There’s something undeniably comforting about the sound of sizzling steak hitting a hot skillet, and this Classic Chicken-Fried Steak with Gravy is the ultimate expression of that warmth. Imagine biting into a crispy, seasoned crust, revealing juicy steak nestled inside—it’s pure heaven on a plate. After a long day, I often crave a meal that feels like a hug, and this dish never fails to deliver.
I discovered this recipe while looking for a way to shake up our family dinner routine. In just 30 minutes, I can whip up a hearty meal that pleases everyone at the table. The rich, creamy gravy transforms the plate into a symphony of flavors that is not only satisfying but also family-friendly.
Whether you’re a busy home cook or a culinary adventurer, this chicken-fried steak is a quick, delightful diversion from the mundane. Let’s dive into making this delightful comfort food that promises to bring smiles and full bellies to your loved ones!
Why is this Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy a must-try?
Comforting Indulgence: This dish wraps you in a warm embrace, perfect for any night craving hearty satisfaction.
Quick Preparation: Whipping it up in just 30 minutes means it fits seamlessly into your busy routine.
Flavor Explosion: Savory, crispy crust meets creamy gravy, creating a taste experience that’s truly memorable.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will gather ’round the table, eagerly anticipating this delicious dish.
Versatile Options: Easily adapt it with ingredient swaps; there’s a variation for everyone!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s bound to impress at gatherings or cozy family dinners, ensuring second helpings are requested!
Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy Ingredients
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides a crispy coating for the chicken-fried steak. Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Large Eggs – Acts as a binder to help the flour stick. You can use buttermilk instead for a creamier texture.
- 2% Milk – Adds creaminess to both the coating and gravy. Whole milk or buttermilk can enrich the flavor further.
For the Steak
- Beef Cubed Steaks (6 ounces each) – The star of the dish, tenderized for perfect texture. Hamburger patties or chicken can make delightful variations.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the steak. Try garlic salt for an extra zing.
- Pepper – Provides a hint of heat and aroma. For a kick, consider replacing with cayenne pepper.
For Frying and Gravy
- Oil for Frying – Essential for achieving a beautiful golden-brown crust. Bacon grease can add a rich flavor if you prefer.
- Water – Helps adjust the seasoning and consistency of the gravy. For a creamier gravy, use more milk instead.
With this collection of ingredients, your Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is well on its way to becoming a beloved family favorite!
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
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Prepare Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine 1 cup of flour. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup of 2% milk until smooth and well combined.
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Season Steak: Sprinkle each cubed steak with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Dredge the steaks in the flour, shake off excess, dip into the egg wash, and coat them again in the flour for a beautiful crust.
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Fry Steaks: Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the steaks gently into the hot oil and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
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Make Gravy: After the steaks are fully cooked, remove excess oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the skillet. Stir in the remaining flour, along with salt and pepper, cooking until golden. Gradually whisk in the remaining milk and water, bringing the mixture to a boil until the gravy thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
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Serve: Drizzle the creamy gravy over the crispy chicken-fried steaks. Serve warm for an ultimate comfort meal.
Optional: Pair with mashed potatoes for an extra comforting experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
- Fridge: Store cooked chicken fried steak in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s fully cooled before sealing to maintain texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked steaks without gravy. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, lasting up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring the crust remains crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.
- Gravy Storage: If you have leftover gravy, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little milk if it thickens too much.
What to Serve with Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy?
Nothing complements a hearty meal like a few delightful side dishes that add flavor and texture to your plate.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky smooth texture of mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory gravy, absorbing every last drop of deliciousness.
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Fresh Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans bring a crisp contrast, enhancing the meal with their vibrant color and fresh flavor.
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Southern Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are a classic choice, perfect for soaking up gravy and adding a delightful richness to each bite.
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Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread balances the dish with its hint of sweetness, making every mouthful comforting and satisfying.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy coleslaw adds a tangy note, brightening the plate and cutting through the richness of the steak and gravy.
