Chicken Fried Steak Recipe: 7 Steps to Crispy Perfection

Growing up in Texas, chicken fried steak was more than a meal. It was a cherished memory. The sizzle of the skillet, the golden crispy coating, and that rich country gravy brought me back to my grandmother’s kitchen every time. Today, I’m sharing the ultimate chicken fried steak recipe that captures that same soul-warming comfort.

If you’ve ever craved a Southern classic that combines crispy texture with tender meat, this chicken fried steak recipe is for you. It will become your new go-to comfort food. We’ll walk through seven precise steps to transform an ordinary piece of steak into a crispy, mouth-watering masterpiece that’ll have your family begging for seconds.

Chicken fried steak is more than just a dish—it’s a culinary tradition deeply rooted in Southern cooking. Each bite promises a perfect balance of crunchy exterior and succulent meat. It’s a beloved recipe in kitchens across America. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these seven steps will guide you to chicken fried steak perfection.

Ready to embark on a delicious cooking adventure? Let’s dive into the secrets of creating the most irresistible chicken fried steak you’ve ever tasted.

Understanding Chicken Fried Steak: A Southern Classic

Country fried steak is a beloved dish in Southern American cuisine. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a story of resourcefulness and comfort. It shows how cultures adapt and grow together.

The story of country fried steak begins with German and Austrian immigrants. They brought their schnitzel-making skills to Texas and the Southern states in the mid-19th century. They used local ingredients to create a dish that’s uniquely American.

Regional Culinary Roots

Across the Southern United States, country fried steak has its own twist. Each region adds its own special touch:

• Texas: Larger cuts with robust seasoning
• Oklahoma: Thinner, crispy coating
• Louisiana: Often served with spicier gravy

Chicken Fried vs. Country Fried Steak

Many think chicken fried and country fried steak are the same. But they’re not. The main difference is in the gravy and how the steak is prepared:

Characteristic	Chicken Fried Steak	Country Fried Steak
Gravy Type	White Cream Gravy	Brown Onion Gravy
Coating Style	Crisp, uniform breading	Slightly more rustic coating

The Curious Name

Why is it called “chicken fried” when it’s not chicken? It’s because of how it’s cooked. The meat is coated in seasoned flour and fried until golden.

“A true Southern dish is more than food; it’s a piece of cultural history on a plate.” – Southern Cooking Tradition

Country fried steak shows the creativity of Southern cooking. It turns simple ingredients into a dish that warms the heart and soul.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Crispy Coating

Learning how to make fried chicken steak starts with the coating. It’s the key to a crispy exterior that everyone loves. The right mix of ingredients can turn simple meat into a dish that’s a hit with everyone.

Your flour mixture is the base for a great chicken fried steak. Begin with all-purpose flour. But don’t stop there. The magic comes from adding the right seasonings.

• All-purpose flour (2 cups)
• Garlic powder (1 tablespoon)
• Onion powder (1 tablespoon)
• Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (2 teaspoons)

Adjust the spice to your liking. Want more heat? Add more cayenne or hot sauce to the buttermilk. The trick is to balance flavors and keep that crunch.

Professional chefs say the secret is in the seasoning. Each ingredient adds to the flavor and that golden-brown crust. This makes chicken fried steak a Southern favorite.

Selecting and Preparing the Right Cut of Meat

Choosing the right meat is key to a classic Southern comfort food taste in chicken fried steak. Many wonder what meat is used for chicken fried steak? The answer is a perfect cut that makes the dish tender and delicious.

Understanding meat selection can make your chicken fried steak amazing. Let’s explore how to pick the best cut and prepare it for cooking.

Best Cuts for Chicken Fried Steak

The top choice for chicken fried steak is cube steak. It’s great for several reasons:

• Pre-tenderized by mechanical processing
• Thin and uniform thickness
• Typically made from top round or bottom round beef
• Budget-friendly option

Proper Tenderizing Techniques

If you can’t find pre-tenderized cube steak, you can make your own. Here’s how to tenderize it:

1. Use a meat mallet to pound the steak
2. Apply even pressure across the entire cut
3. Aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch
4. Cover the meat with plastic wrap while tenderizing

Seasoning the Meat

Seasoning is crucial for deep flavor. Sprinkle salt and black pepper on the cut before dredging. Some add garlic powder or paprika for more flavor. The goal is to season well but not hide the beef’s natural taste.

