Global Food Traditions

Traditionally, Chicken Fried Steak is served smothered in creamy, peppery white gravy, making it a hearty and satisfying meal often enjoyed at breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This dish has roots that blend Southern cooking with German and Austrian influences, similar to Wiener Schnitzel, but adapted to American ingredients and tastes. It has since become a staple in diners, home kitchens, and comfort-food restaurants across the country.

Paired with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits, Chicken Fried Steak delivers a nostalgic, soul-soothing experience that’s both simple and indulgent. The crispy breaded coating, tenderized beef, and rich gravy create a perfect combination of texture and flavor.

For those eager to try this classic dish at home, there are countless food recipes available online. Platforms like Cookpad offer step-by-step instructions and variations, allowing members of the Home Cook worldwide community to recreate this Southern comfort classic with ease. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, you'll find accessible guides that help bring this dish to life.

If you're searching for comfort food with a story and tradition behind it, Chicken Fried Steak is a must-try. Explore new twists and keep your recipe collection fresh with more food recipes that capture the heart of regional American cooking.

Chicken Fried Steak Recipe (Serves 4)

Ingredients

For the steak:

• 4 cube steaks (about 4-6 oz each)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup buttermilk or milk

• Vegetable oil or shortening for frying

For the white gravy:

• 4 tbsp butter

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 cups whole milk

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the steaks:

• Pat the cube steaks dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.

• In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

• In another bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.

2. Bread the steaks:

• Dip each steak first in the flour mixture, coating completely.

• Then dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.

• Finally, dredge again in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere well. Set aside on a plate.

3. Fry the steaks:

• Heat about ½ inch of oil or shortening in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

• Fry steaks for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Make the gravy:

• Pour off excess oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons along with any browned bits.

• Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.

• Gradually whisk in milk, scraping up browned bits. Cook, whisking constantly, until gravy thickens, about 4–6 minutes.

• Season generously with salt and pepper.

5. Serve:

• Spoon gravy generously over the fried steaks and serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits.

Chicken Fried Steak FAQs

Q: What cut of beef is best for Chicken Fried Steak?
Cube steak is traditional because it’s tenderized and cooks quickly. You can also use round steak or sirloin thinly pounded.

Q: Can I bake instead of fry the steaks?
Frying is preferred for the crispy crust, but you can bake breaded steaks at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: How do I get the gravy nice and creamy?
Whisk the gravy constantly to avoid lumps, and cook it until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.

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