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Trick to Keep Your Chicken Fried Steak Crispy!

Recipe by Cowboy Kent Rollins

A classic Southern comfort dish—tender cube steak coated in a seasoned flour batter, fried to a golden crisp, and kept perfectly crunchy using a low‑heat oven and paper‑towel lined foil pan. Cowboy Kent Rollins shares his proven tips to avoid soggy crusts, so you can serve restaurant‑quality chicken fried steak at home.

MediumSouthern AmericanServes 4

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Source Video
40m
Prep
12m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 2m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$8.45
Total cost
$2.11
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Season and pat the steak dry before coating.
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for a crisp crust.
  • Use the double‑dip dredging method for a thick batter.
  • Never stack the fried steaks; separate them with bread in a foil pan.
  • Keep the oven uncovered at 170°C (340°F) to prevent steaming.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; use tongs and keep a lid nearby to smother flames.
  • Do not leave the skillet unattended while oil is heating.
  • Ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Chicken Fried Steak in Southern American cuisine?

A

Chicken Fried Steak originated in the American South as a way to stretch inexpensive beef cuts by breading and frying them like chicken. It became a staple comfort food, often served with creamy gravy at family gatherings and diners.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Chicken Fried Steak in Texas cuisine?

A

In Texas, the steak is typically coated with a seasoned flour batter and served with a rich, peppery white gravy. Some variations add crushed cornflakes for extra crunch, while others use buttermilk in the batter for extra tenderness.

cultural
Q

How is Chicken Fried Steak traditionally served in Texas country kitchens?

A

It is usually plated hot, topped with a creamy white pepper gravy, and accompanied by mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple side salad. The dish is often enjoyed for lunch or dinner with a cold sweet tea.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Chicken Fried Steak traditionally associated with in Southern culture?

A

Chicken Fried Steak is a common feature at family Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, and community potlucks in the South. Its hearty nature makes it a favorite for comfort during cooler months.

cultural
Q

What makes Chicken Fried Steak special or unique in Southern American cuisine?

A

The dish combines the tenderness of beef with the crispy, seasoned crust of fried chicken, creating a comforting contrast of textures. Its signature white gravy adds a velvety finish that is uniquely Southern.

cultural
Q

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

A

Common errors include using oil that isn’t hot enough (resulting in a soggy crust), overcrowding the pan (which lowers oil temperature), and covering the finished steaks, which traps steam and softens the breading.

technical
Q

Why does this Chicken Fried Steak recipe use a low‑heat oven instead of covering the steaks to keep them warm?

A

The low‑heat oven (170°C/340°F) keeps the steaks warm without creating steam. Covering them would cause the crust to sweat and lose its crunch, which Cowboy Kent Rollins specifically warns against.

technical
Q

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

A

Yes. Fry the steaks, then place them in a foil pan with paper towels and bread slices, and keep them in a 170°C oven for up to 30 minutes. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

technical
Q

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

A

The crust should be deep golden‑brown, firm to the touch, and crackle slightly when pressed. Inside, the meat should be tender and pink‑red, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Cowboy Kent Rollins specialize in?

A

Cowboy Kent Rollins focuses on authentic Texas and Western cooking, sharing cowboy‑style recipes, outdoor grilling techniques, and hearty comfort foods rooted in ranch and frontier traditions.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Cowboy Kent Rollins' approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Cowboy Kent Rollins emphasizes rustic, no‑frills preparation, often cooking over open flames or in cast‑iron cookware, and he shares practical tips—like the oven‑keep‑crispy method—for preserving texture that many studio‑style channels overlook.

channel

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