There's nothing quite like biting into a perfectly crispy, tender piece of chicken fried steak, especially when it's topped with a bold and spicy jalapeño gravy. This recipe takes a beloved Southern comfort food and gives it a little twist, making it an irresistible addition to your minute steak recipes collection. If you've ever wondered how to make chicken fried steak that's packed with flavor and a little heat, you're in for a treat. Whether you're craving a hearty dinner or thinking about an indulgent chicken fried steak sandwich, this version just might become your new favorite.
Chicken Fried Steak with Spicy Jalapeño Gravy
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Tex-Mex
Cast-iron skillet Perfect for even heat distribution. If you don't have one, a heavy-bottomed frying pan will work.
Mixing bowls For your buttermilk soak and dredging station.
Tongs Essential for safe flipping without losing that beautiful breading.
Whisk To create a smooth, lump-free gravy.
Wire Rack Ideal for draining the steaks without making them soggy; if you don’t have one, paper towels on a baking sheet can substitute.
For the Steak
- 4 beef cube steaks or tenderized round steaks
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional, for marinating
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Spicy Jalapeño Gravy
- 3 tablespoons reserved frying oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1-2 jalapeños finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Marinate the Steak
Start by placing your cube steaks (or round steaks, tenderized) in a bowl with the buttermilk and optional hot sauce. Let them marinate for at least an hour, though overnight is even better if you have the time. This step is key for achieving tender, flavorful meat and mimics the technique used in buttermilk chicken fried steak recipes.
Set Up Your Dredging Station
In one bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Remove the steaks from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then dredge them first in the flour, then the egg, and again in the flour. This double-dredging technique ensures a thick, crispy crust, essential for the best chicken fried steak recipe.
Heat the Oil
In your skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. It's ready when a pinch of flour sizzles instantly when tossed in. Carefully lay the steaks into the pan, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Fry the Steaks
Cook the steaks for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain them on a wire rack. This step locks in all the juicy flavor and makes for a truly homemade chicken fried steak experience.
Make the Spicy Jalapeño Gravy
Carefully pour off all but 3 tablespoons of oil from the skillet. Stir in the flour and whisk constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by the diced jalapeños, pepper, and salt. Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
Serve It Up
Plate the steaks and ladle the jalapeño gravy generously over the top. Serve immediately for maximum crispness and flavor.
Pairings in Detail
Chicken fried steak with gravy is an iconic meal, but with the spicy jalapeño twist, it pairs even better with a few fresh sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes soak up that fiery gravy beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the richness of the steak.
- Green Beans: Southern-style green beans simmered with bacon make an irresistible, savory partner.
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet cornbread helps soothe the heat from the jalapeños.
- Mac and Cheese: A gooey mac and cheese adds another layer of comfort to your plate.
For drinks, sweet iced tea or a light lager complements the dish perfectly. And for dessert? A slice of classic pecan pie rounds out the Southern feast.
Tips for Success
- Use a Thermometer: Keep your oil at a steady 350°F for perfect frying.
- Rest Your Steak: Letting your fried steak rest briefly helps maintain its crispiness.
- Don’t Skip the Wire Rack: It really keeps the crust from becoming soggy.
FAQs
1. What meat is best for chicken fried steak?
Cube steak is traditional, but tenderized round steak works great too.
2. Can I use pork instead?
Yes, pork round steak recipes can easily be adapted with the same method.
3. How do I keep the breading on?
Double-dredging and proper oil temperature are key.
4. Can I make a sandwich from this?
Definitely! Just add the steak to a bun with some gravy for an easy chicken fried steak sandwich.
5. Is this recipe spicy?
It has a gentle kick from the jalapeños, but you can adjust the heat to your preference.
