Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe

If you’ve ever longed for that irresistible comfort-food classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re in the right place. This Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe combines crispy, perfectly breaded steaks with a luscious, velvety gravy to create a dish that’s both satisfying and downright delicious. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends with your Southern-inspired cooking skills, this recipe delivers all the flavors and textures you crave, bringing a taste of home right to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting the ultimate comfort dish. From the tenderized steaks that provide the hearty base to the seasoning and flour that create that signature crispy crust, every element is essential. The gravy ingredients add richness and creaminess to perfectly complement the fried steaks.

• 1 pound pre-tenderized cube steaks or round steaks: Tenderized cuts make for a juicy, easy-to-cook steak with a great texture.
• Kosher salt (for seasoning and breading): Enhances natural flavors and balances the dish beautifully.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the breading to the steak ensuring a crispy, golden finish.
• 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture to the egg mixture for an even coating.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The key to achieving the crispy crust everyone loves.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (for breading): Seasons the outer crust for attractive flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses the breading with subtle depth and aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
• Oil for frying (canola, peanut, olive, or other frying oil): Choose an oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying.
• 3 tablespoons pan drippings: The flavorful base for making luscious gravy.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy): Thickens the gravy into a silky sauce.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Brings richness and creaminess to the gravy.
• 1 3/4 cups milk (adjust to preference): Adds smoothness and volume to the gravy sauce.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season the gravy to personal perfection.

How to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Season Your Steaks

Start by seasoning your pre-tenderized cube steaks with kosher salt on both sides. This simple step is critical because it enhances the meat’s flavor from within, ensuring every bite is savory and well-balanced.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and half a cup of milk. This egg wash will anchor the breading to the steak, making sure it adheres perfectly and crisps up beautifully when fried.

Step 3: Mix the Seasoned Flour

Combine two cups of all-purpose flour with kosher salt, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a separate shallow dish. This seasoned flour blend is what creates that signature golden crust packed with flavor, so don’t skip on seasoning it well.

Step 4: Dredge the Steaks

Dip each steak first into the egg mixture, then thoroughly coat it in the seasoned flour. Press the flour onto the steak to help it stick well. This two-step dipping creates the perfect canvas for a crunchy exterior.

Step 5: Double Dip for Extra Crispiness

For that mouthwatering, extra crispy crust, repeat the dip in egg and flour once more. This double coating adds thickness and crunch, making the steak irresistible.

Step 6: Heat the Oil

Heat about half an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking, which ensures the steak fries evenly and develops that beautiful golden color.

Step 7: Fry to Perfection

Fry the steaks in batches, cooking them for approximately 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. This step requires attention but results in that crispy-crunchy outer layer paired with a juicy interior. Remove the steaks and let them drain on paper towels to shed excess oil.

Step 8: Make the Creamy Gravy

Leave about three tablespoons of pan drippings in the skillet and whisk in three tablespoons of flour. Cook this roux over medium heat until it turns golden brown and bubbly – this is the flavor base for your gravy.

Step 9: Whisk in Cream and Milk

Gradually pour in the heavy cream and milk while whisking constantly. This prevents lumps and results in a silky-smooth gravy that thickens beautifully. Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper until you reach your perfect flavor balance.

Step 10: Serve It Up

Plate the crispy fried steaks and generously ladle the creamy gravy over the top. This finishing touch elevates the dish and makes every forkful absolutely divine.

How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives can add a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens this rich dish. Some folks love a dash of cracked black pepper on top of the gravy for a bit of texture and an extra flavor punch.

Side Dishes

Classic mashed potatoes are the traditional go-to, as their creamy texture complements the crispy steak and velvety gravy perfectly. But don’t be shy about pairing this with green beans, corn on the cob, or even a crisp cabbage slaw for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist on a classic presentation, try serving the chicken fried steak as an open-faced sandwich on a toasted bun with a layer of gravy and pickles for tang. Or, chop up leftover steak and fold into scrambled eggs for a decadent brunch dish that’s full of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the gravy separate to maintain the crispiness of the steak crust, and reheat just before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze both the fried steaks and gravy, but freeze them separately for best results. Wrap the steaks tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer bag. The gravy can be stored in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the steaks in an oven set to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to keep the crust crisp. Warm the gravy slowly on the stove or in the microwave on low power, stirring frequently until hot and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, pre-tenderized cube steaks or round steaks work best to ensure tenderness, but other tender cuts can be used if pounded thin. Avoid thicker or tougher steaks that require longer cooking.

Is it necessary to double dip the steaks?

Double dipping creates an extra crispy and thick crust, but if you prefer a lighter coating, one dip is fine. Just keep in mind the texture will be less crunchy but still flavorful.

What oil is best for frying?

Use an oil with a high smoke point such as canola, peanut, or vegetable oil. Olive oil can work but has a lower smoke point and may impart a subtle flavor that changes the dish slightly.

Can the gravy be made dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream and milk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk, but the flavor and creaminess might be different. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

How do I know when the steak is cooked through?

Fry until the crust is golden brown and the steak is no longer pink inside. For cube steaks, about 3-4 minutes per side usually ensures they are cooked through.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Recipe is a hearty, soul-warming dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its crispy crust, tender meat, and luscious gravy, it brings a little Southern magic to your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a plate full of cozy goodness. You’ll be glad you did!

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