My Mama'S Chicken Fried Steak
Crispy chicken fried steak features tender cubed steak coated in crushed saltines, then fried to golden perfection. Its savory, crunchy exterior pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides, making it a hearty choice for family dinners or weekend indulgence. Perfect for those who love flavorful, crispy Southern-style cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs and milk in a separate dish.
- Crush saltine crackers into large pieces in a dish with sides or a pie plate.
- Dredge the cubed steak in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the crushed saltines.
- Fry the coated steaks in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier coating, consider using crushed cornflakes instead of saltines. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper to the egg mixture. Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy texture and prevent the patties from absorbing too much oil. Adjust the thickness of your steaks for even cooking; thinner pieces will fry faster.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Mama's Chicken Fried Steak with creamy gravy on top for an authentic touch. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, collard greens, or a fresh garden salad. For a twist, consider serving it alongside a side of Barbecue Corned Beef for a hearty meal option. Don't forget some crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken fried steak in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, which helps retain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mama'S Chicken Fried Steak contains roughly 193 calories, with 8g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while cubed steak is traditional, you can substitute it with chicken breast or pork chops. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these meats may require less time to cook through. Just ensure they are coated well to maintain the crunchy exterior.
What's the best oil for frying chicken fried steak?
Vegetable oil or canola oil are great choices due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can burn easily, affecting the taste and texture of the steak.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of saltines. Additionally, ensure that the cubed steak is labeled gluten-free. The cooking method remains the same for delicious 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).