What makes a comforting weeknight dinner truly unforgettable? A hearty chicken fried steak with rich homemade gravy, of course, made easy with a simple dredge and fry method using tenderized steak and all-purpose flour. Save this idea for a quick family favorite meal that is sure to become a staple. Try it soon and enjoy the homemade flavors. Pin for later and make it your own easy weeknight dinner solution.

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

Introduction

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a classic comfort food dish that combines the richness of steak with the crispy, golden goodness of fried chicken. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner routine or impress their family and friends with a hearty, homemade meal. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires only a few everyday ingredients. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes the perfect balance between the savory flavor of steak, the crunch of the breading, and the richness of the gravy, all using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation and flavor, Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills and effort.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of a tender steak, crispy breading, and velvety gravy makes for a dish that looks and tastes like it was made in a professional kitchen, but can be achieved with just a few simple steps.

Key Ingredients

To make Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy, you’ll need a few key ingredients, including a cut of steak (such as top round or top sirloin), all-purpose flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, and oil for frying. For the gravy, you’ll need some of the pan drippings, flour, and milk or cream. Practical substitutions can be made for some of these ingredients, such as using panko breadcrumbs for a lighter crust or swapping out the milk for a non-dairy alternative. The steak can also be substituted with a similar cut, depending on what’s available in your area.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your steak. Trim any excess fat and cut it into a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
2. Step 2: Next, prepare your breading station. In one shallow dish, mix together the flour, a pinch of salt, and any other desired seasonings. In another dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs. Dip each piece of steak first in the flour, coating both sides evenly, then in the eggs, making sure to coat completely, and finally in the breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs gently onto the steak to ensure they stick.
3. Step 3: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry the breaded steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steaks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Step 4: To make the gravy, remove all but about 2 tablespoons of the oil from the skillet. Add a tablespoon of flour and whisk it into the oil to make a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly add in milk or cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring occasionally. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Handy Tips

• When breading the steak, make sure to press the crumbs gently onto the meat to ensure they stick. This will help the breading stay in place during frying.
• To avoid the breading from falling off during frying, do not overcrowd the skillet. Fry the steaks one or two at a time, depending on the size of your skillet.
• For an extra crispy breading, you can chill the breaded steaks in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying. This will help the breadcrumbs set and adhere to the steak better.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when making Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy. The ideal temperature for frying the steaks is between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the breading will burn before the steak is cooked through. If the oil is too cold, the breading will absorb too much oil and be greasy. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the steak should be at least 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well done.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor is a critical component of Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy. To achieve a crispy breading, make sure the oil is at the right temperature and do not overcrowd the skillet. Also, do not stir the steaks too much while they are frying, as this can disrupt the formation of the crust. For an extra crunchy breading, you can try using panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and crisper than regular breadcrumbs.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make the dish more efficient, prepare the gravy while the steaks are frying. This way, everything will be ready at the same time, and you can serve the steaks hot with the gravy spooned over the top.
• For a shortcut, use store-bought gravy mix or pre-made gravy. However, keep in mind that homemade gravy is generally more flavorful and has a better texture.
• To make cleanup easier, line your skillet with parchment paper or a silicone mat before frying the steaks. This will prevent the breading from sticking to the skillet and make washing up much simpler.

Storage Tips

• Leftover Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the steaks in the oven or microwave until hot and crispy, and reheat the gravy on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
• The steaks can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply place the steaks in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat frozen steaks in the oven or microwave until hot and crispy.
• For the best results, store the steaks and gravy separately. This will prevent the breading from becoming soggy and the gravy from absorbing into the steak.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is typically a dish that’s served hot and fresh, it can also be packaged and given as a gift. Consider placing individual portions in microwave-safe containers, such as glass or plastic bowls, and topping with a lid or plastic wrap. You can also include a side of mashed potatoes, eggs, or toast for a complete meal. Add a ribbon or gift tag with cooking instructions, and you have a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends, family, or neighbors.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some dried or fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley, to the breading mixture for a unique flavor twist.
• Creative toppings: Top the steaks with some sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Swap out the steak for chicken or pork, or use a combination of meats for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the breading is too dense or heavy, try using a lighter type of breadcrumb, such as panko. If the steak is too tough, try cooking it to a lower internal temperature or using a more tender cut of meat.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken and curdle before using.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the steaks are overcooked, they will be dry and tough. If they are undercooked, they will be pink and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steaks are cooked to a safe internal temperature.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy for up to 2 months. Simply place the steaks in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Is it gluten-free? The breading mixture contains gluten, but you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or substituting with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to ensure the steaks are cooked through and the breading is crispy.

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy breading, tender steak, and rich gravy, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients and equipment. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs from your family and friends. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make the recipe your own, and be sure to share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #chickenfriedsteak. Happy cooking!