Few dishes embody the spirit of Southern comfort food quite like chicken fried steak. With its golden, crispy coating and rich, creamy gravy, this dish is a staple in diners, family kitchens, and Sunday suppers across the country. The Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak recipe takes this beloved dish and elevates it with a perfectly seasoned crust and a velvety smooth gravy that brings it all together.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving a hearty, satisfying meal, this dish delivers on all fronts. The combination of tender cube steak, a crunchy breading, and a flavorful country-style gravy makes it a go-to recipe for those who love traditional Southern cuisine.
The Origins of Chicken Fried Steak
Though often associated with Southern cooking, chicken fried steak has a fascinating history that ties together European and American culinary traditions. The dish is believed to have evolved from the German and Austrian Wiener Schnitzel, which consists of breaded and fried veal. German immigrants brought this technique to Texas in the 19th century, where they adapted it using locally available beef.
Over time, the dish became a Southern icon, with each region putting its own spin on it. Some versions are thin and extra crispy, while others have a thicker coating and a more tender texture. No matter how it’s prepared, chicken fried steak remains a symbol of comfort and home-style cooking.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cube Steaks
- Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels.
- Lightly season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, seasoned salt, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- In a separate shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk.
Step 3: Bread the Steaks
- Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour.
- Dip the floured steak into the egg mixture.
- Return the steak to the flour, pressing firmly to create a thick coating.
Step 4: Fry the Steaks
- Heat ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Fry the steaks in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
- Discard most of the oil, leaving about ¼ cup with the browned bits in the pan.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened, seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon the creamy gravy over the crispy chicken fried steak.
- Serve with your favorite Southern sides.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Steak with Gravy):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
Why Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern Favorite
1. Crispy and Flavorful Coating
The hallmark of a great chicken fried steak is its perfectly seasoned crust. A combination of flour, spices, and a double-dipping technique creates an irresistibly crunchy exterior. The crispiness contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tender steak inside.
2. Rich and Creamy Country-Style Gravy
No chicken fried steak is complete without a ladle of creamy gravy. Made with pan drippings, flour, and milk, this smooth, savory sauce coats each bite, adding an extra layer of indulgence. The gravy is thick, comforting, and full of flavor.
3. A Hearty and Satisfying Meal
Chicken fried steak isn’t just delicious—it’s filling. Served alongside mashed potatoes, biscuits, or collard greens, it becomes a meal that satisfies the heartiest of appetites. Whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s a dish that feels like home.
4. Easy to Make at Home
While restaurant versions are popular, homemade chicken fried steak is even better. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can achieve that golden, crispy coating and rich, flavorful gravy in your own kitchen.
How to Get the Perfect Chicken Fried Steak
1. Use the Right Cut of Meat
The best chicken fried steak starts with the right cut of beef. Cube steak is the traditional choice because it has been tenderized, making it ideal for frying. If cube steak isn’t available, you can use top round or sirloin, but be sure to tenderize it with a meat mallet before cooking.
2. Double Dredging for Maximum Crunch
A key technique for a crispy, well-adhered coating is double dredging. This involves dipping the steak in seasoned flour, then an egg-milk mixture, and back into the flour. The result is a thick, crunchy crust that holds up during frying.
3. Maintain the Right Oil Temperature
Keeping the frying oil at a consistent temperature (around 350°F) is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the steak is cooked through. If it’s too cool, the steak will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
4. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
After frying, let the steaks rest on a wire rack instead of a paper towel-lined plate. This prevents the crust from getting soggy and helps maintain its crunch.
5. Make the Gravy While the Pan is Hot
One of the best parts of this dish is the homemade gravy, which is made using the pan drippings from the steak. Whisking flour into the drippings and gradually adding milk creates a smooth, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fried Steak
While chicken fried steak is delicious on its own, the right side dishes can take it to another level. Here are some classic pairings:
1. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate pairing for chicken fried steak. Their smooth texture contrasts beautifully with the crispy coating, and they soak up the rich gravy perfectly.
2. Buttermilk Biscuits
A flaky, buttery biscuit is a fantastic companion to this dish. Use it to scoop up extra gravy or enjoy it as a side with honey or jam.
3. Southern-Style Green Beans
A side of tender green beans cooked with bacon or ham adds a fresh, savory balance to the meal.
4. Macaroni and Cheese
For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve chicken fried steak with creamy macaroni and cheese. The cheesy, rich pasta is a decadent complement to the dish.
5. Collard Greens
If you’re looking for a traditional Southern side, collard greens bring a touch of bitterness that balances the richness of the steak and gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the steaks in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also fry them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.
3. Can I freeze chicken fried steak?
Yes! Freeze the fried steaks without gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What oil should I use for frying?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, is ideal for frying. These oils ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
5. How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
To keep the breading from falling off during frying:
- Pat the steak dry before breading.
- Press the flour mixture firmly onto the meat.
- Let the breaded steaks rest for a few minutes before frying.
6. Is chicken fried steak the same as country fried steak?
No, they are similar but different. Chicken fried steak has a crispier, thicker breading and is served with white cream gravy. Country fried steak has a lighter breading and is often served with brown gravy.
Conclusion: A Comfort Food Classic Worth Making
Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Southern tradition, home cooking, and bold flavors. The crispy breading, tender steak, and creamy gravy create an unforgettable combination that feels like pure comfort on a plate.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a Sunday brunch, or just to satisfy a craving, this recipe delivers every time. With the right techniques and a little patience, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a timeless Southern classic. One bite, and you’ll understand why chicken fried steak is a dish that has stood the test of time.
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Best Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak – Simple & Delicious!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Crispy, golden, and smothered in creamy gravy, Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak is the ultimate Southern comfort food. This recipe brings together tender cube steaks, a perfectly seasoned crust, and rich, flavorful gravy to create a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or biscuits, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1.5 pounds total)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Gravy:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cube Steaks:
Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels and lightly season both sides with salt and pepper. - Set Up the Breading Station:
In one shallow dish, combine the flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. In a second shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. - Bread the Steaks:
Dredge each cube steak in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the flour mixture again. Press the flour into the steak to create a thick crust. - Fry the Steaks:
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry the steaks in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. - Make the Gravy:
Carefully pour off most of the oil from the skillet, leaving about 1/4 cup and any browned bits. Whisk in the flour and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Serve:
Spoon the gravy generously over the fried steaks and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- To Keep Steaks Warm: Place fried steaks in a 200°F oven while making the gravy.
- Spicy Option: Add extra cayenne pepper or serve with hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Storage: Leftover steaks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze the fried steaks without gravy for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 miutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: s
