically takes about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Dip each piece of cube steak into the buttermilk, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- After dipping, coat the steak in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour.
- Carefully place the breaded cube steak in the skillet and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
- Remove the fried steak and let it drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot, topped with sausage gravy, and optionally garnish with eggs or mashed potatoes.
Notes
Marinate the cube steak in buttermilk overnight for extra flavor. For a lighter version, substitute chicken breast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern