Classic Chicken Fried Steak

Ingredients:

  • 4 Beef cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 Eggs (beaten)
  • 1/2 cup Milk
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Breading Station:

    • In one shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to mix evenly.
    • In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.

  2. Dredge the Steaks:

    • Dip each cube steak into the seasoned flour, coating it evenly on both sides.
    • Next, dip the steak into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
    • Return the steak to the flour mixture and dredge it again, pressing lightly to make sure it sticks.

  3. Fry the Steaks:

    • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. You need enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about 1/2 inch deep).
    • Once the oil is hot (test by dropping a pinch of flour in—it should sizzle), carefully place the breaded steaks in the pan. Don’t crowd the skillet; you may need to cook in batches.
    • Fry the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach about 145°F.

  4. Drain the Steaks:

    • Once the steaks are golden and crispy, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

  5. Serve with Gravy:

    • Serve the chicken fried steaks hot with a generous drizzle of white gravy (made from the pan drippings, or use a premade gravy of your choice).

Gravy Tip:

If you'd like to make a simple white gravy to go with the steak, use the pan drippings:

  1. After frying the steaks, remove excess oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan.
  2. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute until golden.
  3. Gradually whisk in 1-1/2 cups of milk and simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This Classic Chicken Fried Steak is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect with a rich, creamy gravy. Serve it with mashed potatoes or a side of greens for the ultimate comfort food meal. Enjoy!

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