The aroma of sizzling chicken fried steak wafts through the air, a symphony of savory notes that promises comfort in every bite. Imagine tender chicken coated in a golden crust and smothered in creamy gravy—pure bliss on a plate! This dish is not just food; it’s a hug from your grandma on a rainy day.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- <strong>Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for chicken fried steak?</strong>
- <strong>What is the best oil to use for frying?</strong>
- <strong>How do I make a gravy to accompany my chicken fried steak?</strong>
- 📖 Recipe Card
You know that feeling when you take a bite of something so good it practically transports you back to childhood? That’s what chicken fried steak does for me. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners when the world outside seems chaotic but your kitchen feels like home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This simple chicken fried steak recipe brings joy and comfort without hours of prep work.
- The flavors are rich and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.
- Visually appealing with its golden crust, it makes your dinner table come alive.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with various sides!
I remember the first time I served this dish; my friends’ eyes widened with delight as they dove into their plates. The compliments kept pouring in—definitely a night to remember!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well, but adjust depending on your crowd size.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that crispy coating; sift it for best results.
- Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and keeps the chicken moist; homemade works great too!
- Eggs: Use large eggs to bind and enrich the batter.
- Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Enhance flavor; don’t be shy about seasoning generously.
- Cooking Oil: Vegetable or canola oil is ideal for frying; ensure it’s hot enough before adding chicken.
For the Gravy:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness in your gravy.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess; make sure it’s fresh.
- Onions (optional): Sautéed onions can elevate the flavor profile; chop finely for best results.
- Garlic Powder: A pinch gives an aromatic kick to your gravy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the boneless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound them gently until they’re about half an inch thick; this ensures even cooking.
Marinate in Buttermilk: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk with salt and pepper. Submerge the flattened chicken breasts in this mixture; let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—this adds flavor and tenderness.
Create Your Breading Station: Set up three bowls—one with seasoned flour, another with beaten eggs, and one more with flour again. This double-dipping technique guarantees maximum crispiness!
Bread the Chicken Fried Steak : Take each marinated piece of chicken, dip it into flour first, then into egg wash, and finally coat it again in flour. Press firmly to ensure that coating sticks well.
Fry Until Golden Brown : Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add breaded chicken pieces and fry until golden brown on both sides—about 4-5 minutes per side should do it.
Make the Gravy : In the same skillet used for frying (don’t waste those delicious drippings!), add chopped onions if using—cook until translucent. Sprinkle flour over drippings to create a roux; whisk in chicken broth gradually until smooth, then stir in heavy cream until thickened.
Serve your glorious chicken fried steak hot over mashed potatoes or rice with that heavenly gravy drizzled on top! Enjoy every crispy bite while basking in compliments from loved ones around you!
You Must Know
- Mastering chicken fried steak involves more than just technique; it’s about finding joy in cooking.
- The aroma of sizzling chicken fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around, creating a warm atmosphere that makes any meal special.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken, then coat it with flour before frying to achieve the ideal texture. While the chicken cooks, prepare your sides to maximize efficiency and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular flour with whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier twist. You can also add garlic powder or cayenne pepper for extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal crunchiness, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying.
- Always taste your seasonings before coating the chicken to avoid blandness.
- Finally, don’t overcrowd the pan; this prevents proper browning!
It was during a family gathering that I first made chicken fried steak from scratch. Watching my relatives devour it made all the effort worthwhile and inspired me to perfect my recipe.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for chicken fried steak?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work beautifully if you adjust cooking times accordingly.
What is the best oil to use for frying?
Use vegetable or canola oil for high smoke points and neutral flavors.
How do I make a gravy to accompany my chicken fried steak?
Use drippings from frying, whisk in flour, broth, and seasonings until thickened.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Easy Chicken Fried Steak Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the comfort of this crispy chicken fried steak, perfectly coated and smothered in rich gravy—a delightful dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup finely chopped onions (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to half-inch thickness.
- 2. Marinate in Buttermilk: In a bowl, mix buttermilk with salt and pepper, then submerge chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- 3. Create Breading Station: Set up three bowls—seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and flour again for double-dipping.
- 4. Bread the Chicken: Dip marinated chicken in flour, then egg wash, and coat again in flour.
- 5. Fry Until Golden Brown: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- 6. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, sauté onions (if using) until translucent. Add flour to drippings to create a roux; gradually whisk in broth and stir in heavy cream until thickened.
Notes
- Use room temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Let fried chicken rest briefly to maintain crispiness.
- Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken fried steak (250g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg