Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak for Comfort Food Lovers

Hi I'm Emma

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on November 6, 2025

As I stood in my kitchen, the warm aroma of frying chicken wafted through the air, a comforting reminder of the countless family dinners spent gathered around the table. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak, a dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to any meal. This cozy favorite features juicy cube steaks enveloped in a perfectly seasoned flour batter, fried until golden brown, and drizzled with a rich, creamy peppered gravy. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that’s sure to impress both family and friends. With quick prep and the ability to please any crowd, this dish is your ticket to a homestyle feast that cuts through the noise of fast food. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the details of this savory delight!

Why is this Chicken Fried Steak a Must-Try?

Crispy Perfection: The secret to this dish lies in the double-dipping process, ensuring each bite is delightfully crunchy.
Comforting Flavor: A zesty buttermilk marinade tenderizes the steaks, while the seasoned flour adds a savory kick.
Quick and Easy: In less than an hour, you can serve up this homestyle favorite, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Crowd-Pleasing Magic: Whether it’s family gatherings or a cozy dinner for two, this dish captivates everyone. For a complete Southern feast, pair it with creamy coleslaw or mashed potatoes.
Versatile Gravy: Customize your gravy with a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist, or try topping with pickles for an unexpected crunch!
This Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the simple joys of home-cooked meals.

Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak Ingredients

• For the Steak

Cube Steaks – Choose tender cuts for a succulent bite that makes this dish shine.
Buttermilk – The tangy marinade adds moisture and flavor; substitute with milk and vinegar if needed!

• For the Coating

Seasoned Flour – A mixture of flour, salt, and pepper creates a deliciously crispy crust.
Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying; opt for canola or peanut oil for better heat resistance.

• For the Gravy

Flour – Helps thicken the gravy for that perfect creamy texture.
Butter – Adds richness to the gravy, enhancing the overall flavor.
Broth – Choose chicken or beef broth to bring depth to your peppery sauce.
Black Pepper – Freshly ground pepper elevates the gravy’s flavor profile; don’t skip it!

With these Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak ingredients, you’re just moments away from creating a Southern comfort food sensation that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Steaks
Begin by soaking the cube steaks in a generous amount of buttermilk for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the steaks while infusing them with a delightful tanginess. Cover the bowl and refrigerate during the marinating process, allowing the buttermilk to work its magic and enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the steaks marinate, mix together the seasoned flour in a large bowl. Combine all-purpose flour with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices for a flavorful coating. Ensure the mixture is well-blended, as this seasoned flour is key to achieving that iconic crispy texture for your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak.

Step 3: Dredge Steaks
After marinating, take each cube steak from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off gently. Dredge the steaks evenly in the seasoned flour, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping. This creates a crispy crust that will fry to a golden perfection, making your dish irresistible.

Step 4: Fry Steaks
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering—approximately 350°F. Carefully add the coated cube steaks, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain the right frying temperature.

Step 5: Make the Gravy
With the steaks fried, drain excess oil from the skillet, leaving about two tablespoons. Add equal parts of flour and butter to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, and cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Incorporate freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor.

Step 6: Serve
Once your gravy is prepared, it’s time to serve the Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak! Place the golden-brown steaks on plates and drizzle the creamy gravy generously over them. For an authentic touch, garnish with extra black pepper if desired. This comforting dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends around the dinner table.

What to Serve with Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak

When planning a meal that warms the soul, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the comforting appeal of your dinner.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Smooth and buttery, these mashed potatoes soak up the rich gravy, creating a symphony of flavors on your plate.
Southern Green Beans:
Tender, sautéed green beans add a vibrant, fresh crunch that beautifully contrasts with the crispy steak and creamy gravy.
Buttermilk Biscuits:
Fluffy and warm, these biscuits are perfect for sopping up gravy, bringing an extra layer of homestyle charm to your meal.
Coleslaw:
With its crunchy texture and zesty flavor, coleslaw offers a refreshing balance to the savory fried steak, cutting through richness beautifully.
Cornbread:
Moist and slightly sweet, cornbread complements the flavors of the chicken fried steak and adds a delightful Southern touch to your feast.
Sweet Tea:
This classic Southern beverage refreshes the palate, offering a perfect balance to the hearty meal you’ve prepared.
Peach Cobbler:
End your meal on a sweet note with warm peach cobbler; its buttery crust and juicy filling create an irresistible dessert that’s simply comforting.

