Chicken Fried Steaks
Juicy chicken fried steaks with crispy cracker coating are smothered in rich, savory gravy, making a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for comfort food lovers, this dish pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes and offers a flavorful blend of seasoned meat and creamy sauce, ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, salt, and black pepper; sprinkle on both sides of the steaks.
- Combine the egg and milk in a shallow bowl.
- Dip the steaks in the egg mixture, then dredge in crumbled saltine crackers.
- Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy skillet to a depth of 1/2 inch and heat over medium heat.
- Fry the steaks in the hot oil until brown, turning once.
- Remove the steaks and drain off drippings, reserving 3 tablespoons.
- In the skillet, add 3 tablespoons of flour, stirring until smooth.
- Cook for 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth and 1/2 cup milk; stir constantly until the gravy thickens.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce.
- Serve the gravy over the steaks with cooked rice or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier coating, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the steaks; use a deep-fry thermometer to check the temperature. If you prefer a lighter option, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of saltines. You can also substitute chicken broth with beef broth if desired. For a twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken fried steaks smothered in gravy with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice for a comforting meal. A light green salad or steamed vegetables can balance the richness of the dish. For a Southern-inspired touch, consider pairing it with Parslied Potatoes to complete the plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steaks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. If the gravy thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of milk to bring it back to a pourable consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Fried Steaks contains roughly 410 calories, with 12g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2262mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of beef steaks for this recipe?
While traditional chicken fried steak uses beef, you can certainly use chicken breasts or thighs for a variation. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through, as it may require less time than the beef steaks.
What can I do if the gravy doesn't thicken?
If your gravy isn't thickening, make sure to cook the flour in the drippings long enough before adding the liquid. If it’s still too thin after adding the broth and milk, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in, cooking until thickened.
Can I freeze the chicken fried steaks?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken fried steaks. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).