Chicken Fried Steak

If you’re craving classic comfort food but want something a little lighter, this chicken fried steak recipe delivers all the crispy, savory goodness without the heavy deep frying. It’s a healthier twist on a Southern favorite, with pan fried cube steak that’s golden and crisp on the outside and tender inside, all topped with a rich, creamy country gravy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal, this dish brings big flavor with less fat and less sodium while still feeling like true comfort food.

This dish brings big flavor with less fat and less sodium while still feeling like true comfort food.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• This chicken fried steak is a lighter take on a Southern classic without sacrificing flavor
• It uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have on hand
• The crispy coating gives you that satisfying crunch without deep frying
• The homemade country gravy is rich, creamy, and comes together quickly
• It’s a family friendly dinner that feels comforting and hearty
• Great option when you want comfort food with a healthier balance

Ingredients

• All purpose flour
• Egg whites
• Cornmeal
• Whole wheat flour
• Cornstarch
• Paprika
• Cube steak
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground pepper
• Canola oil
• Reduced sodium beef broth
• Water
• Half and half

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How It Comes Together

• This recipe starts by building layers of flavor and texture. The steak is first dredged in flour, dipped in egg whites, then coated in a seasoned cornmeal mixture that creates that signature crispy crust. Instead of deep frying, the steak is pan fried until golden, then finished in the oven so it stays tender and juicy.
• While the steak bakes, the same skillet transforms into a rich country gravy. The beef broth reduces to concentrate flavor, then thickens with a quick cornstarch slurry. A splash of half and half brings everything together into a smooth, creamy gravy that’s perfect for spooning over the crispy steak.

Tips for Success

• Pat the cube steak dry before dredging so the coating sticks better
• Press the coating firmly onto the steak to create a crisp crust
• Do not overcrowd the pan when browning the steak
• Let the gravy simmer just until thickened for the best texture
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for balanced flavor

Serving Ideas

• Serve with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious gravy
• Add a side of green beans or roasted vegetables for balance
• Buttermilk biscuits make a perfect addition for a full Southern style meal
• A simple side salad adds freshness to round out the plate

Tips for Entertaining

• Keep the steaks warm in the oven while finishing the gravy so everything is ready at once
• Serve family style on a large platter with gravy poured over the top
• Pair with classic sides like mashed potatoes and greens for a comforting spread
• This dish works beautifully for casual gatherings or Sunday dinners