Description
A healthier take on classic chicken fried steak, this recipe uses an air fryer to achieve a crispy, golden crust without deep frying. Tender cube steaks are double-dredged in a flavorful seasoned flour and egg mixture, then air fried to perfection. The dish is completed with a rich homemade creamy pepper gravy, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Fried Steak
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup half-and-half or milk
- 4 cube steaks (about 4–5 ounces each)
- Olive oil spray or avocado oil spray
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Milk (as needed to thin gravy)
Instructions
- Prepare the breading station: In two shallow bowls, combine the dry ingredients—flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper—in the first bowl. In the second bowl, whisk together the egg and half-and-half until smooth and well combined.
- Bread the steaks: Dip each cube steak first into the seasoned flour mixture, tapping off excess. Then coat it generously with the egg mixture. Return the steak to the flour mixture for a final coating, gently pressing the flour so it adheres evenly to the surface.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Air fry the steaks: Arrange the breaded steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between them for hot air circulation. Spray the tops of the steaks generously with olive or avocado oil spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the steaks halfway through cooking. After flipping, spray the new top side with cooking spray to ensure even crisping.
- Make the gravy: While the steaks are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux, stirring constantly. Gradually add the half-and-half, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Season with salt and cracked black pepper. Continue to cook and whisk for 3-4 minutes until the gravy thickens. If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency to your liking.
- Serve: Plate the crispy air-fried steaks and generously ladle the creamy pepper gravy over the top. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use cube steaks that are approximately 4-5 ounces each to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer spicier gravy, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the breading or add black pepper to the gravy.
- Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model; adjust time as needed to achieve desired crispness.
- Use a light oil spray to avoid adding too much fat while maintaining a crispy crust.
- Leftover gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently while stirring.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American Southern
Keywords: air fryer chicken fried steak, crispy chicken fried steak, southern chicken fried steak, air fryer comfort food, chicken fried steak with gravy
