Many people seek out comforting, satisfying meals that hit the spot, and one dish that consistently delivers is chicken fried steak. This beloved Southern classic has a crispy, golden-breaded exterior giving way to tender, juicy steak within. Its enduring popularity stems from its universal appeal, making it a favorite among both traditionalists and those looking for creative twists on the original.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the most effective chicken fried steak recipes, covering everything from tried-and-true methods to innovative takes that will keep you coming back for more.
Chicken Fried Steak

Understanding the quintessential elements of Southern cuisine, the Chicken Fried Steak recipe stands out as a prime example of comforting food at its finest. At its core, it consists of tender cube steak smothered in a rich and thick batter, expertly fried until golden brown perfection is achieved. Paired with a decadent cream gravy, this dish strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and satisfaction.
To make the most out of this recipe, helpful tips are provided, including recommendations for using either cube steak or tenderized round steak to achieve optimal results. Ultimately, this Chicken Fried Steak recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Southern charm.
Cowboy Classic Chicken Fried Steak

Here, you’ll find the essence of Southern comfort food embodied in Cowboy Classic Chicken Fried Steak. This beloved dish masterfully combines the satisfying crunch of a perfectly cooked crust with the unbridled juiciness of a tender steak. To achieve this delightful harmony, the recipe relies on buttermilk for marination and a custom blend of flour, baking powder, and cornstarch to provide an extra crunchy coating.
The steaks are then submerged in hot oil until they reach a golden brown perfection, yielding a gratifying texture that simply invites you to take another bite. Serve warm with rich, savory gravy, and you’ll be savoring the true meaning of comfort food.
Grain-Free Chicken Fried Steak

Zest up your meals with a delicious twist on a classic southern dish, Grain-Free Chicken Fried Steak. This recipe replaces traditional grains with a mixture of almond flour, coconut flour, and spices to create a crispy coating around the steak. Whether using cube steak or round steak, this grain-free alternative retains all the flavor of its original counterpart.
Keto Chicken Fried Steak

Yearning for a delicious and satisfying low-carb version of the classic Southern comfort food? Look no further than Keto Chicken Fried Steak! This mouth-watering dish features a crispy fried steak coated with a flavorful mixture of parmesan cheese, pork rinds, and spices, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The black pepper gravy adds an extra layer of depth to this keto-friendly dish, making it a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier twist on a beloved favorite.
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak

Zestfully updating a classic comfort food recipe, Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak offers a healthier alternative to traditional cooking methods. By substituting the deep fryer with an air fryer, you can achieve a crispy exterior without compromising on flavor or nutrition. The dish consists of cubed steak coated in a savory breading that is then cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
Paired with a rich and creamy country-style gravy, this recipe brings back nostalgic memories of childhood meals and provides a delicious option for a comforting dinner.
Chicken Fried Steak and Gravy

Just like many other classic comfort foods, Chicken Fried Steak and Gravy has its roots deeply ingrained in Southern culture. The dish typically consists of a sirloin cube steak that’s been breaded with panko breadcrumbs for an added crunch, before being fried until crispy and golden brown. When it comes to the cooking time, the steak cooks relatively quickly, taking around 3-4 minutes per side to achieve the perfect level of doneness.
Meanwhile, the rich and creamy pan gravy is made by scraping the browned bits from frying the steak and whisking in flour and seasonings for added depth of flavor. This harmonious balance of flavors and textures makes Chicken Fried Steak and Gravy a truly satisfying dish that embodies the spirit of Southern cuisine.
Chicken Fried Steak with Jalapeno Bacon Gravy

Taking the classic southern dish to new heights, Chicken Fried Steak with Jalapeno Bacon Gravy elevates the humble cubed steak to an entirely different level of flavor and sophistication. Tenderized to perfection, the cubed steak is then coated in a rich, aromatic flour mixture that adds depth and complexity to each bite. When fried until crispy, the texture is sublime, setting the stage for the true pièce de résistance: the jalapeno bacon gravy.
This bold and spicy condiment brings a much-needed salty kick to the dish, balancing out the richness of the fried steak in a beautiful harmony of flavors. With this recipe, you’ll experience a delicious twist on a traditional favorite that’s sure to become a new staple in your culinary repertoire.
Skinny Chicken Fried Steak

