Chicken fried steak w/ country gravy is the ultimate comfort food, a glorious fusion of crispy, tender meat slathered in creamy, savory gravy. Picture this: a golden-brown steak that crunches delightfully at first bite, while the rich aroma of peppery gravy wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. creamy chicken casserole
Now, imagine sitting down with friends and family, sharing laughter over plates piled high with this Southern delight. Chicken fried steak isn’t just food; it’s a nostalgic trip back to Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house, where everyone gathered for hearty meals and even heartier stories. This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving some soul-soothing comfort after a long day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken fried steak w/ country gravy is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The flavor profile combines savory and peppery notes that dance on your taste buds.
- Visually, the golden crust and creamy gravy create an irresistible presentation.
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or even as part of a breakfast spread.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Round Steak: Choose tender cuts for optimal frying; about 1 pound should do the trick.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best for coating the steak and thickening the gravy.
- Buttermilk: This adds moisture and tenderness; don’t skip it!
- Eggs: Use two large eggs to help bind the flour to the steak.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavor of both meat and gravy.
For the Gravy:
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for cooking; it adds richness to your gravy.
- Milk: Whole milk creates a creamy consistency in your country gravy.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives it that classic kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Station
Set up your cooking area by gathering all necessary tools—mixing bowls, a whisk, a frying pan, and paper towels for draining excess oil.
Step 2: Tenderize the Steak
Using a meat mallet (or a rolling pin if you’re feeling creative), pound that steak until it’s about half an inch thick. Don’t worry about being too gentle; it’s therapy with every smack!
Step 3: Create Your Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. In another bowl, combine flour with salt and pepper. Dip each piece of steak first in buttermilk then coat it fully in flour. Repeat until all steaks are coated.
Step 4: Heat Up That Oil
In a large skillet, heat about half an inch of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a pinch of flour if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
Step 5: Fry Those Steaks
Carefully place each breaded steak into the hot oil. Fry them on each side for about four minutes or until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Make Your Gravy
In the same skillet (don’t waste those delicious drippings), melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in leftover flour from your breading station until smooth. Gradually add milk while stirring continuously until thickened. Add more pepper for flavor.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your chicken fried steak w/ country gravy it’s sure to be a hit!
You Must Know
- This classic Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy brings comfort food to a whole new level.
- It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself.
- Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by tenderizing the steak with a meat mallet for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Dredge the steak in seasoned flour and pan-fry until golden. While the steak cooks, whip up the creamy country gravy using the drippings. Serve together for a delightful meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Try adding cayenne pepper to the flour mix for a kick or swap out traditional beef for pork chops. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving for added flavor and flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the steak in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to revive that creamy gravy without losing texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality meat for better flavor; it really makes a difference in this dish.
- Pay attention to oil temperature; too hot will burn your coating, while too cool can make it soggy.
- Make sure to let the cooked steak rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
Sharing my first attempt at Chicken Fried Steak was unforgettable. My friends couldn’t stop raving about how tender and flavorful it was, making me feel like a culinary superstar!
FAQs:
What is Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy?
Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy is a classic Southern dish made by breading and frying a tenderized beef steak, typically served with a rich, creamy gravy. The name comes from the cooking method, which resembles fried chicken. This dish is comfort food at its finest, often served alongside mashed potatoes or biscuits. The crispy coating contrasts beautifully with the smooth gravy, making it a favorite in homes and diners across the South. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe.
How do you make the perfect gravy for Chicken Fried Steak?
To make the perfect gravy for Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy, start by using the drippings left in the pan after frying. Whisk in flour to create a roux and then slowly add milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. chicken and pasta with garlic Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. For extra flavor, consider adding onion powder or garlic powder to enhance the taste.
Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?
While traditional Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy uses beef, you can certainly substitute chicken if you prefer. Just follow the same breading and frying process for chicken breasts or thighs. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness. The result will be a deliciously crispy chicken dish topped with creamy gravy that still embodies the essence of this beloved Southern classic. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Chicken Burrito Bowls recipe.
What sides pair well with Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy?
When serving Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy, several sides complement it beautifully. Classic options include creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens, or buttered corn on the cob. Biscuits are also a fantastic choice as they can soak up any excess gravy. For a lighter option, consider serving a side salad or sautéed green beans to balance out this hearty meal.
Conclusion for Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy:
In summary, Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy is a delightful Southern comfort food that combines flavorful breaded steak with a rich gravy. This dish is easy to prepare at home and pairs perfectly with various classic sides like mashed potatoes and biscuits. perfect side of baked beans Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal alone, this recipe offers satisfaction in every bite. Try it today for a taste of authentic Southern cuisine!
Chicken Fried Steak w/ Country Gravy
Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is the quintessential comfort food that brings together a crispy, tender beef steak topped with rich, creamy gravy. This Southern classic evokes nostalgia and warmth, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on your own after a long day. With its crunchy exterior and savory flavor profile, this dish promises to impress at any meal, whether it’s brunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef round steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper (for gravy)
Instructions
- Tenderize the beef round steak to about half an inch thick using a meat mallet.
- In one bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. In another bowl, combine flour with salt and pepper.
- Dip each steak in the buttermilk mixture, then coat in flour. Repeat for all pieces.
- Heat half an inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry steaks for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- For the gravy, melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in leftover flour until smooth, then gradually add milk while stirring until thickened. Season with additional pepper.
- Serve fried steaks drizzled with warm gravy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (200g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
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