Southern Chicken Fried Steak

Southern Chicken Fried Steak is a classic comfort food that features tender cube steaks breaded and fried to golden perfection, then smothered in a rich and creamy gravy. This dish is perfect for a hearty dinner that brings a taste of the South to your table. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.

Ingredients

• 4 cube steaks, 4 to 6 ounces each
• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups flour, plus 2 tablespoons
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 6 cups milk, divided
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steaks

1. Season the Steaks:
   • Season the cube steaks with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
2. Prepare the Breading:
   • In a shallow dish, combine 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of cornmeal, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Mix well.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
   • In another shallow dish, whisk together 2 eggs and 2 cups of milk until well combined.

Step 2: Bread the Steaks

1. Dredge in Flour:
   • Dredge each seasoned cube steak in the flour mixture, coating both sides well.
2. Dip in Egg Wash:
   • Dip the floured steaks into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Coat in Flour Again:
   • Return the steaks to the flour mixture for a second coating, pressing the flour into the meat to ensure a good crust.

Step 3: Fry the Steaks

1. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet, heat 1 cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Fry the Steaks:
   • Add the breaded steaks to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

1. Remove Excess Oil:
   • Carefully pour off the hot oil from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons of oil and any browned bits in the skillet.
2. Add Butter:
   • Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat.
3. Make the Roux:
   • Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the skillet and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, or until the flour is lightly browned.
4. Add Milk:
   • Gradually whisk in the remaining 4 cups of milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Gravy:
   • Season the gravy with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and additional black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the Steaks:
   • Place the fried steaks on a serving platter.
2. Top with Gravy:
   • Generously spoon the creamy gravy over the steaks.
3. Garnish:
   • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Cube Steaks: Cube steaks are typically used for chicken fried steak because they are tenderized. You can also use round steak or another tender cut of beef.
• Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the breading from becoming soggy. The ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C).
• Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, cook it a bit longer to thicken.

Variations

Spicy Chicken Fried Steak

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.

Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak

• Substitute buttermilk for regular milk in the egg wash for a tangy flavor.

Gluten-Free Chicken Fried Steak

• Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for a gluten-free version of this dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: It’s best to serve chicken fried steak fresh for the crispiest texture. However, you can prepare the gravy and bread the steaks in advance, then fry them just before serving.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, pork chops or chicken breasts can also be used for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: What can I serve with chicken fried steak? A: This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.

Q: How do I make the gravy richer? A: For a richer gravy, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.

Southern Chicken Fried Steak is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy, flavorful crust and rich, creamy gravy, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this hearty meal with your loved ones!