Zeroing in on a healthier alternative to the classic southern dish, Skinny Chicken Fried Steak offers a guilt-free option without sacrificing taste. The lean cube steak is coated in a flour mixture infused with Montreal steak seasoning, then pan-fried in olive oil, creating a satisfying crunch and flavor combination. Meanwhile, the country gravy takes a lighter approach by using 1% milk, resulting in a creamy sauce that complements the dish without adding excess calories.
Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

Known to satisfy even the most discerning palates, Chicken Fried Steak Fingers are a mouth-watering twist on the classic fried chicken. The steak is marinated in buttermilk and an assortment of seasonings, allowing it to absorb the flavors before being double coated in a light and crispy batter. This labor-intensive process ensures that each bite yields a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness.
When served with a rich gravy or a sweet tomato jam, these finger-licking steak fingers offer a truly enjoyable culinary experience.
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak and Gravy

Hailing from the world of comfort food, Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak and Gravy is a delectable and innovative twist on a classic dish. This recipe employs cube steaks coated in a rich seasoning mix, allowing for a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. The air fryer’s cooking capabilities result in a perfectly cooked steak, boasting a crunchy texture and tender interior. To add an extra layer of flavor, the accompanying gravy provides a rich and savory finishing touch.
Ultimately, this recipe presents a satisfying and guilt-free alternative to traditional fried chicken steak.
Texas Roadhouse Chicken Fried Steak

Famously known for their mouth-watering chicken fried steak, the Texas Roadhouse version has become a staple in many households. This delectable dish features tender boneless sirloin steak that’s coated in a crunchy flour mixture and then fried to perfection. The result is a crispy exterior giving way to a juicy and flavorful interior, making it a true delight for the taste buds.
To take it to the next level, a rich and creamy homemade gravy is served alongside, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of the steak. This copycat recipe has won over both kids and adults alike, with many swearing that it’s even better than the original Texas Roadhouse dish.
Easy Keto Low Carb Chicken Fried Steak

Taking the classic dish to new heights, the Easy Keto Low Carb Chicken Fried Steak recipe is a mouth-watering and keto-friendly version of the beloved favorite. Made with tenderized cube steaks that are meticulously coated in a blend of almond flour and grated parmesan cheese, this delectable recipe provides a crispy and savory coating without relying on pork rinds.
The dish is typically served with a rich and creamy white country gravy that can be elevated with sausage for an added depth of flavor. This chicken fried steak recipe is specifically designed to cater to those following a low carb or keto diet, making it a satisfying and guilt-free option for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious meal without compromising their dietary goals.
Country Fried Steak with Cream Gravy

Discovering the perfect comfort food can be a lifelong journey, and Country Fried Steak with Cream Gravy is certainly a culinary gem that deserves to be on everyone’s radar. This mouth-watering dish boasts crispy, tender cube steaks smothered in a rich buttermilk marinade and topped with a creamy milk gravy that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Not only does this recipe offer a budget-friendly option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, but it also provides valuable tips on how to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy

Many people are familiar with the classic southern comfort food dish known as Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy. This popular dish has been a staple of many households for generations and remains a favorite among both young and old alike. The cube steak, which is typically made from thinly sliced pieces of beef, is first coated in a seasoned flour mixture that adds depth and flavor to the meat.
Once the steak is fully coated, it’s then fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
Classic Chicken Fried Steak Fingers

Zeroing in on a mouthwatering classic, Chicken Fried Steak Fingers prove that simple recipes can be truly satisfying. The combination of crispy breading and tender, well-seasoned steak creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, making it a staple of southern cuisine. This versatile recipe is just as likely to shine as the main course at a family dinner or as an appetizer at a casual gathering.
Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or want to impress your friends with a new twist on a classic, Chicken Fried Steak Fingers are sure to hit the spot.
Air Fryer Chicken-Fried Steak

Yesterday, chefs around the world were reimagining classic dishes with a healthier spin, and one of them is the Air Fryer Chicken-Fried Steak. This innovative take on the traditional favorite involves air frying the steak to achieve that same crispy texture without deep-frying it. The result is a dish served with a rich homemade gravy that not only tastes amazing but also caters to those seeking a lighter option.
Air Fryer Frozen Country Fried Steak

Experience the convenience of cooking a childhood favorite in no time with our Air Fryer Frozen Country Fried Steak recipe. This quick and easy recipe results in a crispy exterior and golden-brown finish, much like traditional chicken fried steak made with cubed steak, breaded, and fried. The frozen patties are cooked to perfection in the air fryer, bringing back memories of home-cooked meals.
For an optimal texture, it is essential to cook two patties at a time, allowing for even cooking and crispy results. This recipe pairs well with comforting sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, air-fried corn on the cob, and rich white pepper gravy. Overall, the Air Fryer Frozen Country Fried Steak is an indulgent dinner option that’s sure to satisfy any craving.
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

