Best Easy Chicken-Fried Steak with Cream Gravy Recipe

Chicken-fried steak pounded tender, breaded, and smothered in creamy white pepper gravy is a Texas family tradition. This hearty, protein-packed comfort food is Southern cooking at its most indulgent.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 615 kcal
#Southern #comfort food #high protein #family dinner
Image coming soon
Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • cube steak 1.5 lbs
  • all-purpose flour 1 cup
  • large eggs 2 pieces
  • whole milk 0.5 cup
  • vegetable oil 0.67 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 1.5 tsp
  • fresh ground black pepper 1.25 tsp
  • paprika 0.5 tsp
  • onion powder 0.5 tsp
  • garlic powder 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 34 g 22%
Protein 34 g 22%
Fat 35 g 56%
Serving size 290g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Lay each cube steak between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 1/4-inch thickness for tenderness.

  2. 2

    In a shallow bowl, mix flour with salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Whisk eggs and milk in another bowl.

  3. 3

    Dredge each steak in seasoned flour, dip in egg mixture, then dredge again in the flour for a double coat.

  4. 4

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Add steaks in batches, frying 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on a rack.

  5. 5

    For the gravy, discard all but 2 tbsp of oil from the skillet. Sprinkle in 3 tbsp seasoned flour and cook over medium for 1 minute. Whisk in 2 cups milk gradually, stirring and scraping up browned bits, and simmer until thick (about 5 minutes). Season with extra salt and plenty of black pepper to taste.

  6. 6

    Plate steaks hot and ladle generous cream gravy over top, serving immediately.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What ingredients give chicken-fried steak its classic Southern flavor?
The classic Southern flavor in this dish is built on tender cube steak, a seasoned flour blend with black pepper, paprika, onion, and garlic powder, and the creamy white pepper gravy enriched with pan drippings and milk. The double-coating technique adds crunch, while the unique cream gravy defines its comforting identity.
Q. What is the key to achieving a crispy, golden steak without overcooking?
For a crispy, golden crust without overcooking, fry the breaded steaks in hot oil (medium-high heat), ensuring the oil shimmers before adding the meat. Cook steaks in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, and drain on a rack to keep them crisp. Avoid crowding the pan, as this regulates the heat and prevents sogginess.
Q. How do I keep my cream gravy lump-free and smooth?
To maintain a smooth cream gravy, whisk flour into the reserved oil to create a roux and cook it for a minute, which prevents a raw flour taste. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly, scraping the skillet to incorporate browned bits. Simmer until thickened, and season with salt and extra pepper for the signature flavor.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving of this chicken-fried steak?
Each serving contains approximately 615 kcal, delivering a substantial 34 grams of protein. The recipe also provides 34g carbs (22% of total calories) and 35g fat (56% of total calories), offering a hearty, protein-packed comfort meal.
Q. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or high-protein diet?
This recipe is high in protein, with 34g per serving, but it does contain 34g carbohydrates per serving, which may be above typical low-carb thresholds. It is best suited for those seeking a balanced protein-focused comfort meal rather than strict low-carb or keto diets.
AI 채팅 아이콘