Name: Classic Chicken Fried Steak Recipe: Southern Comfort at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 cube steaks (or round steak, pounded thin); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 cups whole milk; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon hot sauce (for buttermilk mixture); Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Chicken fried steak is a beloved Southern dish that embodies comfort and nostalgia. This crispy, golden-brown steak smothered in creamy country gravy is a staple on many Southern dinner tables, bringing warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

This dish has deep roots in Southern cuisine, with influences from German and Austrian immigrants who introduced similar breaded meat dishes like schnitzel. Over time, chicken fried steak became a signature comfort food across Texas and beyond.

What makes this Classic Chicken Fried Steak Recipe special? It features a perfectly crispy, seasoned coating, a juicy and tender steak inside, and a rich, flavorful gravy that ties everything together. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.

What Is Chicken Fried Steak?

Definition and Origins

Chicken fried steak is a breaded and fried beef steak, typically made with cube steak, that mimics the texture and cooking method of fried chicken hence the name. It’s pan-fried to crispy perfection and served with a creamy country-style gravy.

Difference Between Chicken Fried Steak and Country Fried Steak

Many people confuse chicken fried steak with country fried steak, but they are slightly different:

Chicken Fried Steak: Dredged in a seasoned flour mixture, dipped in buttermilk, re-coated, and fried until crispy. It is always served with white country gravy.
Country Fried Steak: Typically dredged only once in flour, giving it a lighter crust. It’s often served with brown gravy instead of white.

Why It’s a Staple in Southern Cuisine

Chicken fried steak is a budget-friendly, satisfying meal that has stood the test of time. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, biscuits, and green beans, making it a classic comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Steak:

4 cube steaks (or round steak, pounded thin)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Gravy:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups whole milk
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Additions:

½ teaspoon hot sauce (for buttermilk mixture)
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Best Cut of Meat for Chicken Fried Steak

Why Cube Steak is the Best Choice

Cube steak is pre-tenderized beef, making it the ideal choice for chicken fried steak. Its thin, slightly rough texture helps the coating adhere well and gives it that signature crispy bite.

Other Possible Meat Options

If you can’t find cube steak, consider using:

Round steak (pound it thin with a meat mallet)
Sirloin steak (tenderized manually)
Flank steak (pounded very thin)

Tips for Tenderizing Meat

Use a meat mallet to pound the steak to about ¼-inch thickness.
Marinate in buttermilk for an hour to enhance tenderness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Steak

Pat the cube steaks dry with a paper towel.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

Step 2: Create a Perfect Batter

In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
In another dish, whisk together eggs and buttermilk.
Dredge the steak in the flour mixture, then dip into the buttermilk mixture, and finally coat it again in the flour. Press the flour onto the steak for a thick, crispy crust.

Step 3: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (around 350°F).
Fry each steak for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil while keeping the steaks crispy.

Step 4: Make Creamy Country Gravy

In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
Add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes.
Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly until smooth.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the fried steaks and generously spoon the country gravy over the top.
Garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for the Crispiest Chicken Fried Steak

Importance of Double-Dredging

For an extra crispy crust, always double dredge the steak in flour before frying. This ensures the coating sticks well and creates a crunchier texture.

Choosing the Right Oil for Frying

Use vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying, as they have high smoke points and create the best crispiness.

Keeping the Coating Intact

Let the coated steaks rest for 5-10 minutes before frying.
Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain even cooking.
Use a wire rack instead of paper towels for draining excess oil to keep the coating crispy.

7. Serving Suggestions

A plate of crispy chicken fried steak isn’t complete without traditional Southern sides and the perfect beverage pairing. Here are some classic accompaniments:

Traditional Southern Sides

Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – Creamy mashed potatoes with a generous drizzle of country gravy make for the ultimate comfort food pairing.
Buttermilk Biscuits – Soft, fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up extra gravy.
Green Beans – Lightly seasoned green beans offer a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast to the crispy steak.
Coleslaw – A tangy, creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite alongside the rich steak.
Mac and Cheese – Southern-style mac and cheese with a creamy, cheesy sauce is another indulgent choice.

Beverage Pairings

Sweet Tea – The classic Southern drink complements the savory flavors perfectly.
Lemonade – A refreshing, citrusy option that balances the richness of the dish.
Classic Soda – Traditional choices like Coca-Cola or root beer enhance the down-home feel of the meal.

8. Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

How to Prepare in Advance

If you want to save time, you can prepare the components of your chicken fried steak ahead of time:

Tenderize and Season the Steak – Coat the steaks in flour and buttermilk mixture, then let them rest in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before frying.
Prepare the Gravy – Make the country gravy ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a little milk if it thickens too much.

Best Way to Store Leftovers

Store leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the gravy in a separate container to prevent the steak from becoming soggy.

How to Reheat While Keeping the Crunch

Oven Method (Best for Crispiness): Reheat the steak on a wire rack at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.
Air Fryer Method: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Avoid the Microwave: It tends to make the breading soggy.

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can make mistakes when preparing chicken fried steak. Avoid these pitfalls:

Using the Wrong Cut of Meat

Cube steak is the best option because it’s pre-tenderized. If using round steak or sirloin, be sure to pound it thin to achieve the right texture.

Not Seasoning Properly

Season every layer, from the meat to the flour dredge and the gravy. Underseasoning can result in a bland dish.

Frying at the Wrong Temperature

Too hot? The breading burns before the steak cooks through.
Too cold? The steak absorbs oil and becomes greasy.
Ideal Temperature: Maintain the oil at 350°F for the perfect golden crust.

Skipping the Resting Step

Let the breaded steak rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere and prevents it from falling off in the oil.

10. Variations and Customizations

Chicken fried steak is a versatile dish. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Spicy Version

Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture for extra heat.

Gluten-Free or Keto-Friendly Adaptations

Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular flour.
Replace buttermilk with heavy cream mixed with apple cider vinegar for a low-carb option.

Air Fryer or Oven-Baked Alternative

Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Oven-Baked: Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, using a wire rack for even crispiness.

11. FAQ Section

Q: Can I use a different cut of meat?

A: Yes! While cube steak is traditional, round steak or sirloin can work if properly tenderized.

Q: What’s the difference between chicken fried steak and country fried steak?

A: Chicken fried steak has a crispier, thicker breading and is served with creamy gravy, while country fried steak has a lighter coating and is often served with brown gravy.

Q: Can I make this without buttermilk?

A: Yes! Substitute with regular milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to achieve a similar tangy effect.

Q: How do I keep the breading from falling off?

A: Let the coated steak rest for 10 minutes before frying, and avoid flipping it too often.

Q: What’s the best oil for frying?

A: Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best for achieving a crispy, golden crust.

12. Key Takeaways

Classic Southern Dish – A staple comfort food with a crispy coating and creamy gravy.
Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for an easy, satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips Matter – Proper seasoning, oil temperature, and breading techniques make all the difference.
Versatile Recipe – Can be customized with different seasonings, cooking methods, or dietary adaptations.

13. Conclusion

Chicken fried steak is the ultimate Southern comfort food, delivering crispy, golden perfection in every bite. With a rich history and a well-loved place on Southern tables, this dish is a must-try for home cooks. By following the right techniques choosing the right cut of meat, perfecting the breading, and frying at the right temperature you can recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy a homemade classic that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add to your version of chicken fried steak!