With these dishes, your dinner transforms into a warm gathering, celebrating the love of homemade food and cherished moments together.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak ahead of time can save you precious minutes during busy weeknights. You can marinate the cube steaks in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, which not only tenderizes the meat but enhances flavor. Additionally, you can mix the seasoned flour and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply dredge the marinated steaks in the prepared flour and fry them as instructed. For the gravy, it’s best prepared fresh to maintain its creamy texture, but you can pre-measure and mix the dry ingredients in advance. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the crispy steak tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain that crunchy texture of your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak.

Gravy Storage: Store gravy separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stovetop while stirring until hot.

Tips for the Best Chicken Fried Steak

Hot Oil Required: Ensure your oil is adequately heated to 350°F before frying. This prevents the batter from becoming soggy and helps achieve that perfect crispiness for your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the steaks in batches, giving each piece enough space. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in less crispy and unevenly cooked steaks.
Perfect Dredging Technique: Make sure to shake off excess flour after coating the steaks. This prevents clumping and ensures an even, crunchy crust once fried.
Monitoring Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the frying time! Each side should take about 3-4 minutes. If the coating gets too dark, lower the heat slightly to avoid burning.
Gravy Consistency: When making the gravy, whisk continuously while adding the broth to prevent lumps. Adjust thickness by adding more broth or simmering longer for a richer flavor.

Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak Variations

Feel free to mix things up with these delicious twists on this classic recipe that will tantalize your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a mixture of almond milk and vinegar for a creamy, less rich alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour for an exciting level of heat that brings the dish to life.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive loved ones without sacrificing flavor.
Herbed Flour: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or oregano into your seasoned flour for an aromatic flavor boost that pairs beautifully with the gravy.
Pickle-brined: Soak the cube steaks in pickle juice instead of buttermilk for a tangy twist that adds a pop of flavor, just like in some southern delis.
Baked Version: For a lighter option, bread the steaks and bake them instead of frying. Brush with a bit of oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Sweet Gravy: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey in your gravy for a delightful sweet-savory blend that surprises your palate!

As you embark on your culinary journey with this Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak, don’t forget to explore these variations and discover endless possibilities. And if you’re looking to keep the southern flavors flowing, pair it with some of my delicious recipes like Lazy Chicken Parmesan or Korean Fire Chicken. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak Recipe FAQs

What type of cube steaks should I use?
When selecting cube steaks for your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak, look for tender cuts with good marbling. This will ensure a juicy and flavorful bite. It’s best to avoid any steaks that appear tough or overly lean.

How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Store any leftover Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the dish’s deliciousness, it’s best to keep the gravy separate. Reheat the steak in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore that wonderful crispiness.

Can I freeze the chicken fried steak?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled chicken fried steak tightly in plastic wrap, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Why did my chicken fried steak turn out soggy?
If your chicken fried steak isn’t as crispy as expected, it may be due to the oil not being hot enough during frying. Always preheat your oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the steaks. Additionally, ensure you’re not overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and leaves the coating soggy.

Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
Yes! You can easily make this dish dairy-free by substituting buttermilk with a blend of non-dairy milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the tangy flavor. Just be sure to check that your other ingredients, like broth, are also dairy-free when preparing your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak.

Can I customize the gravy for different flavors?
Certainly! To personalize your gravy, you can add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick or stir in some sautéed onions or garlic for extra depth of flavor. Experimenting with the seasoning by adding herbs or different types of pepper can also make your gravy unique and delicious!