Golden, crispy, and dripping with creamy gravy, Chicken Fried Steak is a comforting classic that tastes like a warm Southern hug. It takes humble cube steak and transforms it into something gloriously indulgent with a seasoned breading and rich, peppery cream gravy. The crunch of the coating paired with the tender, juicy meat inside makes this dish hard to beat.

Whether you grew up on this Southern staple or it’s your first time making it at home, there’s something incredibly satisfying about the simplicity and flavor of Chicken Fried Steak. With just a few pantry ingredients and a skillet, you can whip up a hearty meal that feels like a Sunday supper any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Steak

It’s the definition of comfort food. The crispy breading is light and golden, and the creamy gravy is rich without being heavy. It satisfies savory cravings with a balance of texture and flavor. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, feeds a crowd, and is perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes, green beans, or even biscuits.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Chicken Fried Steak?

The best cut for Chicken Fried Steak is cube steak. It’s a tenderized cut of beef, usually top round or top sirloin, that has been run through a mechanical tenderizer. That distinctive dimpled look is what helps the breading cling to the meat, and it cooks quickly in the skillet, making it ideal for frying. If you can’t find cube steak, you can also use thinly pounded sirloin or round steak and tenderize it yourself.

Ingredients for the Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

The ingredients here are straightforward, and likely already in your kitchen. Each one plays a key role in bringing together this down-home favorite.

Cube steak is the heart of this recipe, tenderized and ready to soak up all that seasoned breading.

All-purpose flour is what gives the steak its crispy coating and also thickens the gravy.

Eggs help bind the breading to the steak for a crunchy, golden crust.

Buttermilk adds a slight tang and makes the breading extra flavorful and tender.

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning both the steak and the gravy.

Garlic powder and paprika bring warmth and a touch of smokiness to the breading.

Vegetable oil is perfect for shallow frying, giving the steak a golden crisp without overpowering the flavor.

Butter adds richness when starting the gravy and enhances the creamy texture.

Milk is the base of the gravy, making it smooth and luscious.

How To Make the Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

Step 1: Prepare the Dredging Station

Set up two shallow dishes: one with a mix of flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika; the other with whisked eggs and buttermilk. Dredge each cube steak in flour, then egg mixture, then back in flour, pressing to adhere.

Step 2: Fry the Steaks

In a large skillet, heat about a half inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, fry the steaks two at a time until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Gravy

Discard most of the oil, leaving 2 tablespoons in the skillet. Add butter, then whisk in 3 tablespoons of the leftover seasoned flour. Cook for a minute, then slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Let simmer until thickened. Season with salt and lots of cracked black pepper.

Serving and Storing Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

Chicken Fried Steak is best served hot and fresh, straight from the skillet. Spoon that luscious gravy generously over each piece just before serving. This recipe yields 4 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner.

If you have leftovers, store the steak and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak in the oven or air fryer to regain its crisp texture, and warm the gravy on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

What to Serve With Chicken Fried Steak?

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic pairing, catching every drop of that silky gravy.

Green Beans

A bright, buttery side of green beans adds a fresh, crisp balance.

Buttermilk Biscuits

Fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last bit of gravy on your plate.

Mac and Cheese

For an ultra-indulgent meal, creamy mac and cheese brings extra comfort.

Corn on the Cob

Grilled or boiled corn offers a sweet contrast to the savory steak.

Coleslaw

Tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy, cool counterpoint to the warm fried steak.

Fried Okra

A Southern favorite that adds even more crunch to your plate.

Classic Caprese Salad

Add a fresh twist with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It’s simple and refreshing.

Want More Southern Dinner Ideas?

If this crispy Chicken Fried Steak made your night, check out these comforting dinner favorites from the Janet Dishes kitchen:

Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms for another skillet meal.
No Peek Chicken Casserole if you want something hands-off but delicious.
Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese for an extra cheesy companion.
Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a lighter but flavor-packed dinner.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells for more skillet steak goodness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how your Chicken Fried Steak turned out. Did you add cayenne to spice things up? Serve it with a fried egg on top?

I love hearing the creative ways you bring these dishes to life. Got questions? Drop them below and let’s cook better together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy dinner favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next comfort meal inspiration!

Conclusion

This Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy is a Southern treasure that delivers every time. With its crispy crust, tender beef, and homemade gravy, it deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation. Comforting, nostalgic, and always satisfying, it’s the kind of meal that feels like home.