Classic Southern Chicken Fried Steak: A Comfort Food Delight

Dive into the hearty and comforting flavors of Classic Southern Chicken Fried Steak. This beloved dish features tender, crispy-coated cubed steak served with rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe brings the warmth of Southern cooking straight to your kitchen.

Chicken Fried Steak has always been a favorite in our family. My husband, who grew up in the South, often reminisces about his grandma’s famous chicken fried steak. When I first made this dish, the look of delight on his face said it all. Now, it’s a regular request at our dinner table. Our kids love helping with the dredging process, making it a fun family cooking experience. This recipe has quickly become a cherished part of our family’s culinary traditions.

Why This Chicken Fried Steak?

• Tender and Juicy: Cubed steak, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, creates a perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Rich and Creamy Gravy: The homemade gravy, made from pan drippings, adds a rich, savory finish to the dish.
• Flavorful Coating: Cajun seasoning in the flour mixture gives the steak a delicious kick, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Classic Comfort: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, offering a satisfying and hearty meal that everyone will love.
• Family Favorite: Easy to make and loved by all ages, it’s a great recipe to bring the family together.

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Fried Steaks:
  • 1 pound (450g) cubed steak
  • 1 cup (120g) flour
  • 2 tablespoons (16g) cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• For the Gravy:
  • 1/4 cup (30g) flour
  • 2 cups (480ml) milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the Steaks: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and Cajun seasoning. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
2. Dredge the Steaks: Dredge each steak first in the flour mixture, then dip in the buttermilk and egg mixture, and finally dredge again in the flour mixture, ensuring each steak is well-coated.
3. Heat the Oil: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) of vegetable oil covering the bottom.
4. Fry the Steaks: Fry the steaks one at a time in the hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer the cooked steaks to a rack to drain any excess oil while you cook the remaining steaks.
5. Make the Gravy: After frying the steaks, drain off all but 3 tablespoons of the cooking oil from the skillet. Return the skillet to medium heat, sprinkle in the flour, and cook until it turns a deep golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Thicken the Gravy: Slowly add the milk to the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Serve the chicken fried steaks hot, smothered with the creamy gravy. Enjoy with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Notes:

• Substitutions: For a lighter version, you can bake the steaks instead of frying. Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Cooking Tips: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy coating. Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent oil temperature.
• Nutritional Info: This dish is high in protein and can be paired with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal.