Chicken fried steak is like a warm hug on a plate, where crispy breadcrumbs embrace tender meat, and rich gravy cascades down like a delicious waterfall of comfort. Imagine sinking your teeth into that first bite, the crunch giving way to juicy steak, and the aroma filling your kitchen with an irresistible invitation to indulge. It’s not just food; it’s a memory-maker, perfect for Sunday dinners or those late-night cravings that whisper sweet nothings in your ear.
This dish holds a special place in my heart (and my stomach) because it reminds me of family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the scent of frying oil and everyone fights over the last piece. Whether you’re cooking for friends or just treating yourself after a long day, chicken fried steak promises an experience as delightful as an unexpected compliment from a stranger.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken fried steak recipe offers ease of preparation, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike
- The flavor profile is rich and savory, with crispy textures and creamy gravy that will leave you wanting more
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and luscious gravy, this dish looks as good as it tastes
- Versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table
It’s always amusing to see the faces of my friends when they take their first bite; jaws drop and eyes widen as if they’ve just discovered the secret to happiness. Chicken fried steak brings out those genuine reactions that make cooking so worthwhile.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Beef Round Steak: Choose about 1 pound of tender round steak for the best texture and flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for breading; it creates that crispy coating we all love.
Eggs: About two large eggs will help bind the flour to the meat perfectly.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness and moisture to both the batter and gravy.
Seasoned Salt: Use this for flavoring; it enhances every bite without overwhelming the dish.
Vegetable Oil: Enough for frying; I prefer canola oil for its high smoke point.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick to balance flavors.
Butter: A couple of tablespoons are needed for making that creamy gravy.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness in your gravy.
Garlic Powder: Just a sprinkle will boost flavor in both the steak breading and gravy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Steak: Start by tenderizing your beef round steak with a meat mallet until it’s about half an inch thick. This step ensures even cooking and maximum tenderness.
Create Your Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with seasoned salt and garlic powder, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and another with plain flour for extra crunch.
Bread Your Steak**: Dip each piece of meat first into plain flour, then into the egg mixture, followed by pressing firmly into seasoned flour again. Make sure they are generously coated!
Heat Up That Oil**: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom. Let it heat until shimmering — this takes about 5 minutes.
Fry Until Golden Brown**: Carefully place each breaded steak into the hot oil. Fry them until golden brown on each side, usually around 3-4 minutes per side. Enjoy watching them sizzle!
Make Your Gravy**: After removing steaks from pan, drain excess oil but leave about 1-2 tablespoons. Add butter until melted, then whisk in flour to create a roux before slowly adding chicken broth while stirring constantly until thickened.
Cooking chicken fried steak doesn’t just fill bellies; it fills hearts too! The process is simple yet rewarding—perfect for creating memories around the dinner table while enjoying every delicious bite.
You Must Know
- Chicken fried steak is a Southern classic that brings comfort and joy
- The crispy exterior and tender meat create an irresistible combination
- Don’t forget the creamy gravy; it takes this dish to heavenly levels
- Perfect for family dinners or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken fried steak in hot oil first, then finish cooking in the oven for even doneness. This ensures the crust stays crispy while the inside remains juicy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor. You could even try adding some sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for a gourmet twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the crust stays crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Achieving the perfect chicken fried steak takes practice but is worth it
- Tenderize your steak well and let it rest before frying for better results
- Always use a thermometer to check doneness without overcooking
Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone savored each bite together. It’s truly special to share food that brings people closer.
FAQ
What cut of meat is best for chicken fried steak?
Tenderized round steak or cube steak works wonderfully for chicken fried steak.
Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the steaks ahead and fry them just before serving for optimal freshness.
What sides pair well with chicken fried steak?
Mashed potatoes, collard greens, or a fresh salad complement chicken fried steak perfectly.
Indulge in Homemade Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a soul-soothing dish featuring tender beef round steak, lovingly breaded and fried to golden perfection, then topped with creamy gravy. This classic Southern comfort food is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering rich flavors and heartwarming memories in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef round steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (divided)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Tenderize the beef round steak to about half an inch thick using a meat mallet.
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with 3/4 cup flour mixed with seasoned salt and garlic powder, one with beaten eggs and milk, and another with the remaining 1/4 cup plain flour.
- Bread the steak by first coating it in plain flour, then dipping it into the egg mixture, and finally pressing it into the seasoned flour.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil until shimmering.
- Fry each breaded steak for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove steaks, drain excess oil, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan. Add butter until melted, then whisk in remaining flour to create a roux before slowly adding chicken broth until thickened.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken fried steak (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
