Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

A Southern Classic

Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, down-home meal that’s packed with flavor and nostalgia, then this Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak recipe is exactly what you need. A staple in Southern cuisine, this crispy, golden-fried steak smothered in creamy country gravy is pure comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers outstanding results.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect chicken fried steak, including helpful tips, variations, storage instructions, and pairing suggestions. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy, Flavorful Coating – The combination of seasoned flour and buttermilk creates a perfect crispy crust that locks in moisture.
  • Rich and Creamy Gravy – The homemade gravy is thick, creamy, and loaded with flavor.
  • Easy and Affordable – Uses simple pantry ingredients and inexpensive cuts of meat.
  • Great for All Skill Levels – Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Fried Steak:

  • Cube steak (tenderized beef steak)
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil or lard (for frying)

For the Gravy:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Shallow bowls for dredging
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Wire rack or paper towels for draining
  • Saucepan for gravy
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Steak:

  1. Season the flour – In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  2. Whisk the egg mixture – In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
  3. Bread the steak – Dredge each cube steak in the flour, dip it in the egg mixture, then coat it again in the flour for an extra crispy crust.
  4. Fry the steak – Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each steak for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Make the Gravy:

  1. Melt butter – In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Make a roux – Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
  3. Add milk – Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Steak

  • Use Cube Steak – It’s already tenderized, making it ideal for this dish.
  • Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness – Coating the steak twice ensures a thick, crunchy crust.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent.
  • Rest the Steak Before Serving – Letting the steak sit for a few minutes after frying helps retain crispiness.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Swap the Meat – Try using chicken cutlets or pork chops for a different twist.
  • Make it Spicy – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture for extra heat.
  • Dairy-Free Version – Use plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter substitute.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

  • Store leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Store gravy separately in a sealed container in the fridge.

Reheating:

  • Oven Method: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
  • Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 5 minutes.
  • Microwave: Use in short 30-second bursts but note it may lose some crispiness.

Best Side Dishes & Pairings

Side Dish Ideas:

  • Mashed potatoes (perfect for soaking up the gravy)
  • Buttery biscuits
  • Green beans or collard greens
  • Creamed corn
  • Mac and cheese

Drink Pairings:

  • Sweet iced tea
  • A cold beer (like a lager or pale ale)
  • Buttermilk for a true Southern experience

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes! If you can’t find cube steak, you can use top round or sirloin and tenderize it yourself with a meat mallet.

What’s the difference between chicken fried steak and country fried steak?

Both dishes are similar, but chicken fried steak has a crispier, thicker coating, while country fried steak is often dredged in flour once and served with a brown gravy instead of white.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, but the texture will be different. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spritz the steaks with oil to help crisp them up.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Let the breaded steaks rest for 10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere. Also, avoid flipping too soon while frying.

Conclusion

This Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak recipe brings classic Southern comfort to your table with its crispy, golden crust and rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for any meal, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

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