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Sweet Tea: Pair your meal with a tall glass of sweet tea to enjoy that classic Southern experience. Its sweetness and strong flavor make it a perfect accompaniment.
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Apple Pie: Finish your meal on a sweet note with a slice of warm apple pie. Its comforting spices perfectly round out the flavors of the dinner.
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Pickle Chips: Add crunch and a tangy bite with fried pickle chips, a fun and zesty addition to your meal that echoes classic Southern comfort food.
By serving these sides with your chicken-fried steak, you’ll create a symphony of flavors that transforms dinner into a delightful feast everyone will love!
Expert Tips for Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
- Crispy Texture: Let the breaded steak rest for 10 minutes before frying to enhance crispiness, ensuring a perfectly crunchy chicken fried steak.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm your steaks have reached an internal temperature of 160°F to avoid undercooking.
- Oil Management: Drain the fried steaks on paper towels immediately after cooking to help absorb excess oil, keeping your dish lighter.
- Flour Control: Avoid rinsing the steak before coating, as this can spread bacteria; simply pat dry with a paper towel for better adherence.
- Add Depth: Consider mixing in spices like paprika or cayenne in the breading for an extra flavor kick that complements the creamy gravy perfectly.
Chicken Fried Steak Variations
Feel free to get creative with this timeless dish and make it your own with these delightful variations.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy the crispy goodness.
- Buttermilk Boost: Swap in buttermilk for regular milk in your egg wash for a richer, tangier coating. It adds a lovely depth of flavor!
- Chicken Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of beef for a lighter twist. You’ll still get that satisfying crunch with a different protein.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne pepper or paprika with your flour for an unexpected burst of heat that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Mushroom Magic: Top your chicken-fried steak with sautéed mushrooms before drizzling gravy for an earthy twist that elevates the flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to your gravy to infuse it with aromatic freshness—perfect for those who love herbaceous notes.
- Crispy Cornmeal: Incorporate some cornmeal into your coating mix for added texture and a slight sweetness that compliments the savory steak.
- Zesty Ranch: Mix ranch seasoning into your flour for a flavorful coating surprise that lively ranch flavor fans will adore. It’s delightful!
With these variations, you can transform your chicken-fried steak experience anytime. Enjoy experimenting!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy are perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to save time without compromising on flavor. You can prepare the breaded steaks up to 24 hours in advance—just bread them and store them in a single layer, covered, in the refrigerator to prevent sogginess. The gravy can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the gravy gently while frying the prepared steaks; does this sound comforting? The result will be just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal last-minute effort!
Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy Recipe FAQs
What type of steak is best for chicken-fried steak?
For a perfect chicken-fried steak, beef cubed steaks are ideal due to their tenderness. You can also use hamburger patties or chicken if you’d like to mix it up! Just be sure to tenderize the meat for a better texture.
How do I store leftover chicken-fried steak?
Absolutely! Store your cooked chicken-fried steak in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing; this will help keep the texture just right.
Can I freeze chicken-fried steak?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cooked steaks securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer. Remember, the gravy should be stored separately to avoid sogginess.
How can I reheat chicken-fried steak while keeping it crispy?
For the best reheating results, place the steaks in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps the crust crispy. Microwaving is not recommended as it can lead to a soggy texture.
What if my gravy turns out too thick?
If your gravy is too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk or water to reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently while stirring until it’s smooth again—easy fix!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free flour for the coating. Always check labels for allergens, especially for additives in the oil you use for frying. This dish can be quite adaptable, so feel free to get creative with substitutes!
Mouthwatering Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
- Sprinkle each cubed steak with salt and pepper. Dredge steaks in flour, dip into the egg wash, then coat again in flour.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the steaks for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove excess oil, leaving some in the skillet. Stir in remaining flour, salt, and pepper, cooking until golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk and water, bringing to a boil until gravy thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Drizzle gravy over the crispy chicken-fried steaks and serve warm.