This Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak recipe is a comfort food classic in my house!
The crispy, golden coating paired with tender steak makes it irresistible.
I love how the creamy gravy adds richness to every bite.
It’s so fun setting up my breading station with a mix of seasoned flour, cayenne pepper, and crushed saltine crackers.
I always recommend using a cast iron skillet for even cooking and that authentic crispy texture.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Cube Steak
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 2 cups Buttermilk
- 2 Eggs
- 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Begin by patting the cube steaks dry with paper towels.
Then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2:
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In another dish, combine buttermilk and eggs to make a wet mixture.
Step 3:
Dip each steak into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk mixture, and back into the flour.
Make sure each steak is fully coated.
Step 4:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, carefully place the coated steaks into the oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 5:
Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choose the Right Oil
Using a neutral oil like vegetable oil is key to getting that perfect crispy crust without adding unwanted flavors.
Don’t Skip the Rest
Letting the coated steak rest for just a few minutes before frying will help the breading adhere better, leading to a crunchier crust.
Maintain the Temperature
It’s important to keep your oil at a consistent temperature to ensure the steaks fry evenly and develop a nice golden crust.
Try Buttermilk for Tenderness
Using buttermilk instead of regular milk adds tenderness and a slight tang that enhances the flavor of your chicken fried steak.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste
Feel free to add spices such as paprika or cayenne for a little extra kick if you enjoy a spicier crust.
What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
Mashed Potatoes
You can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes as a side for your chicken fried steak.
The smooth texture pairs perfectly with the crunchy exterior and savory flavors of the steak.
Add a dollop of butter or gravy on top for that extra richness!
Green Beans
A simple yet delicious option is a side of sautéed green beans.
Cook them with garlic and a touch of lemon for a refreshing contrast that complements the hearty steak.
The bright green color also adds a nice visual appeal to your plate.
Cornbread
Imagine serving warm cornbread alongside your chicken fried steak.
The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread makes a wonderful match for the savory steak.
You might even enjoy it with a little honey butter melted on top!
Couscous Salad
If you’re looking for something a bit different, a couscous salad could be just what you need.
With fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, this side dish brings bright and tangy flavors to your meal.
It’s a delightful twist that could surprise and delight your tastebuds.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze can add a touch of sophistication to your meal.
The caramelized edges provide a lovely texture, and the slight bitterness complements the rich flavors of the chicken fried steak.
This side dish can definitely give your meal a gourmet edge!
Variations and Substitutions
Spice it Up
You can give your chicken fried steak a kick by adding a bit more cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
This adds a nice spicy touch without overpowering the dish.
If you prefer it milder, just reduce the amount of cayenne.
Alternative Coatings
Instead of just using flour, you can use crushed Saltines for a different texture.
This adds an extra crunch and unique flavor.
It is an easy swap that can give your recipe a twist.
Dairy-Free Options
If you are avoiding dairy, substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
This gives a similar tangy flavor that buttermilk offers.
Oil Choices
I found that using different oils can change the flavor profile.
Try using peanut oil or canola oil for different results.
They provide subtle taste differences, and it’s worth experimenting with!
Gluten-Free Flair
For a gluten-free variation, consider using a gluten-free flour blend for the breading and coating.
This ensures you keep the crunch without any gluten.
It’s a simple switch that maintains the integrity of the dish.
How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak
You’re going to love having leftover chicken fried steak for a quick meal later on! Make sure to allow your leftovers to cool down to room temperature before storing them.
Wrap each piece of steak individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to help retain its moisture and prevent freezer burn.
To keep your leftovers fresh in the fridge, place the wrapped steaks in an airtight container. They’ll stay good in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you’re planning to store them longer, I recommend putting the wrapped steaks into a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months!
Label the storage bag with the date to make sure you know how long they’ve been in there.
This way, you’ll always know when it’s time to enjoy them again!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcoating the Meat
You might think more coating means more flavor, but be careful!
Too much coating can result in a soggy exterior instead of that satisfying crunch.
Dip your steak in the flour mixture just enough to coat it thoroughly but lightly.
Skipping Temperature Checks
Don’t overlook checking the oil temperature, as this is crucial!
If the oil is not hot enough, the steak will absorb more oil and become greasy.
Ensure the oil is around 350°F for optimal cooking results!
Incorrect Breading Station Setup
Setting up your breading station properly is key to efficiency and success.
Arrange your flour mixture, egg wash, and breading in a logical order.
This keeps everything organized and makes the process smoother.
Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak Recipe
- 1 lb Cube Steak
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 2 cups Buttermilk
- 2 Eggs
- 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
- Begin by patting the cube steaks dry with paper towels.
- Then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In another dish, combine buttermilk and eggs to make a wet mixture.
- Dip each steak into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk mixture, and back into the flour.
- Make sure each steak is fully coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, carefully place the coated steaks into the oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
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