Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

Ingredients (Quantity)

Here’s a classic-style recipe based on common Southern versions:

For the Steak:

• ~4 cube steaks (about 4–6 oz each)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Salt (seasoned salt if desired)
• Optional: fresh thyme (e.g. 2 tsp)

Optional Additions

• Add fresh herbs (thyme, parsley) to the gravy.
• Use buttermilk instead of plain milk in the batter for a tangier crust.
• Season the flour dredge with garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
• For extra richness, finish the gravy with a pat of butter.
• Use leaner or different cuts of steak (sirloin, round) depending on preference.

Tips for Success

1. Tenderize well: Using cube steak helps — its texture makes it ideal for this dish.
2. Double- or triple-dip: For a really crusty coating, dredge in flour, then egg wash, then flour again. Some recipes even do a third dip.
3. Control oil temperature: Fry in oil that’s hot enough (but not smoking) to crisp the crust without burning.
4. Use a heavy skillet: A cast-iron pan helps maintain even heat.
5. Make the gravy from drippings: Reserve a little oil or fat from frying to build your roux for the gravy — it gives flavor.
6. Whisk continuously: When you add milk/cream to the flour for the gravy, whisk constantly to avoid lumps and develop a smooth, thick sauce.

Instructions

1. Prep: Season the steaks lightly with salt and pepper. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk and hot sauce (if using), and one more with flour.
2. Dredge: Dip each steak first in flour, then in the egg mixture, and then again in flour (or repeat if doing triple-dip). Let them rest briefly so the coating sets.
3. Fry: Heat about 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (or to ~350°F). Fry steaks in batches, about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels; keep warm in a low oven if needed.
4. Make Gravy: Discard most of the frying fat, leaving about 2–3 tablespoons in the skillet. Sprinkle in ¼ cup flour and whisk to form a roux; cook until the roux is lightly golden (about 3–4 minutes). Gradually whisk in the cream and milk until smooth. Cook, whisking, until the gravy thickens (5–10 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and herbs if using.
5. Serve: Place fried steak on a platter or individual plates and pour the hot gravy over top. Common sides are mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits.

Description

When you bite into a perfectly made chicken fried steak, you first experience a crisp, golden crust that gives way to juicy, tender beef. The creamy gravy is rich and peppery, coating each bite in silky, savory flavor. The contrast of textures — crunchy exterior and soft interior — makes this dish deeply satisfying.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Nutritional values will vary depending on portion size and recipe variations, but a typical serving (steak + cream gravy) can be quite rich:

• Calories: around 1,000–1,200 kcal (for a restaurant-style portion)
• Fat: high, due to frying and cream in the gravy
• Protein: good — from the beef
• Carbohydrates: moderate, mostly from flour used in the breading and gravy

Conclusion

Chicken fried steak with gravy is a beloved comfort dish that showcases simple ingredients elevated through technique. It represents both Southern tradition and immigrant culinary influence, combining humble cuts of meat with bold, rich flavors.

Recommendation

Serve it alongside classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits. For a balanced meal, consider pairing with a salad or steamed vegetable to offset the richness. If making at home, prepare the gravy while the steaks are frying to ensure everything is hot and ready together.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While chicken fried steak is indulgent, you can enjoy it mindfully:

• Use a leaner cut of beef
• Fry in less oil or use a shallow fry instead of deep fry
• Make the gravy lighter by using low-fat milk instead of cream
• Control your portion — savor a smaller piece, and bulk up your plate with vegetables