Name: Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 Cube Steaks (About 1 ½ lbs); 1 ¼ cups All-Purpose Flour; ½ tsp Kosher Salt; 1 tsp Fresh Cracked Black Pepper; ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper; ½ tsp Paprika; 2 eggs, beaten; ½ cup whole milk; Vegetable Oil for Frying; 3 Tbsp Butter; 3 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour; 2 Cups Whole Milk; ½ tsp Kosher Salt; 1 ½ tsp Fresh Cracked Black Pepper

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions: When serving Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy, consider pairing it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or buttery cornbread. The creamy gravy complements these dishes perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Garnish: For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, garnish the plated steaks with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Keep Warm: To ensure that your Chicken Fried Steak stays warm and crispy before serving, place cooked steaks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a preheated oven set to the lowest temperature. This will prevent them from becoming soggy while you prepare the rest of the meal.
Serve Immediately: Chicken Fried Steak is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it immediately after frying and ladling the gravy for the ultimate dining experience. The crispy exterior and tender interior are at their prime right out of the pan.
Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain their texture, consider storing the fried steaks separately from the gravy. When reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to crisp up the steaks, and warm the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Freezing: While Chicken Fried Steak can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the steaks before frying them. Place the breaded steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, fry the steaks directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy is not only delicious when served but also maintains its quality for future enjoyment. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this classic dish is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Related recipes:

Gravy Guide: Origins & Varieties

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of steak for this recipe?

While cube steak is traditionally used for Chicken Fried Steak, you can experiment with other cuts such as round steak or sirloin steak. Keep in mind that the texture and tenderness may vary, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the steak is cooked to your preference.

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the gravy thickens too much upon reheating, you can thin it out with a little additional milk or water.

What can I substitute for whole milk in the recipe?

If you don’t have whole milk on hand, you can use low-fat milk or even half-and-half as a substitute for the gravy. However, keep in mind that using a lower-fat milk may result in a slightly less creamy texture. Alternatively, you can use a dairy-free milk such as almond milk or soy milk for a lactose-free option, though the flavor and consistency may differ slightly.

Can I bake the Chicken Fried Steak instead of frying it?

While frying is the traditional method for making Chicken Fried Steak, you can bake it as a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the breaded steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the steaks are cooked through and crispy. Keep in mind that baked Chicken Fried Steak may not be as crispy as the fried version, but it will still be delicious, especially when paired with the homemade gravy.