Table of Contents
- Introduction to the Classic Chicken Fried Steak
- The Secret to Crispy Perfection
- Why Creamy Gravy Complements Chicken Fried Steak
- Perfect Pairings for Your Comfort Food Feast
- Pro Tips for Making the Best Chicken Fried Steak
- FAQs About Chicken Fried Steak
Key Takeaways
- Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food dish.
- Double-dipping and resting the steak before frying ensures a crispy crust.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread for a complete meal.
- Homemade creamy gravy is a must for enhancing the flavor.
Introduction to the Classic Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a timeless Southern dish that captures the essence of comfort food. At Dorothy Recipes, we take pride in bringing you this classic recipe with a modern twist. This crispy, golden steak, paired with a rich and creamy gravy, is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Discover how easy it is to recreate this dish at home!
The Secret to Crispy Perfection
The key to a perfectly crispy chicken fried steak lies in the breading process. Double-dipping the steaks in seasoned flour ensures a thick, crunchy crust. At Dorothy Recipes, we also recommend letting the breaded steaks rest before frying to lock in the coating. This technique guarantees the ideal texture and taste.
Why Creamy Gravy Complements Chicken Fried Steak
No chicken fried steak is complete without a velvety gravy. The creamy gravy, made from scratch, enhances the crispy steak with its smooth, rich flavors. It’s a simple yet essential component that elevates the dish, making every bite a delicious experience.
Perfect Pairings for Your Comfort Food Feast
What goes best with chicken fried steak? Mashed potatoes are a classic choice, soaking up the creamy gravy for a delightful combination. For a lighter option, serve with steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad. Dorothy Recipes also recommends buttery cornbread for an authentic Southern touch.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Chicken Fried Steak
Want to take your chicken fried steak to the next level? Use cube steak for its tender texture and uniform thickness. Ensure your oil is at the perfect frying temperature to achieve that golden crust without soaking up excess oil. Finally, don’t skip the seasoning—well-seasoned flour and gravy are the hallmarks of a flavorful dish.
FAQs About Chicken Fried Steak
Q: Can I use a different cut of meat for chicken fried steak?
A: Cube steak is preferred for its tenderness, but you can use other cuts like round steak if properly tenderized.Q: How do I store leftovers?A: Keep leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
Classic Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 4 cube steaks (about 1 pound total)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Gravy
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, then dip in the buttermilk mixture, and coat again in the flour mixture. Set aside on a plate.
- Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the steaks in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a clean skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve the chicken fried steak hot, topped with the creamy gravy. Enjoy with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides.