Pro tip: Let the seasoned meat rest for 10-15 minutes before coating to allow the flavors to penetrate.

The Ultimate Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

Making the perfect chicken fried steak needs care and love. This Southern classic turns simple beef into a crispy, tasty dish. It’s sure to wow your family.

To begin your chicken fried steak journey, gather these essential ingredients:

• 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 pound each)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Seasonings: salt, black pepper, garlic powder
• Vegetable oil for frying

Getting the crust right is key. Start by pounding your steaks thin with a meat mallet. This makes them tender and easy to chew.

Coating Technique

The secret to a fantastic chicken fried steak is the double-dredging method. Set up three stations:

1. First station: Seasoned flour mixture
2. Second station: Egg and buttermilk wash
3. Third station: Final flour coating

Pro tip: Let each coating rest for a few minutes to help the breading stick better during frying.

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
All-purpose flour	2 cups	Primary coating
Buttermilk	1 cup	Moisture and tenderizer
Eggs	2 large	Binding agent

“The key to a great chicken fried steak is patience and proper technique.” – Southern Cooking Expert

Heat your oil to 350°F. Fry each steak for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve with creamy country gravy for a true Southern taste.

Mastering the Double-Dredging Technique

Learning to make fried chicken steak means mastering the double-dredging technique. This method turns simple meat into a crispy, golden delight. It’s sure to wow your dinner guests.

The secret to a crispy coating is a three-step process. Each step is vital for that perfect crunch in fried chicken steak.

First Flour Coating: Building the Foundation

Your journey starts with a good flour coating. Here’s what you need to do:

• Use a shallow dish with all-purpose flour
• Season the flour with salt and pepper
• Coat the steak completely, shaking off excess flour
• Ensure an even, light layer of flour covers the entire surface

Buttermilk Bath: Creating Adhesion

The buttermilk bath helps the breading stick. Dip each floured steak into a bowl of buttermilk, letting any extra drip off. This wet layer makes the final flour coating stick well.

Final Flour Dredge: Sealing the Crispy Coating

To get the ultimate chicken fried steak, put the buttermilk-coated steak back in the seasoned flour. Press gently to get a thick, even coating. This will crisp up beautifully when fried.

Pro tip: Work with one steak at a time to maintain consistent coating thickness.

By following these steps, you’ll make a fried chicken steak with a crispy exterior. It will keep all the delicious flavor inside.

Perfect Pan-Frying Methods and Temperature Control

Mastering pan-frying is key to a perfect chicken fried steak. The right method turns a simple cut into a crispy, golden dish. It’s so good, everyone will want more.

Temperature control is crucial. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. An instant-read thermometer is helpful, but experienced cooks can judge by the oil’s behavior.

• Choose a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution
• Use about 1 inch of oil for optimal frying
• Maintain medium-high heat throughout cooking

Frying chicken fried steak takes patience. Cook in small batches, about 4-5 minutes per side. This ensures a beautiful, crispy exterior and keeps the meat juicy.

Safety is important with hot oil. Use long-handled tongs to handle the steak. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it can make the meat soggy and greasy.

Pro tip: Let your fried steaks rest on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain that perfect crispiness.

With these techniques, you’ll make a chicken fried steak that’s crispy outside, tender inside, and incredibly tasty.

Creating Rich and Creamy Country Gravy

No country fried steak is complete without a delicious, creamy gravy. This gravy makes the whole dish better. The secret to a great gravy is knowing a few key steps.

Making the Perfect Roux

Your roux is the base of a rich gravy. Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Then, slowly add flour, whisking until it’s smooth.

The roux should turn light golden. This step removes the raw flour taste.

• Use equal parts butter and flour
• Stir constantly to prevent burning
• Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant

Achieving Creamy Consistency

The texture of country fried steak gravy is key. Slowly add warm milk and beef broth, whisking all the time. You want a smooth, velvety sauce.

