Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy
Chicken fried steak is a beloved Southern classic that has won the hearts of diners across the country. With its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, this dish delivers a mouthwatering blend of textures and flavors that make it a perennial favorite. Whether you grew up savoring your grandmother’s recipe or are discovering this comfort food for the first time, this version of chicken fried steak with gravy is sure to become a new family favorite.
The key to achieving the perfect chicken fried steak lies in the careful preparation and seasoning of the meat, as well as the technique used to achieve that signature golden-brown crust. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to ensure your chicken fried steak comes out perfectly crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside, complemented by a rich, velvety gravy that will have you going back for seconds.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This chicken fried steak with gravy recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a winning combination of crispy texture and savory flavors. The batter-dipped steak is fried to golden perfection, creating a delightful contrast with the tender, juicy interior. And the creamy, peppery gravy? It’s the perfect accompaniment, elevating the dish to new levels of comfort and indulgence.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its accessibility and versatility. The ingredients are largely pantry staples, making it easy to whip up on a weeknight or when you’re craving a taste of the South. Plus, the recipe can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs, whether you’re looking for a reduced-fat version or a dairy-free alternative.
And the best part? This chicken fried steak with gravy can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal option for entertaining or meal prepping. Simply bake the steaks ahead of time, reheat them, and prepare the gravy when ready to serve, and you have a delicious, homemade meal that’s ready in a snap.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy ❓
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The beauty of this Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tenderized cube steak, a simple seasoned breading, and a rich, velvety gravy creates the classic Southern-inspired flavor profile that has made chicken fried steak recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a separate shallow bowl, beat the 2 eggs and mix in the 1/2 cup of milk.
• Step 3: Dredge the tenderized cube steaks in the seasoned flour mixture, coating both sides. Dip the floured steaks into the egg-milk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
• Step 4: In a large skillet, heat the 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded steaks and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried steaks to a paper towel-lined plate.
• Step 5: In the same skillet, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
• Step 6: Gradually pour in the 2 cups of milk and 1 cup of chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened to your desired consistency.
• Step 7: Season the gravy with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting to taste.
• Step 8: Serve the crispy chicken fried steaks warm, topped with the creamy, peppery gravy. Enjoy!
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
Compared to traditional chicken fried steak recipes that can take up to an hour to prepare, this Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy saves you 15 minutes of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fat: 37g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 950mg
These Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy provide approximately 70% of your daily protein requirements and 35% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the all-purpose flour in the breading with almond flour or a low-carb flour blend, and serve the chicken fried steak over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk, and replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil.
• Added protein: Top the chicken fried steak with a fried egg or serve it alongside a grilled chicken breast for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Serve the chicken fried steak with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed kale, or a fresh green salad to add more nutrients.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the chicken fried steak with a side of buttery, flaky biscuits for a truly indulgent experience.
• Complement the dish with a crisp, cool salad like a tangy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• For a hearty breakfast, serve the chicken fried steak alongside scrambled eggs, hash browns, and a hot cup of coffee.
• Create an impressive appetizer platter by cutting the chicken fried steak into bite-sized pieces and serving them with a variety of dipping sauces.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Rushing the roux: Taking the time to cook the roux for the gravy is essential for developing a rich, velvety texture. Trying to speed up the process can lead to a thin, watery gravy.
• Skimping on seasoning: Properly seasoning the flour and the gravy is key to achieving bold, flavorful results. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Letting the gravy boil: Simmering the gravy gently is the best way to ensure it thickens properly without becoming too dense or lumpy.
• Overcooking the steak: Be careful not to overcook the chicken fried steak, as this can result in a tough, dry texture. Fry the steaks until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, but still tender on the inside.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the breaded steaks, but do not fry them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frying.
• Freezing baked: Allow the fried steaks to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil. Place in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Reheating: To reheat the steaks, place them in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. For the gravy, reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
❓ FAQs
Can I prepare the chicken fried steak in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded steaks in advance and freeze them for later use. Simply follow the instructions in the “Freezing unbaked” section to freeze the uncooked, breaded steaks. When ready to serve, thaw the steaks in the refrigerator and then fry them according to the recipe instructions.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of cube steak?
While cube steak is the traditional choice for chicken fried steak, you can substitute other thinly sliced, tenderized cuts of beef, such as top round or sirloin. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly depending on the thickness of the meat.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version of this chicken fried steak, use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk in place of the regular milk, and replace the butter in the gravy with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. You can also find dairy-free breading mixes or make your own by using a combination of almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What can I do if my gravy turns out too thin?
If your gravy is not thickening to your desired consistency, try these troubleshooting tips: 1) Cook the roux for a bit longer to develop more thickening power. 2) Whisk in an extra tablespoon or two of all-purpose flour to the simmering gravy. 3) Allow the gravy to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring frequently, to allow it to thicken naturally.
Can I add any extra ingredients to the chicken fried steak?
Absolutely! Try adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon on top of the steaks for an extra flavor boost. You can also experiment with different seasoning blends in the breading, such as Cajun spice or dried herbs. Just be mindful of any dietary restrictions when making modifications.
Conclusion
These Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a satisfying dinner or a comforting weekend brunch, they’re sure to impress with their crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these chicken fried steak with gravy demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the frying and gravy-making process. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this delectable Southern-inspired classic? Your taste buds will thank you!
