Name: Chicken Fried Steak
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb cube steaks (tenderized beef); 1 cup buttermilk (for soaking); 1 cup all-purpose flour (for that crispy coating); 1 tsp salt (for seasoning); 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground for flavor); Oil for frying (enough to coat the bottom of your pan); 2 cups milk (for creamy gravy); 1/4 cup butter (adds richness); 1/4 cup flour (for thickening); 1 tsp black pepper (gives it a kick); Salt to taste (you know, just so it sings!)

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Hello, food lovers! Are you ready to dive into a plateful of pure, finger-lickin’ joy? Today, we’re serving up a delicious Chicken Fried Steak recipe that’s not just scrumptious but also super quick, totally customizable, and oh-so-satisfying! Imagine juicy cube steaks breaded and fried to crispy perfection, topped with a creamy gravy that just screams comfort food. This dish is a heavenly delight that will make your weeknights exciting, all in under 30 minutes!

Let’s face it: we all crave a hearty, homemade meal sometimes, but life can get busy! That’s exactly why this Chicken Fried Steak recipe is the solution to your culinary conundrums. It’s perfect for families with hectic schedules or anyone looking to skip takeout while still indulging in a warm plate of goodness. Plus, you’ll love the endless options for customizations – think herbs, spices, or your favorite sides!

What is the Chicken Fried Steak?

The Chicken Fried Steak is a classic Southern dish that features tender cube steaks, breaded and fried until they’re golden brown and crispy. This one-pan wonder cooks up beautifully in a creamy sauce, making it a quick and cozy meal that you can serve over warm mashed potatoes or alongside fresh veggies for a balanced dinner. With minimal prep time and high-heat cooking, you’ll have a fabulous dinner on the table in no time!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Fried Steak

Okay, let’s talk about the awesome reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this Chicken Fried Steak recipe! Here’s why it’s an absolute must-try:

Quick/Effortless: You can whip this up in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without the fuss.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of the crispy, savory steak along with the creamy, peppery gravy is a match made in flavor heaven, much like how the [Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe] elevates any brunch!
Minimal Cleanup: Who wants to deal with a mountain of dishes? This recipe is made in one pan, meaning you spend less time washing up and more time enjoying your delicious meal.
Versatile for Any Night: Whether it’s a Friday feast or a Wednesday whim, this dish is suitable for any occasion – even brunch! For a twist, serve it with scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast-for-dinner option, similar to what you’ll find in the [Savory Breakfast Casserole Recipe].
Ideal for Weeknight Wins: Impress your family and friends with this easy win! They’ll never know it was so simple to make, and you’ll be crowned the dinner hero.
A Family Favorite Showstopper: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crispy goodness. This is comfort food that brings everyone to the table, paving the way for delightful discussions and lasting memories around the dinner table.

Speedy, savory, and super simple – can you hear your taste buds cheering? It’s time to get cooking!

Meta Info:

Fast, flavorful Chicken Fried Steak with a creamy, peppery gravy—perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or cozy cravings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern

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Chicken Fried Steak Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients! This list will help you create a flavorful Chicken Fried Steak that wows your tastebuds.

Cube Steak Ingredients:

1 lb cube steaks (tenderized beef)
1 cup buttermilk (for soaking)
1 cup all-purpose flour (for that crispy coating)
1 tsp salt (for seasoning)
1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground for flavor)
Oil for frying (enough to coat the bottom of your pan)

Sauce Ingredients:

2 cups milk (for creamy gravy)
1/4 cup butter (adds richness)
1/4 cup flour (for thickening)
1 tsp black pepper (gives it a kick)
Salt to taste (you know, just so it sings!)

Instructions

Ready to cook? Here’s the step-by-step guide to achieving that crispy Chicken Fried Steak in no time. We’ll keep it straightforward and scrumptious!

Prepare the Steaks: Soak cube steaks in buttermilk for 10 minutes. This will make them tender and ready to soak up that extra flavor!
Coat the Steaks: In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge the soaked steaks in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
Fry the Steaks: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated steaks and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and keep warm.
Make the Gravy: In the same pan, melt butter. Stir in the flour and slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps remain. Cook until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Plate the crispy steaks, generously ladle the gravy over the top, and enjoy with your favorite sides!

Nutrition:

Serving Size: 1 serving
Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see your delicious creation!

How to Make Chicken Fried Steak

Let’s delve deeper into our culinary journey with more specific steps:

Prep the Steaks: Soak 1 lb cube steaks in 1 cup buttermilk for 10 minutes for maximum tenderness.
Shape & Coat: In a bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Dredge the steaks until well-coated and ready for frying!
Heat & Brown: In a large skillet, heat up oil over medium-high. Fry the coated steaks for 3–4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden.
Gravy Perfection: In the same skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter, whisk in 1/4 cup of flour, then gradually mix in 2 cups milk, stirring until thickened. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Serve with Love: Top your crispy steaks with the decadent gravy and enjoy!

How Long Will Chicken Fried Steak Last?

Let’s talk storage. You’ll want to keep your Chicken Fried Steak fresh and delicious for future meals!

How Long… in the Fridge?

3–4 days: Just let it cool, pop it in an airtight container, and reheat in a skillet for the best results.

Can You Freeze…?

Yes, it freezes well for about 2 months! Similar to storing leftovers in the [Herbed Chicken Risotto Recipe], ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn!

Signs… Gone Bad:

Slimy texture
Off smells
Discoloration
Visible mold

Which Cube Steak is Best for Chicken Fried Steak?

The quality of your beef matters when making the perfect Chicken Fried Steak!

Best Type…

Boneless Cube Steak: Top pick for tenderness; avoid bone-in cuts for this recipe.

How to Prep…

Slice thin if needed, pat dry before frying to ensure a good sear, and soak for tenderness.

Stabilizing Options…

For extra tenderness, coat your steaks and allow them to sit briefly in the flour before frying, which helps bind the flavors.

Other Cube Steak Options…

Use beef tips for a heartier feel or opt for a plant-based protein if you want to keep it vegetarian.

Final Thoughts…

Elevating this Chicken Fried Steak recipe brings comfort to your table and joy to your palate. It’s a perfect choice for a satisfying meal that’s both quick and delicious!

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Conclusion

In summary, this Chicken Fried Steak is your go-to for quick, flavorful, and comforting dinner any day of the week. With its one-pan approach and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a cherished dish in your home. Grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and dive into this incredible meal! Happy cooking! 🍽️