Description
Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring tender cube steaks coated in a seasoned flour and egg batter, fried to a golden crisp, and smothered in creamy homemade gravy. This hearty main course pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes and green beans for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Steak:
- 4 cube steaks (tenderized beef steaks)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (plus extra for gravy)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Breading: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, seasoned salt, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create a flavorful coating for the steaks.
- Mix Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with 1 cup of whole milk, creating a wet dip that helps the flour adhere to the meat.
- Coat the Steaks: Dip each cube steak first into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour again, pressing the flour to coat the meat thoroughly for a crispy crust.
- Heat Oil and Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks one or two at a time for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Steaks: Transfer the cooked steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Make the Gravy: Pour off most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 1/4 cup along with the browned bits. Add butter and let it melt. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of the leftover seasoned flour and whisk to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
- Finish Gravy: Slowly whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, stirring constantly for 5 to 7 minutes until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the chicken fried steaks hot and generously top with the creamy homemade gravy. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic Southern meal.
- For extra crispiness, double-dip the steaks by repeating the flour and egg coating steps.
- You can substitute buttermilk for regular milk in the batter and gravy for a richer flavor.
