When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartiness of chicken fried steak served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and rich, flavorful gravy. This iconic Southern meal is the perfect blend of crispy, tender steak with smooth, buttery potatoes and a savory sauce that ties it all together. Whether you’re cooking for a Sunday dinner, a special occasion, or just craving something truly satisfying, this dish will never disappoint. Let’s dive into how to make this timeless comfort food.
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak, despite its name, has nothing to do with chicken. It’s a steak that is breaded and fried, similar to fried chicken, which is how it earned its name. Traditionally made using cube steak (a tenderized cut of beef), the meat is dredged in seasoned flour, dipped in a milk-egg mixture, and then fried to a golden perfection. The crunchy coating on the outside and the juicy beef inside are what make this dish so beloved. While the steak is the star of the show, the creamy mashed potatoes and peppery gravy are essential sides that elevate this meal into a comforting feast.
History of Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is deeply rooted in Southern cuisine but has European influences, particularly from the German and Austrian immigrants who brought with them recipes for schnitzel. Over time, the dish evolved in the U.S., particularly in Texas, where the technique of frying breaded beef cutlets in a manner similar to fried chicken became popular. It has since become a staple of Southern comfort food and can be found in diners and restaurants all across America.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak
To make the best chicken fried steak, you’ll need just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients. The steak itself is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to a crispy, golden brown perfection. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken Fried Steak:
- 4 cube steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gravy:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Fried Steak
Start by preparing your breading station. In one shallow bowl, combine the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper for seasoning. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Pat the cube steaks dry with a paper towel to help the breading stick better.
Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour firmly into the steak to make sure it adheres well. Next, dip the steak into the egg and milk mixture, coating it thoroughly. Finally, dredge the steak again in the seasoned flour for a double layer of breading. Set the steaks aside on a wire rack to rest while you prepare the oil for frying.
Step 2: Fry the Steaks
Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry, but not too hot to burn the coating. Test the heat by dropping a small pinch of flour into the oil—if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
Carefully place the steaks into the hot oil, cooking two at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry the steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Mashed Potatoes
While the steaks are frying, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the heavy cream, butter, and milk to the potatoes, and mash them until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Gravy
After frying the steaks, you’ll want to make the gravy using the flavorful bits left in the pan. Carefully drain most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 2-3 tablespoons and the browned bits. Lower the heat to medium.
Add the flour to the pan and whisk it into the oil, cooking for about 1 minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the gravy thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and plenty of black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
To serve, place a crispy chicken fried steak on a plate, next to a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes. Ladle the rich gravy over both the steak and potatoes. For a classic Southern meal, you can add some green beans or a side salad.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
- Double Breading: Don’t skip the double coating of flour—it’s essential for getting that crispy crust that defines chicken fried steak.
- Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked; too low, and the breading will soak up oil and become soggy.
- Use Cube Steak: Cube steak is the traditional cut for chicken fried steak because it’s tenderized, making it ideal for this recipe. If you can’t find cube steak, you can use a tenderized round steak.
- Gravy Consistency: For a thicker gravy, add more flour; for a thinner gravy, use more milk. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more black pepper for a bolder flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This classic Southern dish is a meal that sticks to your ribs and satisfies every craving for comfort food. The crunchy breading of the steak contrasts beautifully with the smooth and rich mashed potatoes, all smothered in creamy, peppery gravy. It’s a dish that offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors, from the crispy exterior of the steak to the soft, buttery mashed potatoes.
Chicken fried steak is also incredibly versatile. It can be dressed up for a special dinner or served simply as a casual weeknight meal. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike. The hearty nature of the dish makes it a great choice for family gatherings or when you just want a comforting meal that feels like home.
Conclusion
This recipe for classic chicken fried steak with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy is a true comfort food that you’ll want to add to your regular meal rotation. With its crispy fried steak, smooth mashed potatoes, and rich gravy, it’s a dish that will leave everyone at the table satisfied. Try this recipe out for your next family dinner or weekend treat, and enjoy the flavors of the South right in your own kitchen.
