Chicken Fried Steak Recipe – How to Make The Best Chicken Fried Steak

Last Updated on February 15, 2026 by Barbara

Chicken fried steak is a classic comfort food dish that is popular everywhere. We all know the dish is not fried chicken, but rather cube steak coated in batter and fried to perfection. The name was coined because the breading process was similar to that of fried chicken. The crispy batter, the tender beef, and the rich gravy come together to create a truly satisfying dish. It is the perfect food to enjoy any day of the week. It can be served with mashed potatoes, green beans or rice. My recipe is delicious, simple and very easy to follow.

What is Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken fried steak is a universally beloved Southern dish. The term “chicken-fried” simply refers to a steak that is fried in the same manner as fried chicken. The steak is also prepared in the same way as you would prepare fried chicken. It is dredged in seasoned flour then fried to perfection.

Key Ingredients

Chicken fried steak is made with simple pantry staples.

Note: The full ingredient list with exact measurements is in the recipe card below.

• Cube Steak – Tenderized beef that cooks quickly and stays fork-tender under a crispy coating.
• Flour – Creates the dredge that forms the classic crunchy crust and also helps thicken the gravy.
• Egg – Binds the coating to the steak so the breading sticks and fries up crisp.
• Milk – Adds richness to the egg wash and makes the gravy creamy and smooth.
• Baking Powder – Lightens the coating, helping it fry up airy and extra crisp instead of dense.
• Paprika – Adds mild smoky-sweet flavor and helps deepen the golden color of the crust.
• Onion Powder – Gives a savory, well-rounded onion flavor throughout the breading.
• Garlic Powder – Adds warm, garlicky depth that boosts the overall seasoning.
• Salt – Essential for bringing out the flavor in the steak, crust, and gravy.
• Black Pepper – Adds the signature peppery bite, especially important for classic gravy flavor.

Watch Me Make Chicken Fried Steak (Video Tutorial)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Egg Wash

An egg wash is a mixture of beaten eggs and milk or water. The egg wash will help create a crispy crust on the beef and also helps it to cook more evenly.

In a shallow bowl, combine milk and egg and whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Make the Seasoned Flour

In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, and garlic powder until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Batter the Steak

Note: The batter protects the meat from the high heat of the frying oil. It also helps to prevent the steak from sticking to the pan. The batter adds the signature texture of chicken fried steak.

Dredge the steaks in the egg mixture, then the flour, then gently shake to remove the excess flour, then place them on a wire rack.

Step 4: Fry the Steaks

Add your oil to your cast iron skillet and heat oil to 350°F. Fry your steaks for 4 minutes on each side (or until you have an internal temperature of 145°F) making sure to achieve a golden brown crust. After eight minutes remove them from the pan and transfer to a paper towel lined plate and set aside. Make sure to keep them warm while making the gravy.

Step 5: Making the Gravy for the Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak can be prepared with white gravy or slightly browned gravy. For this recipe I will be making a brown gravy.

Note: if you want to achieve a white gravy, only cook the flour just until it begins to darken.

Carefully pour off most of the oil, leaving about 5 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add five tablespoons of the seasoned flour mixture to the pan, and mix until it has browned. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue whisking until smooth and creamy.

Season with ¼ teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper and continue to mix until you achieve a creamy gravy.

Step 6: Combining the Steak with Gravy

Spoon the gravy over the steaks and serve immediately.

Tips for The Best Chicken Fried Steak

Ingredients and Preparation

• Use cube steak: Make sure to use cube steak that has already been tenderized.
• Season well: Seasoning the flour and meat is key to a great taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings.
• Let coating set: Resting breaded steaks on a rack helps the crust hold.

Frying

• Heat oil to 350°F: This is the sweet spot for a crisp crust without greasy steak.
• The Coating: Make sure to lightly coat the steak to prevent it from being too heavy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches so the oil temperature stays steady.
• Drain Properly: Place them on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.

Making the Gravy

• Use the drippings: This is where you will find all the goodness that will give your gravy that great taste.
• Whisk constantly: This prevents lumps and keeps the gravy silky.
• Season the gravy: Season the gravy that suits your taste.

Final Touches

• Serve immediately: Chicken fried steak is best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the pan for the ultimate flavor and texture.

Follow these simple tips and you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delicious and satisfying chicken fried steak you’ve ever tasted!

Soul Food Cooking 101 — Classic Soul Food Recipes: Preserving the Legacy of Authentic Southern Cooking.

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