Crispy Golden Chicken Fried Steak Recipe That Wows Every Time

Comfort food enthusiasts will absolutely adore this mouthwatering chicken fried steak that brings Southern charm right to your plate.

Crispy golden coating promises delectable moments of pure culinary bliss.

Regional kitchens across Texas have perfected this classic technique over generations.

Tender beef gets embraced by a perfectly seasoned breading that crunches with each delightful bite.

Skilled cooks know the secret lies in balancing texture and flavor with precision.

Homemade gravy completes this irresistible dish that connects you to cherished memories of hearty home cooking.

You won’t be able to resist making this recipe again and again.

Pairing Suggestions for Best Chicken Fried Steak

• Pair Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky smooth potatoes complement the crispy, golden-brown steak perfectly, soaking up the rich, peppery gravy for an ultimate comfort food experience.
• Southern-Style Comfort Sides: Serve alongside buttery green beans or creamy coleslaw to balance the hearty, crispy meat with fresh, tangy vegetable flavors.
• Craft Beer Companion: Choose a robust amber ale or hoppy IPA to cut through the richness of the fried steak and provide a refreshing contrast to the heavy gravy.
• Wine Selection Strategy: Opt for a medium-bodied red like Zinfandel or Syrah, which can stand up to the bold flavors and crispy texture of the chicken fried steak.

Storage Recommendations for Best Chicken Fried Steak

• Wrap leftover chicken fried steak tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Separate the steak from the gravy to maintain its crispy texture.
• Place cooled chicken fried steak in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Store gravy separately in a sealed container.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place steak on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Reheat gravy separately in a saucepan, stirring occasionally.

FAQs for Best Chicken Fried Steak

• What are cube steaks?

Cube steaks are tenderized cuts of beef, typically from the top round or top sirloin, that have been mechanically pounded with a meat tenderizer to create small indentations, making the meat more tender and easier to cook.

• Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

While traditionally made with beef, you can use chicken or pork cutlets as alternative options, adjusting cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.

• Why do I need to double-dredge the steaks?

Double-dredging creates a thicker, crispier coating that helps seal in moisture and provides a more satisfying crunch when you bite into the chicken fried steak.

Why Best Chicken Fried Steak Is a Southern Classic

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Southern-style dish that brings instant warmth and satisfaction with its crispy golden exterior and rich, creamy gravy.
• Master Classic Cooking Technique: Learn a traditional breading method that transforms simple cube steaks into a restaurant-quality meal with professional-level skills.
• Quick Weekend Warrior Meal: Prepare a hearty dinner that comes together quickly, perfect for satisfying hungry families or impressing guests with minimal kitchen effort.
• Customizable Flavor Adventure: Easily adjust spice levels by modifying cayenne pepper amount, making this recipe adaptable for different taste preferences and heat tolerances.

Ingredients for Best Chicken Fried Steak

• Cube Steaks: Tender cuts of beef perfect for creating a classic southern-style dish with crispy coating.

• All-Purpose Flour, Garlic Powder, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper: Seasoned mixture that creates a flavorful and crispy exterior for the steak.
• Eggs, Milk or Buttermilk: Binding agents that help the breading adhere to the meat and create a golden, crunchy crust.

• Vegetable Oil: Provides the medium for frying the steak to achieve a crispy golden-brown exterior.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich base for the gravy and adds depth of flavor.
• Beef Broth: Liquid component that helps create a smooth and flavorful gravy.

How to Make Best Chicken Fried Steak

Step 1: Seasoning the Meat

Generously rub salt and pepper across both sides of the cube steaks, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Creating Flour Coating

• All-purpose flour
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper

Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a flavorful breading mixture.

Step 3: Preparing Egg Wash

In a separate shallow dish, whisk eggs and milk or buttermilk until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Breading the Steaks

Coat each steak by first dredging in seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg mixture, allowing drips to fall away, then return to flour mixture for a second coating. This double-dredging creates an extra crispy exterior.