1. Add liquids gradually
2. Whisk vigorously
3. Simmer until thickened

This will give you about 2½ to 3 cups of tasty gravy. It’s perfect for covering your crispy country fried steak. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Enjoy your ultimate comfort food.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

Creating the perfect chicken fried steak recipe is more than just the main dish. The right side dishes can make your meal unforgettable. Southern cuisine offers many delicious sides that go well with chicken fried steak.

When planning your chicken fried steak recipe, think about these classic Southern sides. They add flavor and comfort to your meal:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The ultimate classic companion that soaks up delicious gravy
• Buttery Green Beans with Bacon
• Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits
• Crispy Fried Okra
• Creamed Corn

Your side dish choice can turn a simple chicken fried steak into a full, satisfying meal. Some pairings work great to balance the meat’s richness.

Side Dish	Flavor Profile	Recommended Pairing
Mashed Potatoes	Creamy, Smooth	Perfect with Country Gravy
Green Beans	Crisp, Savory	Adds Freshness to Meal
Buttermilk Biscuits	Soft, Buttery	Great for Soaking Gravy

Don’t be afraid to mix traditional sides with unexpected choices. Your chicken fried steak recipe can shine with creative accompaniments. They bring excitement to the dinner table.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Learning how to make fried chicken steak means knowing how to store it properly. This keeps the flavor and crispiness intact. Leftover chicken fried steak can still be a tasty meal if stored correctly.

Proper storage prevents food waste and lets you enjoy your favorite Southern dish later. It’s important to keep the steak and gravy separate. This helps keep the crispy coating.

Refrigeration Guidelines

• Store chicken fried steak in an airtight container
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Keep leftovers for up to 4 days
• Separate the gravy into a different container

Reheating Methods

Reheating Method	Time	Texture Result
Air Fryer	3-4 minutes	Crispy
Oven	10-15 minutes	Crisp
Microwave	2-3 minutes	Soft

For reheating fried chicken steak, the air fryer or oven is best. They keep the exterior crispy. Microwaving can make the breading soggy, so it’s not recommended.

Pro tip: Always reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety when enjoying your leftover chicken fried steak.

Conclusion

Making the perfect chicken fried steak is an art, deeply rooted in Southern cooking. By following this guide, you’ll turn a simple cut of meat into a crispy, golden masterpiece. It’s a true American comfort food.

Your journey to making chicken fried steak starts with choosing quality meat. Then, you master the double-dredging technique for that crunchy exterior. Each step is crucial, from tenderizing the meat to making the rich, creamy gravy that goes with it. Remember, patience and practice are key.

Don’t worry if it seems hard at first. With this recipe, you’ll soon be making restaurant-quality chicken-fried steak at home. Share it with friends and family. Watch as they enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite.

Ready to improve your cooking? Grab your skillet and follow these steps. Dive into the delicious world of Southern cooking. Your perfect chicken fried steak is waiting for you!

FAQ

What exactly is chicken fried steak?

Chicken fried steak is a Southern comfort food. It’s a beef steak coated in seasoned flour and fried until golden. It’s called “chicken fried” because it’s cooked like fried chicken, but it doesn’t have chicken.

What type of meat is best for chicken fried steak?

Cube steak is the best choice for chicken fried steak. It’s tenderized beef that’s easy to chew. If you can’t find cube steak, try eye of round or sirloin tip.

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

The main difference is the gravy. Chicken fried steak has creamy pepper gravy. Country fried steak has brown gravy. Both are fried and coated the same way.

How do I keep the breading from falling off while frying?

Use the double-dredging method. Coat the meat in flour, then buttermilk, and flour again. Shake off excess flour and let it rest before frying. This helps the breading stick.

What oil is best for frying chicken fried steak?

Peanut oil or vegetable oil are great for frying. They can handle high temperatures without burning. Canola oil is also good for its neutral taste.

How can I make my chicken fried steak extra crispy?

For a crispy coating, heat your oil right and use a mix of flours. Don’t fry too much at once. Dry the meat and let it rest before frying. This helps the coating stick.

Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead. Cook the steaks, cool them, and store them in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F to keep it crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy breading.

What are the best side dishes to serve with chicken fried steak?

Serve it with Southern classics like mashed potatoes, green beans, and buttermilk biscuits. Coleslaw and corn are also great. These sides make the meal hearty and comforting.