Delicious chicken fried steak topped with creamy gravy on a rustic plate

The Best Chicken Fried Steak

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Fried Steak is a classic dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. It’s crispy, savory, and smothered in creamy gravy, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender beef and flavorful batter is sure to please everyone at the table. Making this dish at home allows you to enjoy it just the way you like, and it’s a fun recipe to tackle even for beginner cooks.

How to Make the Best Chicken Fried Steak

Ingredients:

  • 4 (½ pound) beef cube steaks
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, divided
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (e.g. Tabasco)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups vegetable shortening for frying
  • 4 cups milk
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Place the steaks between two layers of plastic wrap and pound them to a thickness of ¼ inch.
  2. Put 2 cups of flour in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix together the baking powder, baking soda, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and ¾ teaspoon of salt.
  3. Add the buttermilk, Tabasco sauce, egg, and minced garlic to the second bowl. Stir everything to combine well.
  4. Heat the vegetable shortening in a deep cast-iron skillet to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
  5. Set a wire rack over a sheet of parchment paper.
  6. While the shortening is heating, dredge one steak in flour to coat it. Shake off the excess flour.
  7. Dip the steak into the buttermilk batter, allowing extra batter to drip back into the bowl. Then, press it into the flour again, coating both sides completely.
  8. Place the breaded steak on the wire rack and repeat this process with the remaining steaks.
  9. Fry the steaks in the heated shortening, working in batches if necessary. Cook until they are evenly golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes on each side.
  10. Once cooked, remove the steaks and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. Cover them with foil to keep warm while you make the gravy.
  11. Carefully drain the fat from the skillet, saving ¼ cup of the liquid and as many solid bits as you can.
  12. Return the skillet to medium-low heat and add the reserved oil. Whisk in the remaining ¼ cup of flour.
  13. Use a spatula to scrape up the bits stuck to the bottom of the pan to enhance the gravy.
  14. Stir in the milk and raise the heat to medium, letting the gravy come to a simmer. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring often until it thickens. Season with kosher salt and pepper.
  15. Finally, transfer the steaks to a platter and pour the warm gravy over the top.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak is best served hot and fresh out of the skillet. Pair it with mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw for a satisfying meal. You can also add a side of green beans or corn to complete the dish. Don’t forget to have some extra gravy on the side for those who like to drench their steak!

How to Store Chicken Fried Steak

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a crisp finish, or use the microwave for a quicker option. If you want to freeze the leftovers, wrap them tightly and they can last up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Chicken Fried Steak

  • Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to get that perfect crispy coating.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying—this can lower the temperature of the oil and make the steaks soggy.
  • Let the steaks drain well on paper towels to keep them crispy.
  • Adjust the spice level of the batter by adding more or less hot pepper sauce to suit your taste.

Variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, try using chicken breasts instead of beef cube steaks. You can also experiment with different spices in the batter, like paprika or cayenne pepper, for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken, pork, or even a vegetable patty for a vegetarian option.

What can I serve with Chicken Fried Steak?
Common sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a splash of milk to thin it out if it thickens too much.