Step 5: Heating the Skillet

Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet, heating over medium-high temperature until oil shimmers and is ready for frying.

Step 6: Frying the Steaks

Carefully place breaded steaks into hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary to maintain optimal cooking temperature.

Step 7: Draining Excess Oil

Transfer fried steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Keep warm while preparing gravy.

Step 8: Creating Gravy Base

Remove most oil from skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add butter and melt over medium heat.

Step 9: Thickening Gravy

Sprinkle flour over melted butter, whisking constantly. Cook until mixture turns golden and releases a nutty aroma, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 10: Adding Liquid

Slowly pour beef broth into the skillet, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir frequently until gravy reaches desired thickness.

Step 11: Seasoning Gravy

Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed.

Step 12: Serving

Plate hot steaks and generously pour gravy over the top. Serve immediately for the most delicious experience.

Pro Tips for Best Chicken Fried Steak

• Perfectly Crisp the Steak: Pat cube steaks dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness and better flour adherence.
• Prevent Tough Meat: Pound cube steaks gently with a meat mallet to tenderize and break down muscle fibers for a more tender texture.
• Oil Temperature Matters: Maintain oil at 350-375°F for optimal golden-brown crust without absorbing excess grease or burning the coating.
• Gravy Smoothness Technique: Whisk flour and butter continuously to create a smooth roux, preventing lumps and ensuring silky gravy consistency.
• Serve Immediately Strategy: Plate chicken fried steak right after cooking to preserve the crispy breading and serve while the dish is piping hot.

Variation Ideas for Best Chicken Fried Steak

• Healthier Baked Version: Swap frying for oven-baking at 425°F, using a light coating of olive oil spray for crispy texture without excess grease.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend and use cornstarch for extra crispiness, ensuring those with wheat sensitivities can enjoy the dish.
• Spicy Southwest Rendition: Add chipotle powder and smoked paprika to the flour mixture, then top with salsa or green chile sauce for a zesty Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
• Lean Protein Option: Substitute cube steak with turkey or pork cutlets, maintaining the classic breading technique while offering a lighter meat alternative for health-conscious eaters.

Best Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

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4.9 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty Southern comfort shines through this classic chicken fried steak, delivering crispy golden perfection with rich country gravy. Crisp breading and tender beef promise a satisfying meal that connects you directly to traditional home-style cooking.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 4 cube steaks (about 4 ounces/113 grams each)
• 2 large eggs

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Liquid and Fat Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
• 2 cups beef broth
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare cube steaks by generously seasoning both sides with salt and pepper for maximum flavor infusion.
2. Create a seasoned flour mixture in a shallow dish, combining flour, garlic powder, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper for a robust coating.
3. Whisk eggs and milk (or buttermilk) in a separate shallow dish to create a smooth binding liquid for the breading process.
4. Thoroughly coat each cube steak in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Dip the floured meat into the egg mixture, allowing drips to fall, then re-dredge in flour for an extra crispy exterior.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F, creating the perfect frying environment.
6. Carefully place breaded steaks into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until achieving a golden-brown, crispy crust.
7. Remove fried steaks and drain on paper towel-lined plate to eliminate excess oil, keeping them warm during gravy preparation.
8. Retain approximately 2 tablespoons of oil in the skillet, discarding the remainder. Melt butter over medium heat to create a flavorful base for the gravy.
9. Sprinkle flour over melted butter, whisking continuously to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and releases a nutty aroma.
10. Gradually pour beef broth into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a silky-smooth gravy consistency.
11. Simmer the gravy, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
12. Plate the chicken fried steak and generously ladle the hot, freshly prepared gravy over the top, serving immediately for optimal taste and texture.

Notes

• Use room temperature cube steaks to ensure even cooking and prevent uneven browning.
• Double-coat the steaks in flour and egg mixture for an extra crispy, golden-brown crust that stays crunchy longer.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend to maintain the signature crispy texture.
• Control oil temperature around 350°F to prevent greasy meat and achieve perfectly crisp breading without burning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 470 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg