Easy Crispy Chicken Fried Steak

Crispy-Chicken-Fried-Steak-with-Creamy-Gravy

Easy Crispy Chicken Fried Steak

This Southern classic is fried to crispy golden perfection and smothered in the richest, creamiest gravy.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 14

Total Time 24

Servings: 4

Course: Breakfast, Dinnerv

Cuisine: American (Southern)

Calories: 958

Notes

Ingredients (with measurements)

For the Chicken Fried Steak

4 cube steaks (about ⅓ lb each)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons black pepper, divided
2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt, divided
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 ½ cups buttermilk
2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as TABASCO®)
2 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil, for frying

For the Gravy

4 tablespoons pan drippings (grease)
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 to 3 cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step 1: Prepare the Breading

In one shallow bowl, mix flour with seasonings, baking soda, and baking powder. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and hot sauce.

Step 2: Prep the Steaks

Pat the cube steaks dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Let them rest briefly, then pat dry again to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 3: Bread the Steaks

Dredge each steak in flour, dip into the buttermilk mixture, then coat again in flour. Press gently so the coating adheres. Let the breaded steaks rest for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Heat oil in a heavy skillet to about 330°F. Fry the steaks in batches, about 3–4 minutes per side, until deeply golden and crispy. Transfer to a warm oven while finishing the rest.

Making the Creamy Gravy

Pour off excess grease, leaving about 4 tablespoons in the pan. Whisk in flour and cook until golden. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking constantly. Simmer until thick and smooth, then season generously with black pepper and salt.

Tips for Extra Crispy Results

Always pat the steaks dry before breading
Let the breaded steaks rest before frying
Flip only once during frying
Maintain consistent oil temperature
Don’t overcrowd the pan

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken fried steak with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery biscuits, or roasted vegetables. Spoon plenty of warm gravy over the steak and sides for the ultimate comfort meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes to keep the coating crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 958 kcal Carbohydrates: 55g Protein: 50g
Fat: 60g Saturated Fat: 30g Cholesterol: 282mg Sodium: 470mg Potassium: 1015mg Fiber: 2g Sugar: 12g Vitamin A: 1024 IU Calcium: 344mg Iron: 6mg

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