📝 About This Recipe
A cornerstone of Southern comfort, this Chicken Fried Steak features tenderized cube steak enveloped in a craggy, golden-brown crust that shatters with every bite. This dish bridges the gap between German schnitzel and American frontier cooking, resulting in a soul-warming breakfast staple. Smothered in a rich, velvety black pepper cream gravy, it is the ultimate savory centerpiece for a hearty weekend brunch.
🥗 Ingredients
The Steak
- 4 pieces Beef Cube Steak (approx. 6 oz each, pre-tenderized)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
The Dredge & Batter
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (divided)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup Whole Milk
- 1/2 cup Buttermilk (shaken well)
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1 cup Vegetable Oil (for shallow frying; use peanut oil for higher smoke point)
Black Pepper Cream Gravy
- 1/4 cup Reserved Fry Drippings (including the brown bits)
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (reserved from the dredge)
- 2 1/2 cups Whole Milk (warm)
- 1 tablespoon Coarsely Ground Black Pepper (essential for flavor)
- to taste Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If the steaks look thick, use a meat mallet to pound them to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness.
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2
Prepare your dredging station: In one wide, shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne.
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3
In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and 1/2 cup of whole milk until well combined.
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4
Dredge each steak first in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Dip the steak into the egg/milk mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, then return it to the flour for a final, heavy coating.
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5
Press the flour firmly into the meat with the palms of your hands to ensure the 'crust' adheres. Place the breaded steaks on a wire rack for 10 minutes; this helps the coating set so it doesn't fall off during frying.
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6
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the heat by dropping a pinch of flour into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
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7
Carefully place two steaks into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until the crust is a deep golden brown and the meat is cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
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8
Transfer the cooked steaks to a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet. Keep them warm in a 200°F oven while you fry the remaining steaks and prepare the gravy.
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9
Carefully pour off all but 1/4 cup of the frying oil from the skillet, making sure to keep those flavorful browned bits (fond) in the pan.
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10
Over medium heat, whisk in 1/4 cup of the seasoned flour used for dredging. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it turns a light golden tan color.
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11
Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency (usually 4-5 minutes).
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12
Stir in the heavy dose of black pepper and taste for salt. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash more milk.
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13
Plate the steaks and generously ladle the hot cream gravy over the top, leaving some of the crispy edges exposed for texture contrast.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always let the breaded meat rest for 10 minutes before frying; this prevents the breading from separating from the meat. Use a cast-iron skillet for the most even heat distribution and a superior crust. Warm your milk before adding it to the roux to ensure a silky-smooth gravy without lumps. Don't skimp on the black pepper—it is the signature flavor profile of a true Southern white gravy. If you can't find cube steak, use top round or sirloin and tenderize it heavily with a spiked meat mallet.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside two over-easy eggs and buttery hash browns for a classic 'Truck Stop' breakfast. Pair with fluffy, homemade buttermilk biscuits to soak up the extra gravy. A side of garlicky sautéed spinach or green beans adds a nice pop of color and freshness to the plate. Complement the richness with a tall glass of iced tea or a bold, dark roast coffee. For a spicy kick, serve with a bottle of your favorite vinegar-based hot sauce.