The Best Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Country Gravy
This crispy chicken fried steak is golden, juicy, and smothered in rich, peppery country gravy. A classic Southern comfort food recipe that’s easy to make at home and better than any diner version.
- Prep Time: 15 MINUTES
- Cook Time: 20 MINUTES
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 SERVINGS 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: SOUTHERN
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Fried Steak:
- 4 cube steaks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Oil for frying
For the Country Gravy:
- ¼ cup pan drippings (or butter)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 to 2 ½ cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Set up dredging station
In one bowl, mix flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk. - Dredge the steak
Coat each cube steak in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and back into the flour. Press the flour firmly into the meat. - Rest the coating
Let the breaded steaks sit for 5–10 minutes so the coating sticks. - Fry the steaks
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F). Fry steaks 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. - Make the gravy
Remove excess oil, leaving about ¼ cup drippings. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. - Simmer and season
Cook until thickened, then season generously with salt and black pepper. - Serve
Spoon gravy over the chicken fried steak and serve hot.
Notes
- Letting the coating rest before frying helps prevent it from falling off
- Keep oil temperature steady for the crispiest texture
- Use plenty of black pepper in the gravy for classic flavor
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying
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