Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak is a easy American (Southern/Texas) recipe that serves 4. 620 calories per serving. Recipe by Tim Laielli on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 45 min

Cost: $10.13 total, $2.53 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb Cube Steak (Tenderized, thin cut; preferably from the meat department)
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (For dredging)
  • 1 tsp Salt (Kosher or sea salt)
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
  • 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder (Optional, for extra flavor)
  • 0.5 tsp Paprika (Smoked paprika works well)
  • 2 large Egg (Beaten)
  • 0.5 cup Milk (Whole milk; can use 2%)
  • 2 cup Vegetable Oil (For deep frying; high smoke point)

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Seasonings

    In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until evenly distributed.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Pound the Steak

    Place each cube steak between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound to an even thickness of about ¼‑inch.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Prepare Egg Wash

    In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully blended.

    Time: PT2M

  4. First Dredge

    Dip each pounded steak into the seasoned flour, coating both sides. Shake off excess.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Egg Wash Dip

    Immediately submerge the flour‑coated steak into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Second Dredge

    Return the steak to the flour mixture for a second coating. Pat gently to adhere.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Heat Oil

    Add the vegetable oil to the skillet (enough to come about ½‑inch up the sides). Heat over medium‑high until the oil reaches 350°F.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 350°F

  8. Fry the Steaks

    Working one at a time, carefully place a steak into the hot oil. Fry 3‑4 minutes per side, or until deep golden brown and the interior reaches 145°F.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: 350°F

  9. Drain and Rest

    Using tongs, transfer the fried steak to a plate lined with paper towels. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
620
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
38g
Fat
34g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: Contains gluten, Contains dairy, Contains eggs

Allergens: Wheat (flour), Eggs, Dairy (milk)

Last updated: April 11, 2026

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Chicken Fried Steak

Recipe by Tim Laielli

A classic Texas comfort food—tenderized cube steak coated in a seasoned flour‑egg batter and fried until golden brown. Served hot with a crisp crust, this dish captures the hearty spirit of small‑town Texas festivals.

EasyAmerican (Southern/Texas)Serves 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
27m
Prep
8m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
45m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$10.13
Total cost
$2.53
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Pound the steak to an even thickness
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F
  • Do not overcrowd the pan during frying

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; keep a lid nearby to smother flames.
  • Never leave heating oil unattended.
  • Use oven mitts when handling the skillet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Chicken Fried Steak in Texas and Oklahoma cuisine?

A

Chicken Fried Steak originated with German immigrants in the 1830s and became a beloved comfort food in Texas. It was later adopted as the state dish of Oklahoma, symbolizing the region’s love for hearty, fried fare and community festivals like the Lame Mesa Chicken Fried Steak Festival.

cultural
Q

How did the town of Lame Mesa, Texas influence the popularity of Chicken Fried Steak?

A

Lame Mesa hosts an annual Chicken Fried Steak Festival, which showcases the dish as a centerpiece of local pride. The festival helped spread the recipe beyond the town, cementing its status as a regional staple.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Chicken Fried Steak versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional Chicken Fried Steak uses cube steak, all‑purpose flour, eggs, milk, and simple seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Acceptable substitutes include flank or top‑round steak for the meat, gluten‑free flour for those avoiding wheat, and dairy‑free milk alternatives for a lighter version.

cultural
Q

What other Southern dishes pair well with Chicken Fried Steak in a classic Texas meal?

A

Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, country‑style green beans, corn on the cob, and a simple brown gravy made from the pan drippings. A side of pickles or coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Fried Steak at home?

A

Common errors include not pounding the steak thin enough, using oil that isn’t hot enough, and overcrowding the pan which drops the oil temperature. Each of these leads to a soggy crust or uneven cooking.

technical
Q

Why does this Chicken Fried Steak recipe use a double dredge (flour‑egg‑flour) instead of a single coating?

A

The double dredge creates a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up to the hot oil and provides the signature bite. A single coating often results in a thinner, less satisfying texture.

technical
Q

Can I make Chicken Fried Steak ahead of time and how should I store it before serving?

A

Yes, you can bread the steaks and keep them refrigerated for up to 2 hours before frying. Store them uncovered on a plate covered loosely with plastic wrap; fry them directly from the fridge for best results.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Chicken Fried Steak is done cooking?

A

The crust should be deep golden‑brown, crisp to the touch, and the interior meat should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. The steak should feel firm but not dry.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Tim Laielli specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Tim Laielli focuses on exploring regional comfort foods across America, often highlighting quirky local dishes and providing straightforward, home‑cook‑friendly recipes.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Tim Laielli's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Tim Laielli blends humor with cultural commentary, emphasizing the story behind each dish while keeping the cooking process simple and accessible. Unlike many channels that prioritize high‑tech production, he often uses a casual, down‑to‑earth style that resonates with everyday home cooks.

channel

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