Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is a beloved comfort food that has graced dining tables across America for generations. This dish combines tender cube steak coated in a flavorful breading and smothered in rich, savory gravy. It’s a perfect option for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner any day of the week.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy allows you to indulge in a classic Southern dish right in your own kitchen. The combination of crunchy, fried steak and creamy gravy is not only delicious but also incredibly comforting. Plus, it’s a great way to impress family and friends with your cooking skills. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
To make this Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy, you’ll need a few key ingredients and follow some easy steps. Here’s how you can whip up this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cube steak (4 steaks)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup flour (for breading)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup butter (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup flour (for gravy)
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for gravy)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (for gravy)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (for gravy)
Instructions:
Season the Cube Steak: Begin by seasoning the cube steak with salt and black pepper, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
Set Up a Dredging Station: Prepare three bowls: one with flour for coating, one with buttermilk and eggs mixed together, and another with additional flour.
Coat the Steaks: Take each piece of steak and dip it into the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it in the flour again to ensure a crispy coating.
Fry the Steaks: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add each breaded steak to the skillet. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove the steaks and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking continually to avoid lumps, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Season the Gravy: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve: Place the crispy fried steaks on plates and generously smother them with the warm country gravy.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is best served warm. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For breakfast, consider serving it alongside scrambled eggs and biscuits for a complete meal. A slice of cornbread adds a delightful sweetness that complements the savory flavors perfectly.
How to Store Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
If you find yourself with leftovers (which isn’t common!), store the crispy fried steak and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fried steak can last for about 3 days while the gravy will keep well for up to a week. To reheat, place the steak in a skillet over low heat, covering to retain moisture, and heat until warmed through. For the gravy, reheat on the stove, stirring gently until hot.
Tips for Success with Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
Choose Quality Meat: Opt for good quality cube steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. A good test is to drop a small bit of breading into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
Don’t Crowded the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can reduce the oil temperature, preventing a crispy texture.
Adjust Gravy Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust seasonings as needed. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to flavors!
Variations
While the classic Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is fantastic as is, you can always customize it! For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper to the flour. For a healthier twist, try air frying the breaded steak instead of deep frying. You can even swap in turkey or pork for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, while cube steak is traditional, you can also use other cuts of meat like chicken or pork. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the meat used.
Can I make the gravy dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use almond milk or a non-dairy milk alternative instead of regular milk, and substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
While it can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the steak and gravy separately. The crispy coating doesn’t hold up well after freezing and reheating. Enjoy freshly cooked for the best texture.
Making Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is a delightful culinary adventure that pays homage to Southern comfort food. It’s an experience everyone should try, mixing taste, texture, and tradition into one hearty dish. For more delicious comfort food recipes, check out our site for other favorites like Homestyle Meatloaf or Buttermilk Biscuits. Enjoy!
Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by seasoning the cube steak with salt and black pepper, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
- Prepare three bowls: one with flour for coating, one with buttermilk and eggs mixed together, and another with additional flour.
- Take each piece of steak and dip it into the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it in the flour again to ensure a crispy coating.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add each breaded steak to the skillet. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once done, remove the steaks and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking continually to avoid lumps, and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
- Place the crispy fried steaks on plates and generously smother them with the warm country gravy.