Name: Chicken Fried Steak with Buttery Country Gravy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 2 pounds cube steak; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy); 2 cups whole milk; Salt and black pepper to taste (for gravy)

If comfort had a flavor, this would be it. Chicken Fried Steak with Buttery Country Gravy is a Southern soul food classic that never fails to satisfy. Crispy, golden-fried beef cutlets smothered in a silky peppered gravy—it’s a dish that brings back memories of Sunday dinners and cozy family tables.

What makes it irresistible? It’s that magical contrast between the crunch of the seasoned crust and the tender cube steak beneath, all drenched in creamy homemade gravy. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weekend treat or craving that down-home flavor midweek, this dish delivers rich, savory goodness every time.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Steak

Ultimate comfort food: Warm, crispy, and smothered in gravy.
Simple pantry ingredients: No fancy ingredients needed.
Foolproof method: Easy enough even for first-timers.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone from kids to grandparents loves it.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

Cube steak is the go-to cut for chicken fried steak. It’s inexpensive and already tenderized, making it perfect for frying. If you can’t find cube steak, you can use top round steak—just pound it thin yourself with a meat mallet until it’s nice and tender.

Ingredients for the Chicken Fried Steak with Buttery Country Gravy

Each ingredient in this dish plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you need and why:

Cube steak: This tenderized cut is ideal for frying and holds onto the crust beautifully.
Flour: The base for that crispy golden coating and for thickening the gravy.
Cornstarch: Helps achieve an extra-light, crispy crust.
Buttermilk: Adds tang and helps the flour stick better.
Eggs: Bind the coating to the steak.
Salt and black pepper: Enhances flavor throughout.
Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika: Adds depth and warm savory notes.
Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil.
Butter: Essential for creating that rich, smooth gravy.
Whole milk: Creates a creamy base for the country gravy.

How To Make Chicken Fried Steak with Buttery Country Gravy

Step 1: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and spices. In another, combine buttermilk and eggs. Dip each cube steak in the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly for a good crust.

Step 2: Fry the Steaks

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each steak for about 3-4 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. Remove and set on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Make the Country Gravy

Pour off most of the frying oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan. Add butter and a few tablespoons of flour. Stir constantly to form a roux, then slowly whisk in milk. Simmer until thickened and creamy. Season generously with salt and plenty of black pepper.

How to Serve and Store Chicken Fried Steak

This dish serves 4 people generously, making it ideal for family-style dinners. Serve hot with a generous drizzle of that peppery country gravy.

Storing Tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best crispiness.
Gravy can be stored separately and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

What to Serve With Chicken Fried Steak?

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect base to soak up all that gravy.

Green Beans

Add a bright, crisp bite with simple steamed or buttery green beans.

Buttermilk Biscuits

Soft, flaky biscuits are great for mopping up every last drop of gravy.

Creamed Corn

Sweet and buttery, this side adds a lovely contrast to the savory steak.

Coleslaw

A tangy slaw cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate.

Mac and Cheese

For true Southern indulgence, serve alongside creamy, baked mac and cheese.

Fried Okra

A crispy, crunchy classic to double down on that Southern vibe.

Side Salad

If you’re aiming to balance the richness, a fresh, crisp salad works well.

Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If this hearty Chicken Fried Steak hit the spot, you’ll love these other comforting mains:

Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a creamy pasta pairing.
Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken if you’re craving a cheesy twist.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a one-pan weeknight dinner.
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for a fun twist on burgers.
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole if you want to sneak in some veggies without losing the comfort.

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Let me know how yours turned out in the comments below! Did you go extra heavy on the pepper? Did you swap the milk for cream? Your variations make this community better.

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