If you're craving something comforting and a bit indulgent, then this Crispy Herb Chicken Fried Steak is just the ticket. With a perfectly seasoned crust and a rich herb-infused gravy, it's a dish that transforms humble ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal.
Cube steak is the star here, providing a tender base for the flavorful crust. You'll want to choose a good quality cut for the best results. All-purpose flour creates the crispy coating. The seasonings—salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried thyme—add depth and a fragrant aroma to the batter. The eggs and milk create a binding wash to help the flour mixture stick to the steak. Vegetable oil and butter are for frying, giving that perfect golden finish. For the gravy, chicken broth and heavy cream make it luscious and smooth, complementing the crispy steak perfectly.
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple side salad to balance the richness. For a classic Southern touch, serve with buttery biscuits to mop up that delicious gravy.
Start by mixing the flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried thyme in a shallow bowl. This will be your seasoned flour mix for dredging. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined—this is your wet batter.
Take each piece of cube steak and first dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then back into the flour mix. This double coating ensures a crispy crust that sticks.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the butter and let it melt, swirling it around to combine with the oil. Carefully place the coated steaks in the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they're golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove the steaks and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
With the skillet still on the heat, add any remaining flour mixture to the pan drippings to form a roux. Stir it continuously to avoid lumps. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and then the heavy cream. Keep stirring until the gravy thickens and becomes smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve your crispy chicken fried steaks immediately, generously ladled with that creamy, herb-infused gravy for a meal that's sure to please.