Chicken Fried Steak Picnic

Picnics are fun with homemade dishes like this Chicken Fried Steak recipe.

• For the Steak:
  • 4 cube steaks (about 1 pound)  
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour  
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 large eggs  
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
• For the Gravy:
  • Reserved pan drippings
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • Salt and black pepper (lots of black pepper!)

1. Prepare the Steaks:
   • If needed, pound the steaks to about 1/4-inch thickness.
   • Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Set up the Breading Station:
   • In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
   • In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
3. Bread the Steaks:
   • Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and then dredge it again in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.  
4. Fry the Steaks:
   • Heat about 1/4-inch of oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F).
   • Carefully place the breaded steaks in the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Transfer the cooked steaks to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
5. Make the Gravy:
   • Pour off most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 1/4 cup.
   • Add the flour to the skillet and whisk constantly over medium heat until it turns a light golden brown.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
   • Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Season generously with salt and plenty of black pepper.
6. Serve:
   • Pour the gravy over the chicken fried steaks and serve immediately on a fun sunrise picnic!

Tips:

• Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the correct temperature.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying.
• For extra crispy breading, let the breaded steaks rest for a few minutes before frying.
• For the gravy, adding a little heavy cream to the milk, makes it even more rich.

Perfect Cali Picnic!