If you love crispy chicken recipes, this crispy buttermilk chicken fried steak is a Southern comfort food classic you’ll make again and again. Juicy, tenderized cube steaks are seasoned, dipped in zesty buttermilk batter, and double-coated in flour before being fried to golden perfection. The result? A crunchy, flavorful crust that gives way to tender, juicy meat inside.
To make it even better, the steaks are topped with a rich, creamy peppered country gravy that takes this dish to the next level. It’s homestyle cooking at its best — hearty, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or Sunday suppers. Pair it with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or buttery corn for the ultimate Southern feast.
Whether you’re searching for crispy chicken cutlets, crispy chicken breast, or the best comfort food dinner idea, this recipe will satisfy every craving. With its irresistible crunch and creamy gravy, it’s like having a crispy chicken sandwich experience, but in a warm, comforting steak form.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (about 4) cube steaks, tenderized
- 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (optional for spice)
- ½ tsp celery salt
- 1 tsp kosher salt or seasoned salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Canola oil, for frying
For the gravy:
- 3 tbsp reserved pan drippings
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the steaks – Pound cube steaks until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
- Make the coating – In a shallow dish, whisk flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and celery salt. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg.
- Coat the steaks – Dredge each steak in flour, dip in buttermilk mixture, then dredge again in flour for a thick, crunchy crust. Place on a wire rack while oil heats.
- Fry the steaks – Heat 1 inch of canola oil in a large skillet to 350°F. Fry each steak for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the gravy – In the same skillet, leave 3 tbsp drippings. Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot – Spoon creamy gravy over the crispy steaks and serve immediately with mashed potatoes or biscuits.
💡 Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add cayenne pepper to the flour mix.
- Swap cube steak with chicken breast for crispy chicken cutlets.
- Try making crispy chicken fried steak in the air fryer by spraying steaks with oil and air-frying at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
- Serve with buttered corn, coleslaw, or mac and cheese for a complete Southern meal.