National Chicken Fried Steak Day

Celebrate National Chicken Fried Steak Day with Good Thyme Gal: Comfort Food with Heart 🤎

October 26th marks National Chicken Fried Steak Day, a celebration of one of America’s most beloved comfort foods. Crispy, tender, and smothered in creamy gravy, chicken fried steak is the kind of meal that warms the soul and fills the belly, a dish that brings families and communities together around the dinner table. At Good Thyme Gal, we believe in food that nourishes not just the body, but the spirit too, and this classic Southern staple fits that philosophy perfectly.

Why National Chicken Fried Steak Day Matters

Chicken fried steak may seem simple, but its history tells a story of creativity, resourcefulness, and comfort. The dish likely originated from German and Austrian immigrants who brought schnitzel-making techniques to Texas in the 19th century. Local cooks adapted the recipe using what they had, inexpensive cuts of beef, and turned it into something truly American.

Here’s why this day deserves a spot on your calendar:

• It celebrates culinary creativity. Chicken fried steak is a testament to turning humble ingredients into something extraordinary through skill and tradition.

• It connects communities. From diners to Sunday suppers, this dish is part of countless family recipes and regional food traditions.

• It represents comfort and resilience. Meals like this remind us that delicious food doesn’t have to be fancy, just made with care.

• It supports local ingredients. Celebrating this day is also about honoring ranchers, farmers, and the people who bring food from the field to the plate.

At Good Thyme Gal, we cherish food that’s rooted in heritage and made accessible to everyone. Chicken fried steak’s story, resourceful, flavorful, and full of heart, embodies exactly what we stand for.

Equitable Recipe: Classic Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

This easy, affordable version of chicken fried steak brings golden, crispy satisfaction to your table without breaking the bank.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the steak:

• 4 cube steaks (about 4–6 oz each)

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the gravy:

• 3 tbsp pan drippings (or butter if preferred)

• 3 tbsp flour

• 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Prep the steaks: Pat cube steaks dry. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk.

2. Dredge and coat: Dip each steak in flour mixture, then in the egg mixture, then back into the flour for a double coating. Let rest on a rack for 10 minutes. This helps the coating stick.

3. Fry to perfection: Heat about ½ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry steaks one or two at a time for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Place on paper towels to drain.

4. Make the gravy: Carefully pour off all but 3 tablespoons of oil. Stir in flour and whisk until golden, 1–2 minutes. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve: Spoon creamy gravy over the crispy steaks and serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits.

Equity & accessibility tips:

• Substitute flour with gluten-free all-purpose blend for a celiac-friendly version.

• Use non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option.

• Opt for air frying for a healthier twist with less oil.

• Shop locally for ingredients to support nearby farms and butchers.

Why This Day Aligns with Good Thyme Gal

At Good Thyme Gal, we’re all about celebrating the good things, good food, good company, and good values. National Chicken Fried Steak Day aligns beautifully with our mission because it’s about:

• Inclusivity and accessibility: A humble dish made from affordable ingredients that anyone can enjoy.

• Comfort and connection: The kind of meal that brings people together, just like a good conversation around the table.

• Sustainability and local roots: Encouraging the use of regional, responsibly-sourced ingredients whenever possible.

So on October 26th, grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and celebrate this golden-fried tradition. Because at Good Thyme Gal, every meal, from the simplest to the most special,is a reason to say there’s always a good thyme to eat well and live joyfully. 🤎