Who doesn’t love a dish that brings comfort, history, and a big ol’ serving of flavor? Chicken fried steak is exactly that. A crunchy, golden-fried piece of tender beef smothered in creamy gravy—what’s not to love? It’s a meal that’s made its way from humble beginnings to full-on comfort food royalty. This article will take you through every tasty detail, from its roots to how to make it yourself.
Ready to dive into the crispy world of chicken fried steak? Let’s start where every good story begins—at the beginning.
Introduction
Chicken Fried Steak is more than just a meal—it’s a memory on a plate. For many folks across the southern United States, this dish represents Sunday dinners, roadside diners, and home-cooked love. It’s that crispy, tender, gravy-smothered classic that hits just right.
Even though the name might confuse some (nope, there’s no chicken involved), this dish has earned its place in the American culinary scene. It’s made by breading and frying a steak—usually a budget-friendly, tenderized cut—just like you would with fried chicken. Then, it gets bathed in a rich and creamy gravy that soaks into every crunchy bite.
So, what makes chicken fried steak such a beloved icon? Is it the history? The flavor? The down-home roots? Well, it’s all of the above. But don’t worry, we’re unpacking everything you need to know, from where it came from to how to cook it like a pro.
Stick with us and get ready to explore the full story of this crispy, crave-worthy classic.
History and Origins
Chicken fried steak isn’t just a dish; it’s a piece of history. Its story goes way back to the Old World, with roots in European cuisine. Let’s take a step back and discover where it all began.
European Roots
Before this dish became a Southern favorite, it started with European immigrants. In particular, the German and Austrian settlers brought with them a dish called Wiener Schnitzel. This dish was made by breading and frying a tender piece of meat, usually veal.
These immigrants were looking for ways to cook affordable cuts of meat. So, they used a similar method of breading and frying that they knew from home, but with ingredients they could find in America. As a result, the chicken fried steak was born. While it may look similar to Wiener Schnitzel, chicken fried steak uses beef rather than veal.
American Adaptation
Once in America, especially in places like Texas and Oklahoma, chicken fried steak took on a life of its own. It became a staple of Southern cuisine, beloved for its crispy coating and comforting gravy.
Over time, this dish evolved from a way to make tough cuts of meat tender into a hearty and filling meal that became a symbol of Southern hospitality. Whether served in small diners or at family tables, chicken fried steak became a classic comfort food enjoyed by people all across the U.S.
Now, it’s not just a Southern tradition. Chicken fried steak has spread nationwide, appearing on menus in all kinds of restaurants. Despite its humble beginnings, this dish has become a symbol of comfort and tradition.
What is Chicken Fried Steak?
So, what exactly is chicken fried steak? It’s a hearty, crispy dish made by breading and frying a piece of beef steak. You might think the name sounds a little strange, especially since there’s no chicken involved. But trust us, it’s all in the way it’s cooked.
Chicken Fried Steak vs. Country Fried Steak
You might have heard of something called country fried steak. While it sounds similar, there are a few key differences. Both dishes involve breading and frying beef, but the main difference lies in the gravy.
Chicken fried steak is usually topped with a creamy white gravy. This gravy is made with milk and flour, giving it a rich, smooth texture. On the other hand, country fried steak often uses a brown gravy, which has a more savory and less creamy flavor. The difference in gravy is the biggest clue to tell them apart.
While both are delicious, chicken fried steak is known for its crispy, golden crust and that classic creamy gravy. It’s a true comfort food.
Ingredients and Preparation
Making chicken fried steak is pretty straightforward, but there are some key ingredients and steps to keep in mind. Let’s break it down so you can get the perfect crispy steak every time.
Choosing the Right Cut
The best cuts of meat for chicken fried steak are usually tough, affordable pieces. Cube steak is a popular choice. It’s tenderized, which makes it perfect for frying. Some people also use round steak or sirloin, but cube steak is the classic option.
If you can’t find cube steak, don’t worry. You can use other cuts, but you might need to tenderize them yourself. A meat mallet is a handy tool for this, or you can ask your butcher to tenderize the meat for you.
Tenderizing the Meat
Tenderizing is crucial for this dish. Tough cuts of beef need to be broken down so they cook up nice and tender. If your steak isn’t already tenderized, take a meat mallet and gently pound it. Aim for an even thickness so it cooks properly.
Tenderizing also helps the breading stick to the steak. This step is simple, but it makes a big difference in how your chicken fried steak turns out.
Breading Process
Now comes the fun part—the breading. The key to that crispy outer layer is a well-seasoned breading. Here’s how you do it:
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Dredge the steak in flour. This helps the egg stick.
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Dip in beaten egg. Make sure it’s fully coated.
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Coat in seasoned breadcrumbs. You can use regular breadcrumbs, but for extra crunch, try panko breadcrumbs.
