For the steak:
4 cube steaks (about 1 lb)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
2 large eggs
¼ cup milk
Oil for frying
For the gravy:
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Substitution notes:
No cube steak? Use round steak. No all-purpose flour? Use a gluten-free blend.
Let's Make Chicken-Fried Steak (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Steaks
Season the cube steaks with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
Step 3: Bread the Steaks
Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and then dredge again in the flour mixture.
Step 4: Fry the Steaks
Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the oil from the skillet. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the steaks with the gravy.
Tips for the Best Chicken-Fried Steak
Use a tenderized steak. Cube steak is already tenderized.
Don't overcrowd the pan. Fry the steaks in batches.
Make sure the oil is hot enough. If the oil is not hot enough, the breading will absorb too much oil.
Don't overcook. The steaks should be cooked through but not dry.
Make the gravy in the same pan. It adds flavor.
Serve immediately. It's best fresh.
Variations to Make It Your Own
With Onions: Add caramelized onions to the gravy.
With Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms to the gravy.
With Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
With Herbs: Add fresh herbs.
With a Different Meat: Use chicken or pork.
With a Different Gravy: Use a different gravy.
What to Serve With Chicken-Fried Steak
Mashed potatoes
Green beans
Corn
A simple green salad
Biscuits
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
Freezer: This dish freezes well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cube steak?
A steak that has been tenderized.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork.
What is the best way to reheat it?
Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, it freezes well.
What is the difference between chicken-fried steak and country-fried steak?
They are similar, but country-fried steak is often served with a brown gravy.
A Final Thought
When I make this chicken-fried steak, I feel like I'm bringing a piece of the South to my table. It's a comforting, delicious dish.
Have you ever made chicken-fried steak? Share your tips in the comments. 🥩🍳
){kind=link}