Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, this Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is the epitome of down-home comfort. Coated in a perfectly seasoned crust and smothered in creamy, peppery gravy, each bite delivers the rich, hearty flavors that make this dish a timeless favorite. Serve it with mashed potatoes or buttermilk biscuits for the ultimate soul-satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a plate of Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy to warm your soul. This comforting classic is the perfect balance of crispy, golden-fried cube steak and velvety, seasoned gravy. Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner or a hearty weeknight meal, this recipe delivers rich, indulgent flavors that feel like a warm hug from the South. It’s easy to make with simple pantry staples, and the results? Absolutely irresistible. Trust me—this is comfort food at its finest!
Key Ingredients
Cube Steaks: Tenderized cube steaks are the heart of this dish, ensuring a tender bite under that crispy coating.
All-Purpose Flour: Used for both the breading and the gravy, this staple creates a crisp crust and a smooth, creamy sauce.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Add depth of flavor to the breading, elevating the simple flour base.
Smoked Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky kick, making the breading extra flavorful.
Eggs and Milk: This combo forms the perfect egg wash to help the seasoned flour cling to the steaks.
Vegetable Oil: Ideal for frying, as it provides a neutral flavor and a crispy finish.
Milk (for Gravy): The base of the creamy gravy, adding richness to every bite.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors in both the steak and gravy.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Coating
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a shallow dish, mix together:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Prepare the Egg Wash:
In another shallow dish, whisk together:
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk.
This will help the flour adhere to the steaks.
Step 2: Coat the Steaks
First Flour Coating:
Dip each cube steak into the flour mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated.
Egg Wash:
Next, dip the flour-coated steak into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully covered.
Second Flour Coating:
Return the steak to the flour mixture for a second coating. Press the flour onto the steak to create a thick, even layer for a crispy crust.
Step 3: Fry the Steaks
Heat the Oil:
Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Test the oil by sprinkling a bit of flour in; it should sizzle without burning.
Fry the Steaks:
Carefully place the coated steaks into the hot oil. Fry for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Do not overcrowd the skillet—fry in batches if needed.
Drain the Steaks:
Remove the cooked steaks and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
Reserve the Drippings:
After frying, leave about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet. Discard the rest of the oil.
Cook the Flour:
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the skillet with the drippings. Stir continuously and cook for 2 minutes, until the roux turns golden brown.
Add the Milk:
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken to your desired consistency.
Season the Gravy:
Add salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the Steaks:
Place the crispy, fried steaks on individual plates.
Smother with Gravy:
Generously ladle the hot, creamy gravy over each steak.
Optional Garnishes:
Top with sliced green onions or a dash of hot sauce for added flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
Southern Chicken Fried Steak is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides:
Mashed Potatoes: Serve the steak alongside creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of that luscious gravy.
Buttered Corn: A simple yet satisfying side that adds sweetness and color to the plate.
Biscuits: Fluffy buttermilk biscuits are the perfect vehicle for sopping up extra gravy.
Green Beans: Add a fresh, crunchy contrast with sautéed or steamed green beans.
Sweet Tea: Complement this indulgent meal with a refreshing glass of sweet iced tea.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftover steaks and gravy in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak stays fresh for up to 3 days, and the gravy for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the steak in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispness. Warm the gravy gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
Freezing: While freshly cooked is best, you can freeze the fried steaks (without gravy) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick, or drizzle with hot sauce for a bold flavor.
Herbaceous Upgrade: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or parsley into the breading for an herby crust.
Cheese-Lover’s Delight: Stir grated Parmesan or cheddar into the gravy for a cheesy spin.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the breading and gravy.
Healthier Swap: For a lighter version, bake the coated steaks on a wire rack at 400°F (200°C) until crispy, rather than frying.
Conclusion
Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort and flavor. With its perfectly seasoned crust, tender steak, and rich, creamy gravy, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or customize it with variations, this recipe brings the joy of Southern cooking to your table. So grab your skillet and get frying—this is one recipe you’ll want to savor again and again!
Southern Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
Ingredients
- 4 tenderized cube steaks about 1/2 inch thick
- 1 cup all-purpose flour for coating
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, for coating and gravy
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk for egg wash
- vegetable oil for frying
- 2 tbsp reserved frying oil for gravy
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour for gravy
- 2 cups milk for gravy
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well. In another shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk to create an egg wash.
- Dip each cube steak into the flour mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Then dip the steak into the egg wash. Return the steak to the flour mixture for a second coating, pressing the flour onto the steak to create a thick, even layer.
- Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Test the oil by sprinkling a bit of flour in; it should sizzle. Fry the coated steaks for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Leave about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet. Add flour and stir continuously, cooking for 2 minutes until golden brown. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Place the fried steaks on plates and generously ladle gravy over each. Garnish with green onions or hot sauce if desired, and serve immediately.