Make sure the breading sticks well to the steak. Press it down a bit to make sure it stays in place during frying.
Frying Techniques
The frying part is where the magic happens. You want to get that golden, crispy crust without overcooking the meat inside.
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Choose the right oil. A good frying oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or canola oil, works best.
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Heat the oil. You want the oil to be hot, around 350°F (175°C). Test it with a small piece of bread. If it sizzles and browns quickly, you’re good to go.
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Fry the steaks. Cook each steak for about 3-4 minutes per side. The goal is to get a golden, crispy crust. Don’t crowd the pan—give each steak room to cook evenly.
Once fried, place the steaks on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. The result? A perfectly crispy and juicy chicken fried steak.
Serving and Accompaniments
Chicken fried steak isn’t complete without some tasty sides. Let’s talk about the traditional dishes that go hand in hand with this classic comfort food.
Traditional Sides
A chicken fried steak meal just wouldn’t be the same without the right sides. Here are a few that pair perfectly with this crispy dish:
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Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture of mashed potatoes is a must-have. They soak up the gravy and balance out the crunch of the steak.
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Green Beans – A side of green beans adds a fresh, savory element. Their slight crispness contrasts with the softness of the potatoes.
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Buttermilk Biscuits – Soft, flaky biscuits are another Southern favorite. You can use them to scoop up the extra gravy and make the meal even more comforting.
These sides add depth and flavor to the meal, making it feel complete. But feel free to add your favorite sides. The goal is to create a satisfying plate that covers all the bases.
Gravy Varieties
When it comes to gravy, there’s one clear winner for chicken fried steak: creamy white gravy. It’s rich, smooth, and the perfect match for the crispy steak.
However, some people prefer a twist on the classic. Here are a few gravy options to consider:
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Classic White Cream Gravy – Made with milk, flour, and the pan drippings, this is the traditional choice. It’s creamy, smooth, and adds that signature Southern comfort.
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Brown Gravy – For those who prefer a heartier taste, brown gravy is a great alternative. It’s made with beef broth and has a richer flavor. It’s not as creamy, but it’s still delicious.
No matter what gravy you choose, it’s important to pour it generously over the steak and sides. That’s where the magic happens, turning each bite into a flavorful experience.
Nutritional Information
Chicken fried steak is a comfort food, but how does it stack up in terms of nutrition? Let’s take a closer look at the calories and macronutrients and some things to keep in mind if you’re watching your diet.
Caloric Content
Chicken fried steak is a hearty dish, and it’s not exactly light on calories. A typical serving can have anywhere between 500 to 800 calories, depending on the size of the steak and the amount of gravy.
While it’s not a low-calorie meal, it’s one that can be enjoyed in moderation, especially when balanced with lighter sides like vegetables or a salad.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Here’s a basic breakdown of the macronutrients in chicken fried steak:
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Protein – Since the main ingredient is beef, this dish provides a good amount of protein, which is great for muscle repair and growth.
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Carbs – The breading and sides (like mashed potatoes and biscuits) add carbohydrates. These give you energy, but they can also increase the calorie count.
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Fats – The frying process adds a significant amount of fat to the dish. It’s mostly saturated fat due to the oil used in frying. While fats are important for your body, it’s best to consume them in moderation.
Considerations for Dietary Restrictions
Chicken fried steak isn’t the best choice for everyone, especially if you’re following a specific diet. Here are some things to keep in mind:
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Gluten-Free: If you’re gluten-sensitive or have celiac disease, you can still enjoy chicken fried steak by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
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Low-Carb: If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, this dish may not fit your needs. But you could make a few swaps, like using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
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Lower Fat: To cut back on fat, you could bake the steak instead of frying it. But remember, it won’t be quite the same without that crispy coating!
In short, while chicken fried steak is tasty, it’s best to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Regional Variations
Chicken fried steak may be a Southern classic, but it has many regional variations. Depending on where you are, the dish can look a bit different. Let’s explore how it changes across different regions.
Texan Style
In Texas, chicken fried steak is taken very seriously. The steak is usually served with a big portion of creamy white gravy and a side of mashed potatoes or crispy fries. Texas-style chicken fried steak tends to have a thicker, crunchier breading, giving it a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Some Texans also love adding a bit of hot sauce or jalapeños on top for an extra kick. It’s all about making the dish rich and full of flavor, with the perfect balance of creamy gravy and crispy steak.
Other Southern States
In other parts of the South, chicken fried steak may come with slight variations. For example, in Oklahoma, the bread might be a bit lighter, and the steak could be served with brown gravy instead of white gravy. Some people in the South even prefer to serve their chicken fried steak with gravy on the side so they can dip each bite.
In some regions, you might find additional seasonings in the breading, like paprika or garlic powder, to give the dish a unique twist.
