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Classic Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Country Gravy

Close-up of two golden-brown chicken fried steaks generously topped with creamy white gravy.

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A tender, breaded, and fried beef steak topped with a rich, creamy country gravy. This Southern comfort food classic is perfect for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs cube steak
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For the Gravy:
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the steak: Pound the cube steak slightly thinner if desired. In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, and paprika. In another shallow dish, whisk together eggs and 1/4 cup milk. In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  2. Dredge the steak: Coat each piece of cube steak in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.
  3. Fry the steak: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place breaded steaks in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
  4. Make the gravy: In the same skillet (or a clean one), melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
  6. Serve: Spoon the creamy country gravy generously over the chicken fried steak. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For an extra tender steak, you can tenderize the cube steak further with a meat mallet.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy coating.
  • Adjust gravy consistency by adding more milk if it’s too thick, or simmering longer if it’s too thin.
  • This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes and green beans.

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