There are dishes that just bring people together, and for me, Chicken Fried Steak is one of them. Each bite has the balance of crispy coating and tender meat, fried to golden perfection with creamy gravy poured over. It works in so many settings, from family dinners to laid-back gatherings. You'll love that it’s easy to make in batches and store, so leftovers feel just as good the next time around.
Place each steak filet between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until very thin.
1 pound round steak filets
In a small bowl, combine evaporated milk and ½ teaspoon salt. Place 1 cup of plain flour in a shallow dish.
¼ cup evaporated milk, ½ teaspoon salt, 2 cups all-purpose flour
In another dish, mix the remaining 1 cup flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2 teaspoons paprika, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and pepper
Coat each steak first in the plain flour. Dip into the milk mixture. Then coat generously in the seasoned flour mixture. Set aside while you prepare the oil.
In a large skillet, heat 1–2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Vegetable oil
To Make the Gravy:
Carefully pour off all but 3 tablespoons of fat from the frying pan.
Add 2 tablespoons flour to the fat and whisk to combine. Cook for about a minute until smooth and bubbling.
3 tablespoons pan drippings, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Gradually pour in 1 cup milk, stirring constantly over medium heat until the gravy thickens. Add salt and pepper as needed.
1 cup milk, Salt and pepper
Video
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Notes
Use other cuts of beef as a swap: Cube steak is already tenderized, which saves prep time, while top sirloin can be pounded thin for a leaner option with great beef flavor.
Try buttermilk or an egg mixture for coating: Swapping evaporated milk for buttermilk adds tang and tenderness, and using an egg mixture helps the breading stick better for an extra-crispy crust.
Boost flavor with onion powder or cayenne: A little onion powder in the flour adds savory depth, and a pinch of cayenne brings a subtle heat without overpowering the dish.
Double coat for crunch: Press the steak firmly into the seasoned flour for a crispy, thick coating.
Heat the oil enough: Make sure the oil is hot before frying, or the breading can soak up too much grease.
Enhance the gravy with onions: Cooking sliced onions in the pan before making the gravy adds a layer of sweetness and richness that balances the crispy steak.
Whisk the gravy steadily: Keep stirring as the gravy cooks to avoid lumps and get a creamy finish.
Adjust at the end: Taste the gravy right before serving and add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed.