Crispy & Fried

Chicken Fried Steak

Name: Chicken Fried Steak
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups breadcrumbs; 2 eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; Vegetable oil for frying

By Theo Calloway · June 19, 2026 · Crispy & Fried

Prep30 min

Cook20 min

Total50 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I had Chicken Fried Steak - it was at a family gathering, and my aunt had made it for dinner. The combination of the crispy exterior and the juicy interior was love at first bite. Since then, I've been perfecting my own recipe, and I'm excited to share it with you. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it's sure to become a family favorite.

One of the things that makes this recipe so special is the use of everyday ingredients. You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, and the rest can be easily found at your local grocery store. The best part? It's incredibly easy to make, and the results are always impressive.

When I'm making Chicken Fried Steak, I like to think about the people I'm cooking for. My family loves it when I make this dish, and it's always a hit with our friends. It's the perfect comfort food, and it's sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just a few people, this recipe is sure to please.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs to create a crispy exterior. The chicken will be cooked to perfection, with a juicy interior and a golden-brown crust. We'll also be using a mixture of spices and seasonings to add flavor to the dish. And the best part? It's all incredibly easy to make, and the results are always delicious.

So if you're looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire, I highly recommend giving Chicken Fried Steak a try. It's a classic dish that's sure to become a favorite, and it's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, and the results are always delicious.
The use of everyday ingredients makes this dish accessible to anyone.
The combination of a crispy exterior and a juicy interior is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The use of spices and seasonings adds a depth of flavor to the dish that's hard to beat.
This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, and it's perfect for cooking for a crowd.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Chicken Fried Steak is in the breading. By using a combination of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, we're able to create a crispy exterior that's both crunchy and flavorful. The eggs help to bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken, while the flour provides a light and airy texture.

Another important factor is the cooking temperature. By cooking the chicken at a medium-high heat, we're able to achieve a golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the interior juicy and tender. And by using a thermometer to check the internal temperature, we can ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.

Finally, the use of spices and seasonings adds a depth of flavor to the dish that's hard to beat. By using a combination of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, we're able to add a smoky and savory flavor to the chicken that's sure to please.

Overall, the combination of a crispy exterior, a juicy interior, and a flavorful seasoning blend makes this Chicken Fried Steak recipe a real winner. It's a dish that's sure to become a staple in your household, and it's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the things that makes this recipe so special is the use of everyday ingredients. You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, and the rest can be easily found at your local grocery store. From the chicken breasts to the breadcrumbs, every ingredient plays a crucial role in the final dish.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items that will add to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. For example, using fresh spices and seasonings can make a big difference in the final product. And don't be afraid to get creative with your ingredient choices - this recipe is a great opportunity to experiment with new flavors and combinations.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breastsLook for chicken breasts that are fresh and have a good texture. You can also use chicken tenders or chicken cutlets if you prefer.
1 cup all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is a great choice for this recipe because it provides a light and airy texture. You can also use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if you prefer.
2 teaspoons paprikaPaprika adds a smoky and savory flavor to the dish that's hard to beat. You can also use smoked paprika for a more intense flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powderGarlic powder is a great way to add flavor to the dish without overpowering the other ingredients. You can also use fresh garlic if you prefer.
1 teaspoon onion powderOnion powder adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish that's hard to beat. You can also use fresh onions if you prefer.
1 teaspoon saltSalt is essential for bringing out the flavors in the dish. Use a high-quality salt that's fresh and has a good texture.
1/2 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper adds a nice kick to the dish that's hard to beat. You can also use white pepper or green pepper if you prefer.
2 cups breadcrumbsBreadcrumbs provide a crunchy texture to the dish that's hard to beat. You can also use panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer.
2 eggsEggs help to bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken and provide a rich and creamy flavor. You can also use egg substitutes if you prefer.
1 cup buttermilkButtermilk adds a tangy and creamy flavor to the dish that's hard to beat. You can also use regular milk or a non-dairy milk substitute if you prefer.
Vegetable oil for fryingVegetable oil is a great choice for frying because it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. You can also use peanut oil or avocado oil if you prefer.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or wokSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWhisk

