Who can resist the savory, crispy goodness of Chicken Fried Steak? This classic Southern dish boasts tender, flavorful cube steak that’s battered and fried to perfection, creating a delightful contrast with its rich, creamy sausage gravy. Imagine digging into this golden wonder, where every bite is a celebration of textures and flavors! Whether you’re whipping it up for a comforting family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe will elevate your home-cooking game to new heights. Get ready to relish a plate of Chicken Fried Steak that’s not just food—it’s a heartfelt experience.
Why You’ll Love This Best Chicken Fried Steak
This Chicken Fried Steak recipe is a beloved favorite for a reason! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall in love:
- Quick and Easy: With easy-to-follow steps, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Perfect for Beginners: Even novice cooks can create a show-stopping meal thanks to simple instructions and readily available ingredients.
- Ideal for the Whole Family: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings.
- Economical: Using budget-friendly cube steak, this recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.
The Necessary Ingredients
Before you jump into cooking, let’s gather the ingredients that will bring this Chicken Fried Steak to life:
- Cube steak
- Flour
- Milk
- Eggs
- Seasoning: salt, pepper, garlic powder
- Sausage (cooked)
- Butter
- Cream
- Black pepper
Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:
- Cube Steak: A thin cut of beef that’s tenderized, cube steak is key to achieving that classic Chicken Fried Steak texture. If you can’t find cube steak, you can use round steak or even chicken breast for a different spin.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is commonly used for the batter. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a gluten-free blend, but the texture might be slightly different.
- Sausage: Traditional recipes use breakfast sausage for added flavor. You can substitute with turkey sausage or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version.
How to Prepare the Best Chicken Fried Steak Step by Step
Let’s walk through each step of preparing this delicious Chicken Fried Steak, focusing on the details to ensure you achieve the best results:
- Season the cube steak: Generously season each side of the cube steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This step is essential for layering flavor throughout the dish.
- Pro Tip: Let the seasoned steak sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Create the batter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, and milk until smooth. A good batter should be thick enough to cling to the steak while still coating it evenly.
- Pro Tip: Make sure not to overmix; a few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine as they will help create a crispy texture.
- Coat the steak: Dip each seasoned steak into the batter, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated on both sides. This coating is crucial for the crispy finish!
- Pro Tip: Let the excess batter drip off before frying to prevent a soggy coating.
- Pan-fry the steak: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the battered steak into the hot oil and pan-fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Pro Tip: Don’t crowd the pan! Fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil’s temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the sausage gravy: In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cooked sausage and brown it slightly to release more flavors.
- Pro Tip: If you prefer a spicier gravy, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce at this stage.
- Make the roux: Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add cream, constantly whisking, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Pro Tip: Keep the heat low while making the gravy to prevent burning.
- Serve and enjoy: Plate the crispy steak and generously smother it with your creamy sausage gravy. A sprinkle of black pepper on top adds the perfect finishing touch!
- Pro Tip: Pair with biscuits or mashed potatoes for a truly authentic Southern meal!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of Chicken Fried Steak, here are some delightful ways to serve it up:
Perfect Pairings:
- Drinks: Iced tea or lemonade provide a refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Side Dishes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or baked macaroni and cheese for a comforting, well-rounded meal.
Occasions:
- Weeknight Dinner: This dish is quick enough for a comforting midweek meal after a busy day.
- Special Occasion Meal: Impress your guests at gatherings, holiday dinners, or weekend brunch with this classic dish.
Serving Tips:
- Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic touch, or plate it beautifully with fresh parsley as a garnish.
- Don’t forget to keep the gravy warm for those who love a little extra on their steak!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Chicken Fried Steak fresh for later, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:
Refrigerated:
- Duration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Type of Container: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezed:
- If possible: Yes! You can freeze the cooked steak.
- Packaging: Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Defrosting: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
- Best Method: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through for maintaining the crispiness.
Guaranteed Success Tips
Here are some essential rules to follow for unbeatable results:
- Don’t rush the frying: Allow the oil to reach the right temperature before adding the steak to achieve that golden crisp.
- Taste your gravy: Always taste and adjust seasoning in your sausage gravy to get that perfect balance.
- Let the steak rest: Allow the fried steak to rest for a few minutes before serving. It helps in retaining the juiciness.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch up the flavors? Here are some fun variations:
- For a spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the batter for added heat.
- For a vegan version: Replace the chicken with a plant-based steak substitute, and use plant-based milk, egg replacement, and sausage.
- For a herb-infused option: Mix chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the batter for a fragrant twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: My Chicken Fried Steak came out soggy; what went wrong?
A: Soggy chicken fried steak is often due to overcrowding the pan, causing the temperature to drop as well as not allowing the steak to drain excess oil after frying. Always fry in batches and let the cooked steak rest on paper towels.
Q: Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the gravy in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just add a splash of milk to loosen it back to the right consistency.
Q: How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
A: You can drop a small amount of batter into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles immediately, it’s ready!
Q: Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While traditional recipes use cube steak, you can try chicken, pork, or even turkey for a delicious twist.
Q: Is Chicken Fried Steak healthy?
A: While it’s not the healthiest option due to frying, it can certainly be enjoyed as an indulgent treat in moderation.
Q: Can I freeze the biscuits or sides as well?
A: Yes! Both biscuits and many sides like mashed potatoes or green beans can be prepared and frozen ahead of time for convenience.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Fried Steak instead of gravy?
A: If you want a lighter option, consider topping it with a spicy salsa or fresh pico de gallo for a refreshing contrast.
Creating the perfect Chicken Fried Steak is easy and rewarding. With this detailed guide, you’re set to impress and satisfy everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
Chicken Fried Steak
Ingredients Â
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces cube steak Thin cut of beef that’s tenderized.
- 1 cup flour All-purpose flour, can use gluten-free blend.
- 1 cup milk For batter.
- 2 large eggs For batter.
- 1 teaspoon salt For seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning.
- 1 cup cooked sausage For the gravy.
- 4 tablespoons butter For the gravy.
- 1 cup cream For grav.
InstructionsÂ
Preparation
- Generously season each side of the cube steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, eggs, and milk until smooth.
- Dip each seasoned steak into the batter, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated on both sides.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and pan-fry the battered steak until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, add the cooked sausage, and brown slightly.
- Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add cream, constantly whisking, until the gravy thickens.
- Plate the steak and generously smother it with creamy sausage gravy.