No matter where you are, chicken fried steak is a dish that brings people together. Whether it’s the Texas style or a regional spin, it’s all about enjoying the crispy, savory goodness.
Cooking Tips and Common Mistakes
Cooking chicken fried steak can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right. Let’s look at how to avoid common mistakes and make the perfect crispy steak.
Achieving the Perfect Crust
The secret to a great chicken fried steak is the crispy crust. To get it right, you need to make sure the breading sticks well to the meat. Here’s how:
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Press the bread down. After dipping the steak in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, gently press the breading to make sure it sticks.
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Don’t skip the flour. Make sure the steak is well coated with flour before dipping it in the egg. This helps the bread stay on while frying.
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Use panko breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, go with panko breadcrumbs. They give the steak a light, crispy texture.
Avoiding Overcooking
It’s easy to overcook the steak and end up with a dry piece of meat. To avoid this:
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Fry on medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot, but not smoking. Fry the steak for 3-4 minutes per side until it’s golden brown and crispy.
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Don’t overcook the meat. The steak should be tender and juicy inside. Overcooking it can make it tough and dry.
Preventing Bread from Falling Off
One common mistake is the bread falling off during frying. Here’s how to prevent it:
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Make sure the oil is hot enough. If the oil is too cool, the breading won’t crisp up and will slide off. Check the temperature with a small piece of bread. If it browns quickly, the oil is ready.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry one or two steaks at a time. If you overcrowd the pan, the temperature drops, and the breading can fall off.
By following these tips, you’ll avoid the most common mistakes and end up with a chicken fried steak that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
FAQs
Chicken fried steak may be a popular dish, but many people have questions about it. Let’s go through some common questions and clear up any confusion.
What is the origin of Chicken Fried Steak?
Chicken fried steak has roots in Europe, brought over by German and Austrian immigrants. They adapted their traditional Wiener Schnitzel (a breaded, fried veal dish) to local ingredients. Over time, it became a Southern favorite in the U.S., particularly in Texas and Oklahoma.
Can Chicken Fried Steak be baked instead of fried?
While frying is traditional, you can bake the steak to make it a bit healthier. To do this, coat the steak with breading and bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes. This gives you a crispy coating without all the extra oil.
What are the best cuts of meat for Chicken Fried Steak?
The best cuts are typically tougher, affordable steaks like cube steak, round steak, or sirloin. Cube steak is the most common because it’s already tenderized, making it perfect for frying. You can also use other cuts, but you may need to tenderize them yourself.
How do you make gluten-free Chicken Fried Steak?
To make gluten-free chicken fried steak, simply swap out regular flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. You can use almond flour, cornstarch, or gluten-free all-purpose flour for the breading. Make sure your gravy is also gluten-free by using a thickener like cornstarch.
Is Chicken Fried Steak made with chicken?
Despite the name, chicken fried steak is made with beef, not chicken. The “chicken” part refers to the method of cooking—breading and frying the steak, much like you would fry chicken. It’s a common misunderstanding, but the dish is beef-based.
These FAQs should clear up any confusion about chicken fried steak. It’s a delicious, crispy dish with a rich history that’s well worth trying!
Conclusion
Chicken fried steak is a true Southern classic. Its crispy, tender texture and creamy gravy make it a dish loved by many. Whether you enjoy it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits, it’s a meal that brings comfort and flavor to the table.
This dish has a rich history, starting from European roots and evolving into a beloved part of Southern cuisine. Though it may take a bit of time and effort to make, the result is always worth it. The crispy crust, tender steak, and smooth gravy come together to create the perfect comfort food.
Now that you know the story and the best tips for making it, why not try it out yourself? Chicken fried steak is a dish that anyone can enjoy, and once you get the hang of it, you can add your twist. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Chicken Fried Steak: A Southern Classic with a Crispy Crunch
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Chicken fried steak is a Southern classic that combines crispy, golden-breaded steak with creamy, rich gravy. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
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4 pieces cube steak (or round steak or sirloin)
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1 cup all-purpose flour (for breading)
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2 eggs, beaten
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
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1 cup milk
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy)
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1 cup chicken broth
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1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
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Tenderize the cube steaks (or other cuts) by using a meat mallet if they aren’t already tenderized.
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In a shallow bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Dip each steak in the flour mixture, then in the beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press down gently to ensure the breading sticks.
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the steaks for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove the steaks and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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For the gravy: In the same skillet, add flour to the remaining oil and drippings. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes.
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Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let the gravy simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
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Stir in the heavy cream for a rich, smooth gravy.
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Serve the crispy chicken fried steak with the gravy poured generously over the top.
Notes
For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded steak at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
Try adding a bit of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the gravy for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Southern Comfort Food
- Method: Frying, Gravy-making
- Cuisine: American, Southern