If you’ve ever craved a comforting plate of Southern goodness, then you’re going to adore this Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that wraps tender cube steaks in a perfectly crispy coating and drowns them in rich, creamy gravy that’s downright addictive. Every bite brings together layers of flavor and texture that feel like a warm hug from the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from creating that irresistible crispy crust to the creamy, luscious gravy that ties it all together.
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick): Tender cuts perfect for frying that soak up the breading and stay juicy inside.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of our crispy coating and gravy thickener.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: Adds extra crunch for that signature chicken-fried texture.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a warm, mild earthiness and beautiful color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor with a gentle sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): A little heat to wake up your taste buds.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and counterbalance to the seasoning.
- 2 large eggs: Helps the coating stick and contributes to golden color.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the steak while adding tangy richness.
- 1/4 cup whole milk: Lightens up the batter for a smoother dip.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures the perfect crispy crust without smoking.
- For the gravy: Use 1/4 cup pan drippings or butter, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 cups whole milk, plus salt and pepper to taste to create that dreamy, velvety sauce.
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the coating and egg bath
Start by whisking together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, buttermilk, and whole milk until smooth and creamy. This double-dipping technique is what makes the crust thick, crispy, and packed with flavor.
Step 2: Dredge the cube steaks
Take each cube steak and coat it first in the dry flour mixture, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally dredge it again in the flour mixture, pressing firmly so the coating sticks well. Setting the coated steaks on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes helps the breading adhere, preventing it from falling off during frying.
Step 3: Fry the steaks
Heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the steaks in the pan in batches to avoid crowding. Fry each steak for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain the fried steaks on paper towels to remove excess oil and maintain crispiness.
Step 4: Make the homemade gravy
Pour off all but 1/4 cup of the pan drippings (or use butter if you prefer). Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw taste. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly. Cook the mixture until it thickens into a creamy gravy, around 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
How to Serve Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top of the gravy not only adds a pop of vibrant green color but also a fresh contrast to the rich flavors. Some freshly cracked black pepper over the dish can give it an extra zing that complements the gravy beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic companions to this hearty recipe include fluffy mashed potatoes that mop up every drop of gravy, roasted green beans that add a crisp, earthy balance, or creamy coleslaw for a crunchy, refreshing counterpart. These sides turn the meal into a well-rounded Southern feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe in a warm biscuit sandwich or slicing the steak into strips for a shareable appetizer platter. You can even drizzle gravy artistically for a gourmet look that impresses at any dinner table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken fried steak and gravy in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the coating crispy, place the steak on a wire rack in the fridge, allowing air circulation instead of stacking.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully—wrap the cooled fried steaks individually in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Store the gravy separately in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months for a quick future meal.
Reheating
To reheat and keep the steak crispy, place it on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Warm the gravy gently on the stovetop while stirring occasionally, then pour over the reheated steak before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat for Chicken Fried Steak?
Cube steaks are traditionally used because they are tenderized and thin, making them perfect for this recipe. However, you can experiment with other tougher cuts like round steak by pounding them thin for similar results.
Is it necessary to double dredge the steaks?
Double dredging creates a thicker, extra crispy crust that holds up well during frying and simmering in gravy. It’s definitely worth the extra step for that exceptional texture.
What can I substitute for buttermilk in the recipe?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This creates a similar tang and tenderizing effect in the batter.
How do I get the gravy super smooth without lumps?
Whisk the flour into the fat carefully before adding milk and add the milk gradually while whisking constantly. Patience with this step ensures a smooth, creamy gravy that coats your steak perfectly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour and cornstarch with gluten-free flour blends or cornstarch alone, but keep in mind the texture might vary slightly. Also, double-check your seasonings for gluten content.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe at home is a wonderful way to bring a taste of Southern comfort to your table. It’s approachable, rewarding, and sure to please everyone who gathers around your plate. So, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this classic dish that feels like a warm, delicious hug every single time!
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Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved Southern American comfort food featuring tender cube steaks coated in a seasoned crispy batter, fried to golden perfection, and served smothered in creamy homemade gravy. This hearty main course pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans, delivering a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Gravy:
- 1/4 cup pan drippings or butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading Mixtures: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper to create the dry coating. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, and whole milk until smooth to form the wet mixture.
- Bread the Steaks: Dredge each cube steak first in the dry flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat again with the dry mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the breading sticks well. Place the coated steaks on a wire rack and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the coating to adhere properly.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch and heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking, ready for frying.
- Fry the Steaks: Carefully add the breaded steaks to the hot oil in batches if necessary, frying each side for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn a golden brown color and are cooked through. Remove the steaks from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Gravy: Pour off all but 1/4 cup of the pan drippings or use butter in the skillet. Add the flour and whisk continuously over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the hot chicken fried steaks and generously ladle the creamy gravy over the top. Accompany with your favorite Southern sides like mashed potatoes or green beans for a complete, classic meal.
Notes
- Allowing the breaded steaks to rest before frying helps prevent the coating from falling off during cooking.
- For extra crispy texture, perform a double dredge with a light press on the coating.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with traditional Southern sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw.
- Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet while frying to maintain proper oil temperature and even cooking.