Leveraging the power of air frying technology, Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy presents a lighter take on the rich Southern classic. By utilizing an air fryer, the dish achieves a satisfying crunch while minimizing oil intake. The cubed steaks undergo a triple-coating process – first in a seasoned flour mixture, then a buttermilk bath, and finally a crunchy breadcrumb coating before being air fried to perfection.
The outcome is a juicy steak with a delicate balance of flavors and textures, boasting a crispy exterior. Paired with the gravy, which is made by combining rich butter, sautéed onions, garlic powder, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce, this recipe offers an improved nutritional profile without sacrificing taste or authenticity.
Chicken Fried Steak Bites

Keenly flavored with the perfect blend of spices, Chicken Fried Steak Bites are an irresistible treat for anyone who adores chicken fried steak. The combination of crunchy exterior and tender interior makes them a delight to eat. They are ideal as a finger food or appetizer, suitable for any occasion whether it’s a casual game day gathering or a family reunion.
Grandma’s Country Fried Steak with Gravy

Surprisingly, Grandma’s Country Fried Steak with Gravy remains one of the most beloved Southern dishes due to its simplicity and flavor. The key lies in the preparation method, where cube steaks are dredged in a mixture of flour, seasonings, and eggs before being pan-fried until golden brown and crispy. The addition of pepper gravy elevates the dish to new heights, infusing it with an undeniable richness and savory depth.
This recipe is ideally suited for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a hearty breakfast option, making it a staple in many households.
Baked Chicken Fried Steak

Delightful twists on classic dishes are always a pleasure to explore, and one such variation is the Baked Chicken Fried Steak. This healthier take on the original dish begins with tenderizing the cube steak, followed by coating it in a mixture of flour, salt, and seasoned bread crumbs. The coated steak is then baked in the oven until the breading reaches a golden brown perfection.
Southern Country Fried Steak

Looking beyond the familiar confines of traditional comfort foods, Southern Country Fried Steak presents itself as a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that transport diners directly to the heart of America’s culinary South. This beloved recipe showcases cubed round steak, seasoned to perfection before being coated in a delicate crust that yields to a golden-brown finish when fried.
The dish is not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to indulge in a hearty and flavorful meal that embodies the rich heritage of Southern cuisine. Moreover, the recipe includes comprehensive instructions for creating a homemade pan gravy to complement the steak, adding another layer of depth to this already impressive culinary creation.
Chicken Fried Chicken

Versatility defines the essence of Chicken Fried Chicken, a quintessential Texas classic that effortlessly marries flavor and comfort in perfect harmony. This beloved dish features tenderized boneless, skinless chicken breast, expertly pan-fried to an irresistible golden crispiness. A generous serving of creamy country gravy is lavishly poured over the top, accompanied by a satisfying side of fluffy mashed potatoes.
The judicious use of a double-dose of a savory Southern spice blend significantly elevates the flavor profile of the dish, resulting in an unparalleled taste experience. Ultimately, Chicken Fried Chicken’s winning combination of simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal makes it a staple of Texas comfort food that is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Homemade Chicken Fried Steak

Understanding the importance of a well-crafted breading is crucial to achieving a truly exceptional homemade Chicken Fried Steak experience. A combination of flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder work in harmony to create a seasoned crust that not only adds flavor but also provides texture. Regular buttermilk plays a vital role as it acts as the adhesive for the batter, helping to maintain the integrity of the breading throughout the cooking process.
To ensure this delicate balance, it’s essential to coat the steak in the seasoned flour, dip it into buttermilk, and then coat it once again in flour before frying it in vegetable oil or shortening. This triple-coating technique allows for a beautifully crispy exterior to form, perfectly complemented by the tender and juicy interior of the steak.
When served with a side of white gravy, this beloved dish is elevated to new heights, providing a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Healthier Chicken Fried Steak

Yearning for a twist on the classic southern dish, Healthier Chicken Fried Steak delivers a crispy and flavorful breading without sacrificing any of the original’s taste. The gravy is seasoned and satisfying, making it a guilt-free option that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. To make this recipe shine, pair it with side dishes like green beans or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded and filling meal.
While it may not be suitable as a make-ahead dish, serving it fresh ensures that its crispy texture remains intact, making every bite a delight.








