There’s something about Southern Chicken-Fried Steak that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Growing up, my family would gather around the table, the aroma of crispy, golden steak wafting through the air, making our mouths water. This dish is more than just comfort food; it’s a quick solution for busy weeknights or a way to impress your loved ones during a weekend gathering. With its tender meat, crunchy coating, and rich gravy, it’s a meal that brings everyone together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Southern Chicken-Fried Steak
This Southern Chicken-Fried Steak is a game-changer for your dinner routine. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about 35 minutes from start to finish. The crispy, flavorful coating paired with that creamy gravy is pure bliss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. You’ll find yourself craving this dish again and again!
Ingredients for Southern Chicken-Fried Steak
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a mouthwatering Southern Chicken-Fried Steak. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cube Steak: This is the star of the dish. Tender and flavorful, it’s perfect for frying.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for the breading, it gives that crispy texture we all love.
Salt: A must for enhancing the flavors of the steak and the gravy.
Black Pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the seasoning mix.
Garlic Powder: For a hint of savory goodness that elevates the dish.
Onion Powder: Complements the garlic and adds depth to the flavor profile.
Paprika: This gives a beautiful color and a mild smokiness to the breading.
Buttermilk: The secret to tenderizing the steak and creating a rich coating.
Eggs: They help bind the flour to the steak, ensuring a crispy crust.
Vegetable Oil: Used for frying, it’s important to choose an oil with a high smoke point.
For the Gravy:
All-Purpose Flour: Again, this is used to thicken the gravy.
Milk: Creates a creamy texture for the gravy, making it irresistible.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, ensuring the gravy is seasoned just right.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra kick. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Southern Chicken-Fried Steak
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this Southern Chicken-Fried Steak. Each step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy coating and rich gravy. Follow along, and you’ll be serving up a plate of comfort in no time!
Step 1: Tenderize the Cube Steak
Tenderizing the cube steak is essential for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. This breaks down the fibers, making it more tender. Don’t go overboard; you want it to stay intact while cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix them well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. This coating is what gives the chicken-fried steak its signature crunch, so take your time to get it right!
Step 3: Whisk the Buttermilk and Eggs
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until smooth. This mixture acts as a glue, helping the flour coating stick to the steak. The acidity in the buttermilk also tenderizes the meat, making it even more delicious. Trust me, this step is key!
Step 4: Dredge the Steak
Now it’s time to coat the steak. First, dip each piece into the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. The goal is to have a thick, even layer of breading for that perfect crunch.
Step 5: Fry the Steak
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a bit of flour in; it should sizzle), carefully add the breaded steak pieces. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Step 6: Make the Gravy
After frying, drain excess oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Whisk in the 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly browned. Slowly add in the milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This rich gravy is the perfect finishing touch!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
To plate your Southern Chicken-Fried Steak, place a piece on a warm plate and generously ladle the gravy over the top. For an authentic touch, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or collard greens. Your family and friends will be begging for seconds!
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches 145°F for perfect doneness.
Let the coated steak rest for a few minutes before frying to help the breading adhere.
Don’t rush the frying process; patience leads to a crispier crust.
For extra flavor, marinate the steak in buttermilk overnight.
Keep the oil temperature consistent for even cooking.
Equipment Needed
Large Skillet: A cast-iron skillet works wonders, but any heavy-bottomed pan will do.
Meat Mallet: If you don’t have one, a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pot can work.
Shallow Bowls: For mixing the coating and buttermilk, any bowl will suffice.
Whisk: A fork can also do the trick for mixing ingredients.
Slotted Spoon: Perfect for removing the steak from the oil without excess grease.
Variations of Southern Chicken-Fried Steak
Spicy Chicken-Fried Steak: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for a fiery kick that’ll wake up your taste buds.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Vegetarian Version: Use thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms instead of steak, following the same breading and frying process for a delicious meat-free alternative.
Herbed Chicken-Fried Steak: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the flour for an aromatic twist that adds depth to the flavor.
Cheesy Gravy: Stir in shredded cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, into the gravy for a creamy, cheesy finish that takes it to the next level.
Serving Suggestions for Southern Chicken-Fried Steak
Classic Sides: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and collard greens for a true Southern experience.
Refreshing Drink: Pair with sweet tea or a cold beer to complement the rich flavors.
Presentation Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Southern Chicken-Fried Steak
What is Southern Chicken-Fried Steak?
Southern Chicken-Fried Steak is a classic dish made from tender cube steak that’s breaded and fried until golden brown. It’s typically served with a rich, creamy gravy, making it a beloved comfort food in Southern cuisine.
Can I use a different type of meat?
While cube steak is traditional, you can use other cuts like round steak or even chicken for a twist on the classic. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Southern Chicken-Fried Steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain that crispy texture.
Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
What sides pair well with Southern Chicken-Fried Steak?
This dish shines when served with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, or even a simple side salad. Sweet tea or a cold beer makes for a perfect drink pairing!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Southern Chicken-Fried Steak is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with those you love. The crispy, golden crust and rich gravy evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of family gatherings and laughter around the table. Each bite is a celebration of Southern comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary adventure!
A classic Southern dish featuring tender cube steak breaded and fried to perfection, served with a rich and creamy gravy.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound cube steak
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
Vegetable oil for frying
For the gravy:
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by tenderizing the cube steak with a meat mallet if needed, then set aside.
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well.
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until smooth.
Dip each piece of cube steak first into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded steak pieces. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
For the gravy, drain excess oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Whisk in the 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the chicken-fried steak topped with the gravy.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Serve with mashed potatoes or collard greens for a classic Southern meal.
