The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak
The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak is a dish that brings the heart of Southern cooking to your table. With its crispy, golden coating and creamy gravy, it’s perfect for any occasion—be it breakfast or dinner. This standout recipe combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a beloved meal for families everywhere. Once you try this ultimate chicken fried steak, it will surely become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy gravy creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this classic dish without fuss.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it fits any time you crave comfort food.
- Family Favorite: This dish is sure to impress family and friends—everyone will be asking for seconds!
- Satisfying and Filling: Packed with protein and flavor, it’s a hearty meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having the essential equipment will make preparing The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak easier and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large cast iron skillet
- Shallow bowls (for dredging)
- Whisk
- Metal rack or sheet pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Large cast iron skillet: Ideal for even heat distribution, ensuring that your chicken fried steak cooks evenly while achieving that perfect crispiness.
- Shallow bowls: Great for dredging; they allow easy access for coating the steaks thoroughly.
- Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly—especially when making the creamy gravy.
Ingredients
The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak is fried to golden perfection and topped with the creamiest gravy you can imagine. It’s hard to imagine a more quintessential Southern meal. The hard part is deciding whether you want to make it for breakfast or dinner. My family can’t get enough of these tender steaks with that delightful crispy, crunchy coating. And the gravy? Heaven!
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/3 lb each)
- 1 ½ cups all purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper, divided
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt or sea salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons TABASCO® Sauce (original)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 tablespoons grease
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 to 3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- salt and pepper to taste
How to Make The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Breading Mixtures
In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, one teaspoon black pepper, one teaspoon salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside.
Step 2: Make the Buttermilk Mixture
In another shallow bowl, whisk together buttermilk, TABASCO® sauce, and eggs until well combined. Set aside as well.
Step 3: Prepare the Cube Steaks
Pat cube steaks dry using paper towels—removing as much moisture as possible. Season them with one teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of pepper. Let sit for five minutes before patting dry again.
Step 4: Dredge the Steaks
Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture first. Shake off excess flour before dipping in the buttermilk mixture; let any excess drip off before returning them to the flour mixture once more. Ensure each steak is fully coated.
Step 5: Rest Before Frying
Place breaded cube steaks on a metal rack or sheet pan. Press any remaining flour mixture onto each steak for an extra crispy coating. Let them rest for ten minutes while preheating your oven to between 225°F and 250°F.
Step 6: Heat Oil in Skillet
Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking—about 320°F to 340°F is ideal.
Step 7: Fry the Steaks
Fry two cube steaks at a time in the hot oil for three to four minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Avoid flipping more than once to keep the breading intact.
Step 8: Drain and Keep Warm
Remove cooked steaks from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Place them in your preheated oven while you prepare the gravy.
Step 9: Make the Gravy
Pour remaining grease from frying into a heat-safe bowl but do not scrape out any bits from the skillet; these add flavor! Return four tablespoons of grease back into the skillet.
Step 10: Create Roux
Whisk in flour into the hot grease until light brown—about two to three minutes should do it.
Step 11: Add Milk Mixture
Combine cream and milk then slowly drizzle about two-and-a-half cups into your roux while whisking constantly until smooth.
Step 12: Simmer Until Thickened
Bring gravy to a simmer while continuing to whisk—it should take about five to seven minutes until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more milk if necessary; season with salt and lots of pepper!
Final Step: Serve
Serve your ultimate chicken fried steak generously topped with creamy gravy alongside mashed potatoes and your favorite green veggies! Enjoy!
How to Serve The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak
Serving The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak is an experience in itself. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to pair it with various sides and drinks for an unforgettable meal.
Classic Southern Style
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a must-have. Their velvety texture complements the crispy steak perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken fried steak.
- Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans add a pop of color and a nutritious element to your plate.
For Breakfast Lovers
- Eggs Any Style: Sunny-side-up or scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast option when served alongside chicken fried steak.
- Biscuits and Gravy: Fluffy biscuits topped with gravy echo the flavors of this dish, making for a comforting breakfast spread.
- Fresh Fruit: A side of seasonal fruit can balance out the richness of your meal, offering a refreshing bite.
Creative Twists
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese brings a fun twist to your dinner table and pairs well with the savory flavors of chicken fried steak.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: These tangy slices provide an authentic Southern touch that complements the main dish beautifully.
How to Perfect The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak
To ensure your chicken fried steak turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. You’ll be well on your way to serving up an amazing meal.
- Choose Quality Cube Steaks: Selecting fresh, high-quality cube steaks is key to achieving that tender texture everyone loves.
