Hey there, food lovers! Are you tired of the same old chicken dinners? Do you crave a hearty, comforting meal that will leave you feeling satisfied? Then get ready to dive into the world of crispy, juicy chicken fried steak with the most delicious gravy you've ever tasted!
Did you know that chicken fried steak is a beloved dish across the United States, enjoyed by millions? It's a true American classic, and we're about to unlock its secrets.
This recipe is so easy, even a beginner cook can master it. And the results? Well, let's just say your taste buds will thank you.
Read on to discover the secrets behind the best chicken fried steak and gravy recipe, and get ready to impress your loved ones with a meal that's both delicious and satisfying.
The Best Chicken Fried Steak and Gravy Recipe (Easy & Delicious)
Craving a hearty, homestyle meal that's both comforting and satisfying? Look no further than Chicken Fried Steak! This classic American dish features a juicy, tenderized steak coated in a crispy, golden-brown breading and smothered in a rich, savory gravy. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
- Easy to follow: This recipe breaks down each step clearly and concisely, ensuring even beginners can achieve success.
- Versatile: Adjust the spices and gravy ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for any occasion: Serve it for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or a special occasion.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Steak:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless beef cube steak (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Steak:
- Tenderize: Using a meat mallet, pound the beef steaks to 1/4-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- Season: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Dredge the steaks in the mixture, ensuring they are fully coated on both sides.
- Dip and Coat: In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, and buttermilk. Dip each steak in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then, return the steaks to the flour mixture and coat them thoroughly.
Cooking the Steak:
- Preheat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry: Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Rest: Remove the cooked steaks from the skillet and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Making the Gravy:
- Melt: In the same skillet used for the steak (no need to wash it!), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes a smooth, golden roux.
- Add broth: Slowly whisk in the beef broth, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches the desired consistency.
- Season: Add the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the gravy. Stir well and continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes.
Serving:
- Slice: Slice the cooked steaks into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
- Drizzle: Generously pour the gravy over the sliced steaks.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, creamy mac and cheese, or steamed vegetables.
Tips for Success
- Don't overcook: Chicken fried steak is best when cooked to medium-rare or medium. Overcooked steak will be dry and tough.
- Use a meat thermometer: For accurate cooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. The USDA recommends a minimum internal temperature of 145°F.
- Rest the steak: After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy steak.
- Adjust the gravy thickness: If the gravy is too thin, simmer it longer or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water.
- Get creative with toppings: Try adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, or a few crispy bacon bits to your Chicken Fried Steak for an extra flavor boost.
How to Choose the Best Steak
- Cube steak: The most commonly used cut for Chicken Fried Steak, this boneless beef steak is already tenderized, making it perfect for quick and easy cooking.
- Round steak: A budget-friendly option, round steak can be tenderized with a meat mallet or by using a marinade before cooking.
- Sirloin steak: For a more luxurious and flavorful take on Chicken Fried Steak, use a sirloin steak.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the steak and gravy ahead of time. Cook the steak and keep it warm in a slow cooker, and prepare the gravy. When you're ready to serve, reheat the steak and gravy separately.
Q: Can I substitute the beef broth for another type of broth? **A: **Yes, you can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even a mix of broths.
Q: Can I use a different type of flour for the breading? **A: **Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, gluten-free flour, or even a blend of flours.
Q: What are some good sides to serve with Chicken Fried Steak? A: Chicken Fried Steak pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, green beans, corn on the cob, and gravy-soaked biscuits.
Conclusion
There you have it - a delicious and easy Chicken Fried Steak recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. With its crispy breading, juicy steak, and rich gravy, this classic American dish is a true crowd-pleaser. So, grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a taste of comfort food perfection!
Call to Action:
Ready to try this recipe? Share your experience making this dish and let us know what you think! Tag us on social media with your #ChickenFriedSteak creations.
So there you have it – a recipe for the best chicken-fried steak and gravy that's both easy and delicious! Now, go forth and conquer your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress. Remember, the key to a great chicken-fried steak is in the breading. Don't be afraid to get those crumbs nice and thick! And for the gravy, don't be shy with the seasonings – pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are your friends.
Once you've mastered this recipe, feel free to experiment with different seasonings and toppings. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the gravy for a little kick, or serve it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans for a hearty and satisfying meal. If you're feeling really adventurous, top it off with a fried egg for the ultimate comfort food experience.
And don't forget to share your amazing chicken-fried steak creations with us! Tag us on social media and let us know how your dish turned out. We would love to see your culinary masterpieces and hear about your experience with this recipe. Happy cooking!
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