How to Make Chicken Fried Steak

1
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2
In a separate dish, beat the eggs until they're well mixed.
3
In a third dish, mix together the breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4
Pour the buttermilk into a large bowl and add the chicken breasts. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
5
Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk and dip them in the flour mixture, coating them evenly.
6
Dip the floured chicken breasts in the beaten eggs, making sure they're fully coated.
7
Roll the egg-coated chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to help them stick.
8
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 F.
9
Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they're golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 F (74 C).
10
Remove the chicken breasts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
11
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
12
Serve the Chicken Fried Steak hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken and prevent them from falling off.
Don't overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken breasts one or two at a time, depending on the size of your skillet.
Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute and the chicken to stay tender.
Experiment with different seasonings and spices to add more flavor to the dish.
Try using different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs, for a different texture.
For an extra crispy coating, try chilling the breaded chicken breasts in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying.
To make the dish more substantial, serve the Chicken Fried Steak with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not soaking the chicken breasts in buttermilk long enough. This can result in a dry and tough final product.
Not using enough oil in the skillet. This can cause the chicken to stick to the pan and the breadcrumbs to fall off.
Not cooking the chicken to a safe internal temperature. This can result in food poisoning.
Overcrowding the skillet. This can cause the chicken to stick together and the breadcrumbs to fall off.
Not letting the chicken rest before slicing and serving. This can result in a dry and tough final product.
Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients. This can result in a final product that's lacking in flavor and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of protein, such as pork or turkey, for a different flavor and texture.
Experiment with different seasonings and spices, such as cumin or coriander, for a more exotic flavor.
Use different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs, for a different texture.
Add some heat to the dish by using hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Try using different types of oil, such as peanut oil or avocado oil, for a different flavor.
Add some freshness to the dish by using herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for garnish.
Serve the Chicken Fried Steak with a side of gravy or sauce, such as country gravy or BBQ sauce.

What to Serve With Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Try serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with a side of gravy or sauce, such as country gravy or BBQ sauce, for added flavor.

For a more substantial meal, try serving the Chicken Fried Steak with a side of biscuits or cornbread. You can also add some freshness to the dish by using herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for garnish.

Mashed potatoesRoasted vegetablesSide saladBiscuitsCornbreadGravy or sauce

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Chicken Fried Steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, place the cooked chicken breasts in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat, simply place the chicken breasts in the oven at 350 F for about 10-15 minutes, or until they're heated through. You can also reheat the chicken in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

When reheating, make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure that it reaches 165 F (74 C). This will help prevent food poisoning and ensure that the chicken is safe to eat.

It's also important to note that Chicken Fried Steak is best served fresh, so try to consume it within a day or two of cooking. If you need to store it for a longer period of time, consider freezing it for later use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of oil is best for frying Chicken Fried Steak?

Vegetable oil is a great choice for frying Chicken Fried Steak because it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. You can also use peanut oil or avocado oil if you prefer.

How do I ensure that the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken?

To ensure that the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. You can also try chilling the breaded chicken breasts in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying.

What is the internal temperature that the chicken should reach?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 F (74 C) to ensure that it's cooked to a safe temperature.

Can I use different types of protein for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of protein, such as pork or turkey, for a different flavor and texture.

How do I store Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken Fried Steak can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, place the cooked chicken breasts in an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

Can I reheat Chicken Fried Steak?

Yes, you can reheat Chicken Fried Steak in the oven or microwave. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure that it reaches 165 F (74 C).

What are some variations of this recipe?

There are many variations of this recipe, including using different types of protein, seasonings, and breadcrumbs. You can also try adding different sauces or gravies to the dish for added flavor.

Is Chicken Fried Steak a healthy option?

While Chicken Fried Steak can be a delicious and satisfying meal, it's not necessarily a healthy option due to the high fat and calorie content. However, you can try making healthier versions of the dish by using leaner protein, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and baking instead of frying.

The Full Recipe

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