Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Fried Steak

1. Prepare the Steaks: Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Prepare the Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
4. Bread the Steaks: Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it in the buttermilk mixture, and finally dredge it again in the flour. Press the flour mixture firmly onto the steaks to ensure a thick coating. Let the breaded steaks rest for about 5 minutes to allow the breading to set.

Step 2: Fry the Steaks

5. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium heat until hot (around 350°F).
6. Fry the Steaks: Gently place the breaded steaks in the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Remove the steaks and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Country Gravy

7. Use Pan Drippings: Carefully remove all but about ¼ cup of oil from the skillet, leaving the browned bits (or drippings) behind.
8. Make the Roux: Add the ¼ cup of flour to the pan drippings and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the flour turns golden brown.
9. Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for 3-5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
10. Serve: Spoon the creamy country gravy generously over the fried steaks. Garnish with extra black pepper for a bit more kick.

Step 4: Serve

11. Plate the Dish: Serve the chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits for a complete Southern-style meal. Drizzle the country gravy over everything for maximum flavor.

Tips for Success

• Cube Steak: Cube steak is commonly used because it’s tenderized and absorbs the breading well, but you can also use round steak if you tenderize it beforehand.
• Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.
• Avoid Soggy Breading: Let the breaded steaks rest before frying. This allows the breading to stick better during cooking.

Conclusion

This Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is a crispy, comforting, and indulgent dish that’s full of Southern charm. The crunchy breading paired with rich, creamy gravy creates the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for family meals, this classic is sure to become a favorite in your home.