- Pat Dry Thoroughly: Removing excess moisture from the steaks helps the breading adhere better, ensuring a crispy coating.
- Let It Rest Before Frying: Allowing the breaded steaks to sit for 10 minutes helps the coating stick during frying.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil at around 320-340°F for optimal cooking. Too hot, and the breading may burn; too cool, and it won’t crisp properly.
- Only Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and prevent soggy breading. Fry two at a time for best results.
- Whisk Gravy Constantly: Stirring continuously while adding milk prevents lumps in your gravy, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture.
Best Side Dishes for The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak
Pairing side dishes with The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak enhances its flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery potatoes serve as a classic companion, perfect for soaking up gravy.
- Southern Collard Greens: These greens add a nutritious and flavorful component that balances the richness of chicken fried steak.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful texture contrast while complementing savory dishes beautifully.
- Fried Okra: Crispy fried okra adds crunchiness and is another beloved Southern staple that pairs well with this dish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that enhance your meal’s overall taste profile.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness can act as a lovely counterpoint to the savory elements of chicken fried steak.
- Potato Salad: A tangy potato salad provides creaminess and zest that complements the main course well.
- Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, cucumber salad adds brightness and crunch that contrast nicely with hearty fare.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the Drying Step: Not drying the cube steaks well can result in soggy breading. Pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many steaks at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry only two steaks at a time for best results.
- Using Cold Oil: If your oil isn’t hot enough, the coating won’t crisp up properly. Make sure the oil is glistening and around 320-340 degrees F before frying.
- Not Letting the Breading Rest: Skipping the resting time after breading can cause the coating to fall off during frying. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes.
- Ignoring Gravy Consistency: If your gravy turns out too thick or too thin, adjusting milk gradually helps achieve the right texture. Always whisk until smooth.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container.
- It will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheating The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Warm each side for about 3-4 minutes until crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak?
The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern classic featuring tender cube steaks coated in seasoned flour and fried until golden brown, served with creamy gravy.
How do you make chicken fried steak easy?
For an easy version of chicken fried steak, use pre-made seasonings and skip complex marinades. Stick with simple ingredients like flour, buttermilk, and seasonings for quick preparation.
Can you freeze chicken fried steak?
Yes! Frozen chicken fried steak should be wrapped well and stored in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months without losing flavor.
What makes chicken fried steak different from country fried steak?
The main difference lies in the gravy. Chicken fried steak is usually served with cream gravy, while country fried steak often features brown gravy.
Final Thoughts
The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for breakfast or dinner. Customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it with different sides like mashed potatoes or green beans. Try this comforting recipe today—your family will love it!
The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern classic that brings warmth and comfort to your table. This dish features tender cube steaks coated in a crispy, golden breading, fried to perfection, and topped with a rich, creamy gravy. It’s versatile enough for breakfast or dinner and will surely impress family and friends alike. With its irresistible flavor and satisfying texture, this recipe is destined to become a beloved favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 4 cube steaks
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper, divided
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt or sea salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons TABASCO® Sauce (original)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 tablespoons grease
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 to 3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, one teaspoon black pepper, one teaspoon salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk together buttermilk, TABASCO® sauce, and eggs until well combined. Set aside as well.
- Pat cube steaks dry using paper towels—removing as much moisture as possible. Season them with one teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of pepper. Let sit for five minutes before patting dry again.
- Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture first. Shake off excess flour before dipping in the buttermilk mixture; let any excess drip off before returning them to the flour mixture once more. Ensure each steak is fully coated.
- Place breaded cube steaks on a metal rack or sheet pan. Press any remaining flour mixture onto each steak for an extra crispy coating. Let them rest for ten minutes while preheating your oven to between 225°F and 250°F.
- Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking—about 320°F to 340°F is ideal.
- Fry two cube steaks at a time in the hot oil for three to four minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Avoid flipping more than once to keep the breading intact.
- Remove cooked steaks from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Place them in your preheated oven while you prepare the gravy.
- Pour remaining grease from frying into a heat-safe bowl but do not scrape out any bits from the skillet; these add flavor! Return four tablespoons of grease back into the skillet.
- Whisk in flour into the hot grease until light brown—about two to three minutes should do it.
- Combine cream and milk then slowly drizzle about two-and-a-half cups into your roux while whisking constantly until smooth.
- Bring gravy to a simmer while continuing to whisk—it should take about five to seven minutes until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more milk if necessary; season with salt and lots of pepper!
- Serve your ultimate chicken fried steak generously topped with creamy gravy alongside mashed potatoes and your favorite green veggies! Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak (180g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
