Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy Recipe

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Introduction

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a classic comfort food dish that brings a taste of Southern cooking to your table. This dish is known for its crispy, golden-brown beef steak, which is breaded and fried to perfection, then topped with a creamy, flavorful gravy. Ideal for a hearty dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and bring warmth to any meal. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this delicious dish, from its rich history to the step-by-step preparation process.

Overview of the Recipe

Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern staple that combines tender beef steaks with a crunchy, seasoned coating. The gravy adds a velvety richness, making this dish both indulgent and satisfying. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you need a comforting meal that’s simple yet flavorful. The preparation involves breading the steaks, frying them until golden, and then making a smooth gravy from the pan drippings. The result is a dish that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and drenched in a savory gravy.

History and Origin

Chicken Fried Steak has roots deeply embedded in Southern American cuisine. It’s believed to have been inspired by the German/Austrian dish Wiener Schnitzel, which is a breaded and fried veal cutlet. German immigrants brought this cooking method to the United States, where it was adapted using readily available ingredients like beef. The term “chicken fried” comes from the method of frying the steak in a manner similar to fried chicken. Over time, Chicken Fried Steak became a beloved dish across the Southern states, often served with creamy gravy and mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fried Steak:

  • 4 beef cube steaks: These are tenderized beef steaks, perfect for this recipe.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: Used for the breading, giving the steak its crispy coating.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the steak.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat to the seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness and color to the breading.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the steak with a rich, garlicky flavor.
  • 2 large eggs: Used to bind the flour to the steak.
  • 1/4 cup milk: Mixed with the eggs to create a smooth coating.
  • Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving a golden, crispy crust.

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Forms the base of the gravy.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the gravy.
  • 2 cups milk: Creates a creamy, smooth texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Season the gravy.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice to the gravy.
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor profile of the gravy.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (95°C). This will keep the steaks warm after frying.
  • Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
  • Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup of milk until well combined.

Step 2: Bread the Steaks

  • Dredge the Steaks: Take each beef cube steak and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well coated on all sides.
  • Dip in Egg Mixture: Next, dip the floured steak into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
  • Coat Again with Flour: Finally, return the steak to the flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the steak to form a thick, even coating.

Step 3: Fry the Steaks

  • Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet by about 1/4 inch.
  • Fry the Steaks: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded steaks to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  • Keep Steaks Warm: Transfer the fried steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil, then place them in the preheated oven to keep warm while you prepare the gravy.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

  • Melt the Butter: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
  • Create the Roux: Once the butter is melted, stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly browned.
  • Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to the gravy.
  • Season and Thicken: Continue to cook the gravy, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency (about 5 minutes). Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.

Step 5: Serve

  • Plate the Steak: Place each steak on a serving plate.
  • Add the Gravy: Pour the creamy gravy generously over the top of each steak.
  • Enjoy: Serve immediately while the steak is hot and the gravy is warm.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or corn on the cob. For a complete meal, consider serving it with:

  • Buttermilk Biscuits: Their soft, flaky texture complements the crispy steak.
  • Collard Greens: Add a touch of bitterness and balance to the richness of the dish.
  • Mashed Potatoes: A perfect vehicle for extra gravy.
  • Sweet Tea: A refreshing drink that balances the meal.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Spicy Chicken Fried Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Country Gravy: Replace the garlic powder in the gravy with onion powder for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Panko Crust: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for an extra-crispy coating.

Health Benefits Notes

While Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is an indulgent dish, there are a few ways to make it a bit lighter:

  • Use Leaner Cuts: Opt for leaner cuts of beef to reduce the fat content.
  • Baking Option: Instead of frying, you can bake the breaded steaks at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes for a lower-fat version.
  • Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour for the breading to add extra fiber.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Chicken Fried Steak ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bread the steaks and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying. However, they are best served immediately after cooking for maximum crispiness.

Q: What cut of beef is best for Chicken Fried Steak? A: Beef cube steaks are the traditional choice as they are tenderized and cook quickly, but you can also use round steak or sirloin that has been pounded thin.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Fried Steak? A: Yes, you can freeze the fried steaks. Allow them to cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven until heated through and crispy.

Q: How do I prevent the breading from falling off? A: Make sure to press the flour coating onto the steak firmly and allow the breaded steaks to rest for a few minutes before frying.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a timeless dish that embodies the comfort and flavor of Southern cooking. With its crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior topped with creamy gravy, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to savor every bite of this deliciously indulgent dish!

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