Why You’ll Love This Southern Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
You’ll love this Southern Chicken Fried Steak recipe for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The crispy, golden crust gives way to tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth.
Each bite is a delightful combination of savory spices and rich, creamy gravy, making it feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish always brings smiles and satisfied appetites.
Plus, the process of frying and making gravy is a fun, rewarding experience. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients of Southern Chicken Fried Steak
When it comes to making Southern Chicken Fried Steak, having the right ingredients is key to achieving that mouthwatering flavor and crispy texture we all crave. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.
Just imagine the smell of sizzling meat and the sound of the oil bubbling as you cook. It’s like a little celebration in your kitchen. So, let’s gather what we need to whip up this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 pieces of cube steaks (cutlet)
- 2/3 cup flour
- 1/3 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons evaporated milk (like Pet)
- 5 dashes hot sauce
- Vegetable oil or coconut oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup flour (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup pan drippings or 1/4 cup bacon drippings (for gravy)
- 2 1/2 cups milk (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk (for gravy)
- 1/4 cup chicken stock or broth (for gravy)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for gravy)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (for gravy)
Now that we’ve our ingredients lined up, let’s talk a bit about what each one brings to the table. The cube steaks, of course, are the star of the show, providing that tender meat we all love.
The combination of flour and cornmeal creates a crunchy coating that seals in the juices and gives that satisfying crunch with every bite. Don’t skimp on the seasonings; they’re what elevate this dish from just okay to absolutely fantastic.
And the hot sauce? It’s a secret weapon, adding a subtle kick without overwhelming the flavor. So, gather these ingredients and get ready to cook up some comfort food magic.
How to Make Southern Chicken Fried Steak
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this Southern Chicken Fried Steak. First off, start by mixing up your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine 2/3 cup of flour, 1/3 cup of cornmeal, and the seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon each of salt, garlic salt, and onion powder, along with 1 teaspoon of paprika and 1 teaspoon of ground pepper. Give it a good whisk until it’s all blended together. You want those seasonings to dance throughout the mix, so every bite is bursting with flavor.
Set that aside for a moment because we’re going to whip up the wet ingredients next. In another medium bowl, crack open 2 eggs and add in 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of evaporated milk, and about 5 dashes of hot sauce. Whisk it all together until it’s nice and smooth—think of it like a mini workout for your arm.
Now, here comes the fun part. Take your cube steaks and dredge them in your dry mixture first, coating them well. Then, dunk them in the egg mixture until they’re fully covered. Don’t forget to give them another round of the dry mix for that extra crunch we crave. The oil is already heating up in your skillet (make sure it’s about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep), so carefully place your coated cutlets in there. Fry them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown. If you’re like me, you might find yourself peeking under the cutlet like a kid trying to see if the cookies are done baking.
Once they’re perfectly crispy, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess oil. While your cutlets are resting, let’s make that creamy gravy. Pour off all but 1/4 cup of the grease from the skillet, then heat it to medium-high. Slowly whisk in 1/4 cup of flour until it’s blended and starts to darken a bit—watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Gradually add in 2 1/2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This is the moment when you realize you’re almost done. Add in 1/4 cup of evaporated milk, 1/4 cup of chicken stock, and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, and you’ll see it thicken up nicely. Trust me, the smell alone will have everyone gathering around the kitchen like it’s a Thanksgiving feast.
Serve your golden cutlets smothered in rich gravy, and watch everyone’s faces light up. It’s comfort food at its finest. Enjoy!
Southern Chicken Fried Steak Substitutions & Variations
After enjoying that delicious Southern Chicken Fried Steak, you might find yourself wanting to experiment a bit. Instead of cube steak, I often swap in pork chops for a unique twist.
For a gluten-free option, I use almond flour instead of regular flour. Adding crushed cornflakes to the breading gives it an extra crunch, too!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try seasoning with Cajun spices or adding a bit of cayenne for heat.
And don’t forget about the gravy—substituting buttermilk for regular milk adds a tangy richness that elevates the dish.
Enjoy creating your own version!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your chicken fried steak, remember that cooking is as much about personal taste as it’s about following a recipe. Don’t hesitate to adjust spices based on your preference; a pinch of cayenne can add some heat!
If you want a crunchier coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for the final dredge. Also, let the oil heat properly before frying to achieve that golden brown crust.
Finally, don’t rush the gravy—let it simmer for the best flavor. Enjoy each bite, and feel free to experiment; that’s part of the fun of cooking!