If you have a craving for comfort food that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite, then you are going to adore this Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe. This Southern classic features tender beef steak coated in a perfectly seasoned flour mixture, fried to golden-brown perfection, and served with a rich, creamy gravy that complements the crispy exterior beautifully. It’s a nostalgic dish that brings warmth and smiles to any table, and once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component serves a purpose: the buttermilk tenderizes the steak while adding tanginess, the blend of spices in the flour adds depth and flavor, and the eggs and oil work together to create that unforgettable crispy crust. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- 1 pound beef steak (round steak or cube steak): This cut is tenderized by marinating and perfect for frying.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds acidity to tenderize the beef and keeps the coating moist.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the crispy coating; it cages in flavor and texture.
- 2 large eggs: Act as a sticky binder for the flour to adhere firmly to the steak.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors throughout.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle heat and depth to the breading.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note to the crust.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of smokiness and a lovely color.
- 2 cups vegetable or canola oil (for frying): Provides the perfect medium for even frying and crispiness.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Begin by soaking your beef steak in the buttermilk. This step is key because buttermilk’s acidity gently breaks down the meat’s fibers, making each bite tender and juicy. Marinate for at least an hour, but overnight is best if you want maximum tenderness and flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
While the steak marinates, whisk together the all-purpose flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This spice blend transforms the simple flour into a flavorful, golden coating that will make each bite irresistible.
Step 3: Dip and Dredge
Next, beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Take each marinated steak and first dip it in the eggs, allowing the excess to drip off before coating it thoroughly in the seasoned flour. Press the flour onto the steak to ensure it creates a thick, even crust that fries up beautifully crisp.
Step 4: Fry to Perfect Crunchiness
Heat your oil in a deep skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully lay the coated steak in the hot oil and fry for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until the crust is a gorgeous golden brown. This frying process locks in juices while creating that trademark crunchy exterior.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once fried, transfer the steaks to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve your crunchy creation immediately topped with luscious homemade gravy and enjoyed alongside your favorite classic sides. This final step ensures your Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe maintains its ideal balance of crisp and tender.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or chives add a burst of color and a fresh note that contrasts delightfully with the rich gravy and crispy crust. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper over the top can also amplify the steak’s seasoning for added flavor excitement.
Side Dishes
This dish begs for some hearty, comforting sides. Creamy mashed potatoes drenched in the same homemade gravy, buttery corn on the cob, and a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette create the perfect harmony of textures and tastes to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try cutting the steak into strips and serving it as crispy steak bites alongside small bowls of gravy for dipping—perfect for casual family meals or game day. Or build a robust sandwich by layering the steak on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a slather of gravy-infused mayo for an indulgent handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the steak from the gravy to maintain the crispiness of the coating.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked and cooled chicken fried steak by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Remember to freeze the gravy separately in a sealed container to avoid sogginess.
Reheating
To revive the crunch, reheat the steak in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a wire rack for about 10-12 minutes. Warm the gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot, then pour over your revitalized steak just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for chicken fried steak?
Absolutely! While round steak and cube steak are traditional choices due to their texture and tenderness when marinated, you can also use sirloin or even tenderized flank steak. Just ensure the meat is thin enough to cook quickly and be tender.
Is it necessary to marinate the steak in buttermilk?
Marinating in buttermilk is essential for tenderizing the beef and adding moisture, which helps create a juicy interior beneath the crispy crust. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
How do I make homemade gravy to go with the chicken fried steak?
Homemade gravy is typically made by whisking flour into the leftover drippings and oil from frying, then gradually adding milk while cooking until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s creamy, savory, and the perfect accompaniment.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the spices and other ingredients you use are also gluten-free, and your dish will stay just as delicious.
What oil is best for frying chicken fried steak?
Vegetable oil or canola oil is ideal because they have high smoke points and neutral flavors, which allow for even frying without burning or overpowering the taste of your steak.
Final Thoughts
Making this Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe is like inviting a little bit of Southern comfort and nostalgia right into your kitchen. The combination of tender steak, crispy coating, and rich, creamy gravy makes every meal feel like a celebration. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade comfort food—trust me, it’s worth every delicious bite!
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Crispy Chicken Fried Steak with Homemade Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Chicken fried steak is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring tenderized beef steak marinated in buttermilk, then coated with seasoned flour and deep-fried to a crispy golden perfection. Served best with creamy gravy and your favorite sides, this recipe yields a deliciously crispy and juicy meal ideal for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 1 pound beef steak (round steak or cube steak)
- 1 cup buttermilk
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
Frying
- 2 cups vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Marinate the Meat: Place the beef steak in a bowl or resealable bag with the buttermilk and refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably overnight, to tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, mixing well to ensure even seasoning.
- Coat the Steaks: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each marinated steak first into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture to create a thick, even coating.
- Heat the Oil and Fry: In a skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place each coated steak into the hot oil and fry for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and crisp.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried steaks from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with homemade gravy and your favorite side dishes for a classic Southern meal experience.
Notes
- Marinating the steak overnight in buttermilk enhances tenderness and flavor significantly.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure a crispy crust without absorbing excess oil.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of around 145°F if you prefer precise doneness.
- Drain cooked steaks on paper towels to keep them crisp and less greasy.
- Serve with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
