A white plate of chicken fried steak with creamy pepper gravy, photographed from above.

Chicken Fried Steak

Crispy breaded cube steak fried golden and drowned in a creamy black-pepper gravy. A Southern diner favorite best served over mashed potatoes.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
20 min
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4 servings
Calories
540 kcal

Ingredients

4 servings

Instructions

  1. Pound the cube steak thin if needed. Season flour with salt, pepper, and paprika.

  2. Whisk eggs with buttermilk in a second bowl.

  3. Dredge each steak in flour, dip in egg, then back in flour, pressing to coat.

  4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Fry steaks 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper.

  5. For the gravy, whisk 2 tablespoons flour into the pan drippings, cook 1 minute, then slowly whisk in milk.

  6. Simmer until thick, season with plenty of black pepper, and pour over the steaks.

Nutrition

Per serving, estimated.

Calories
540 kcal
Protein
35g
Carbs
30g
Fat
30g
Fiber
1g

Tips

  • Let the breading rest 5 minutes before frying so it adheres.
  • Keep the oil around 350°F for an even, crisp crust.
  • Make extra gravy; nobody complains about more.

Variations

  • Add a pinch of cayenne to the flour for heat.
  • Use half-and-half instead of milk for a richer gravy.
  • Swap cube steak for thin chicken cutlets.

Frequently Asked Questions