Homestyle Chicken Fried Steak

Crispy, golden, and smothered in creamy gravy, chicken fried steak is the ultimate Southern comfort food. Despite the name, this dish doesn’t contain chicken it’s made with tenderized beef, breaded like fried chicken, and pan-fried to perfection. Here’s how to make it at home.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef bottom round, trimmed of excess fat

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 3 whole eggs, beaten

• ¼ cup vegetable oil

• 2 cups chicken broth

• ½ cup whole milk

• ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Tenderize the Meat

1. Preheat oven to 250°F.

2. Cut the beef into ½-inch slices with the grain.

3. Season both sides of each slice with salt and pepper.

4. Place flour in a shallow dish and beaten eggs in another.

5. Dredge each slice of beef in flour, then tenderize using a meat mallet or needling device until ¼-inch thick.

6. Dredge again in flour, dip into the egg, and finish with a final coating of flour.

7. Allow the coated steaks to rest for 10–15 minutes before frying.

Step 2: Fry the Steaks

1. Heat enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Once the oil shimmers, fry the steaks in batches, about 4 minutes per side, until golden brown.

3. Transfer cooked steaks to a wire rack set over a baking sheet and place in the oven to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

1. Add at least 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet (or the remaining oil).

2. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of leftover dredging flour to form a roux.

3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.

4. Whisk until the mixture begins to thicken, then add milk and thyme.

5. Continue whisking for 5–10 minutes until the gravy coats the back of a spoon.

6. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the crispy steaks hot with a generous ladle of creamy gravy. Pair with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits for a complete comfort meal.

Cooking Tips

• Tenderize thoroughly: This ensures the beef is fork-tender and absorbs the breading well.

• Avoid overcrowding: Fry in batches for even cooking and crispiness.

• Keep it warm: A low oven (around 250°F) helps maintain the texture while you prepare the rest of the steaks.

Chicken fried steak is a classic, hearty dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether for a weekend dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.

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