Introduction
Nothing says comfort food like a plate of Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy. It’s one of the South’s most beloved meals, and for good reason. Imagine tender cube steak, breaded and fried until crispy and golden brown, then drenched in a smooth, peppery cream gravy that clings to every bite. This dish is hearty, indulgent, and soul-satisfying.
What makes this recipe truly special is how it transforms humble ingredients into something unforgettable. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and ideal for feeding your family after a long day. Whether served with mashed potatoes, green beans, cornbread, or flaky biscuits, it feels like a warm hug on a plate.
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to make this iconic Southern dish, offer helpful tips, and suggest some sides and pairings that will turn your dinner into a true comfort feast.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Fried Steak:
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4 cube steaks (tenderized round steaks)
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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2 large eggs
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½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
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Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Creamy White Gravy:
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3 tablespoons reserved oil from frying
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3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups whole milk
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Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy
1. Prepare the Dredging Station
Start by preparing two shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk until well combined.
2. Bread the Steaks
Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels. One at a time, dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, then back into the flour. Press the flour in well to ensure a thick, crunchy coating.
3. Fry the Steaks
Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F / 175°C), carefully lay the steaks in the pan. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches if needed.
Transfer the fried steaks to a paper towel-lined plate and keep warm while you make the gravy.
4. Make the Creamy Gravy
Pour out most of the oil from the pan, leaving about 3 tablespoons behind along with any flavorful bits. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Continue stirring until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and plenty of black pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Plate each crispy Chicken Fried Steak and pour the warm gravy generously over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Perfect Pairings for Chicken Fried Steak
No Southern meal is complete without delicious side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to serve alongside your Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Buttermilk biscuits
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Southern-style green beans
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Skillet cornbread
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Fried okra or baked mac and cheese
For an even more Southern table, pair your steak with our classic Southern Cornbread Recipe or fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits.
Tips for Success
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Let the coated steaks rest for 5–10 minutes before frying to help the breading adhere better.
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Don’t skip the buttermilk—it helps tenderize the steak and adds a subtle tang. You can make a quick substitute by mixing ½ cup milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
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Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is hot enough for frying. Too cold, and your steaks will soak up the oil; too hot, and they’ll burn before cooking through.
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For added flavor, season your gravy with a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce.
Helpful Links
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Learn more about Southern Chicken Fried Steak and its origins.
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Want to explore more comfort meals? Try our Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese.
Conclusion
Few dishes capture the heart of Southern comfort cooking quite like Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy. It’s crispy, flavorful, and drenched in a homemade white gravy that elevates every bite. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself after a long day, this dish delivers satisfaction with every forkful.
Once you try it, it just might become one of your go-to recipes. So grab your skillet, heat up that oil, and bring a little Southern charm into your kitchen tonight.