Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy Recipe

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

2 large eggs

1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)

Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Gravy:

• 1/4 cup flour (from dredging mix or fresh)
• 2–2.5 cups whole milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste (heavy on the pepper for classic flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Coating

1. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together.

Step 2: Dredge the Steaks

1. Pat steaks dry with paper towels.
2. Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip in egg mixture, and back in the flour, pressing to coat well.
3. Set aside on a tray while oil heats.

Step 3: Fry the Steaks

1. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Fry steaks 2 at a time (don’t crowd the pan) for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

1. Discard all but 2–3 tablespoons of the frying oil from the skillet.
2. Add 1/4 cup flour to the drippings and whisk for 1–2 minutes over medium heat.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 4–5 minutes).
4. Season well with salt and lots of black pepper.

Tips for Success

• Use cube steak for best tenderness and even thickness.
• Don’t skip the double dredge for a thick, crispy crust.
• Let steak rest a few minutes before serving so coating stays crisp.

Variations

• Use chicken breasts instead for true “chicken fried” version.
• Spice it up with hot sauce in the egg mixture.
• Make a sausage cream gravy for extra decadence.

What to Serve With It

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttermilk biscuits
• Southern-style green beans or corn
• Coleslaw or fried okra

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat in oven or air fryer to re-crisp coating
• Gravy can be reheated gently on stove with a splash of milk

Nutrition (Per Steak with Gravy, Approx.)

• Calories: ~620
• Carbs: ~32g
• Protein: ~38g
• Fat: ~36g
• Fiber: ~1g

Conclusion

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. Crispy, savory, and smothered in creamy gravy, it’s a comforting classic that never goes out of style. Make it once, and it’ll be on your regular rotation!