Pioneer Woman’s Irresistible Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

When comfort meets culinary creativity, this pioneer woman chicken fried steak becomes your ultimate Southern-style indulgence.

Ranch kitchens inspire hearty meals that speak directly to soul-warming hunger.

Texas-style cooking carries deep traditions of robust, satisfying plates.

Rich golden crusts promise crispy textures that crackle beneath your fork.

Buttermilk marinades tenderize meat for melt-in-your-mouth experiences that surprise and delight.

Pepper-flecked gravy adds unexpected zest to classic home cooking techniques.

You’ll want to gather ingredients and channel your inner home chef with this irresistible recipe.

Why Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak Is A Southern Classic

• Master Southern Comfort: Dive into a classic Pioneer Woman recipe that transforms simple cube steaks into a crispy, golden masterpiece packed with bold, Southern-style flavors.
• Quick Weekend Warrior Meal: Whip up this delicious chicken fried steak in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families craving a hearty, restaurant-quality dinner without complicated techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to win over picky eaters and impress dinner guests with its irresistible crispy coating, rich gravy, and nostalgic home-cooked charm that screams pure comfort food.
• Affordable Gourmet Experience: Create a restaurant-worthy dish using budget-friendly cube steaks and pantry staples, proving you don't need expensive ingredients to make an extraordinary meal that feels like a special treat.

What’s In Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak

• Cube Steak: Classic cut for chicken fried steak, tender and perfect for a crispy coating, best when tenderized and thin.

• All-Purpose Flour, Flour: Base for crispy exterior, helps create a golden and crunchy layer.
• Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Spice blend for deep flavor and seasoning, adds complexity to the coating.

• Eggs, Buttermilk, Hot Sauce: Helps create a thick, adhesive layer for flour mixture, adds tanginess and moisture to the coating.

• Vegetable Oil, Butter: Essential for achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior, butter adds rich flavor to the frying process.

• Flour: Thickening agent for smooth and creamy gravy.
• Milk: Creates a rich and velvety sauce base.
• Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika: Seasonings to enhance gravy flavor and provide depth.

How To Cook Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak

Step 1: Mix Flavor-Packed Coating

• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

• Eggs
• Buttermilk
• Hot sauce

Step 2: Transform Cube Steaks

• Generously coat each steak in seasoned flour
• Dunk completely into buttermilk-egg bath
• Roll again in flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a crunchy armor

Let steaks rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes to lock in that delicious coating

Step 3: Sizzle to Golden Perfection

• Vegetable oil
• Butter

Heat until oil reaches a sizzling 350°F

Fry steaks individually, creating a gorgeous golden-brown crust

• Cook 3-4 minutes per side
• Transfer to paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil

Step 4: Whip Up Heavenly Country Gravy

• Keep 2 tablespoons of pan drippings
• Sprinkle in flour and whisk until golden
• Slowly pour milk, whisking constantly
• Season with salt, pepper, and paprika

Simmer until gravy reaches silky smooth perfection

Step 5: Southern Comfort on a Plate

• Drench crispy steaks in warm, luxurious gravy
• Serve alongside classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes
• Add buttery biscuits or fresh green beans

Get ready for a mouthwatering Southern feast that’ll make taste buds dance!

Helpful Tips For Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak

• Maximize Coating Crispiness: Let coated steaks rest for 10 minutes to help the breading adhere better and create an extra-crunchy exterior that won't fall off during frying.
• Control Oil Temperature: Maintain oil around 350F for perfect golden-brown results without burning the coating or leaving the meat undercooked.
• Prevent Soggy Breading: Use a wire rack when resting coated steaks to keep the bottom of the coating crisp and prevent moisture buildup.
• Gravy Smoothness Trick: Whisk flour and drippings constantly to prevent lumps, ensuring a silky, creamy country gravy that complements the crispy steak.
• Lean Meat Modification: Choose cube steak with less fat for a lighter version, but remember that some fat helps create the classic tender texture and rich flavor.

Best Way To Store Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak

• Refrigerate leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Wrap each piece individually in aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and maintain crispy coating.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes to restore crunchiness, avoiding the microwave which can make the breading soggy.
• Freeze cooked steaks for maximum 2 months by placing them in freezer-safe containers with parchment paper between each piece to prevent sticking.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• When reheating frozen steaks, add extra time in the oven and check internal temperature reaches 165F for food safety.
• Pro tip: Keep gravy separate during storage to prevent breading from becoming mushy, storing it in a separate sealed container in the refrigerator.

What Goes Best With Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak

• Craft Complementary Beverage Pairings: A crisp, cold beer like an amber ale perfectly cuts through the rich, crispy chicken fried steak's heaviness. Alternatively, a robust red wine such as zinfandel brings out the deep, savory flavors of the dish.
• Design Hearty Side Dish Companions: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a silky texture that balances the crunchy steak coating. Southern-style green beans with bacon bits add a tangy, smoky counterpoint to the meal's richness.
• Select Flavor-Enhancing Condiments: Homemade buttermilk ranch dressing offers a cool, tangy complement to the spicy, crispy steak. Pickled jalapeños can add a zesty kick that brightens the entire plate and cuts through the heavy gravy.
• Build Classic Southern Breakfast Option: Transform leftovers into a killer breakfast by topping the chicken fried steak with a sunny-side-up egg and serving alongside fluffy buttermilk biscuits for a true Southern morning feast.

Tasty Takes On Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak

• Spicy Southwest Crunch: Swap cayenne for chipotle powder and add crushed tortilla chips to the flour coating for extra heat and texture.
• Mediterranean Herb Version: Mix dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary into the flour mixture, replacing traditional seasonings with Mediterranean-inspired herbs.
• Gluten-Free Ranch Style: Use gluten-free flour blend and add ranch seasoning mix to the coating for a tangy, crispy alternative.
• Buttermilk Cornmeal Crisp: Incorporate cornmeal into the flour mixture for an extra crunchy exterior that adds rustic Southern charm to the classic recipe.

FAQs For Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak

• What makes this Chicken Fried Steak special?

The secret is in the double-dredging technique that creates an incredibly crispy, flavorful coating. By dipping the steak in seasoned flour, then buttermilk-egg mixture, and coating again with flour, you’ll get an extra crunchy exterior that’s packed with spices like paprika and cayenne.

• Can I use a different cut of meat?

Cube steak is traditional, but you can use tenderized round steak or sirloin if needed. The key is to use a thin, tenderized cut that will cook quickly and become wonderfully crisp when fried.

• How do I know the oil is hot enough for frying?

Use a thermometer to check that the oil reaches 350F. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of bread into the oil – if it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready for frying.

• Why do I need to let the coated steaks rest before frying?

Resting allows the coating to set and stick to the meat, preventing it from falling off during frying. This 10-minute rest ensures a perfect, crispy crust that won’t slide right off your steak.

Pioneer Woman Chicken Fried Steak Recipe

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4.6 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty Southern comfort calls with Pioneer Woman’s chicken fried steak, delivering crispy golden perfection that celebrates rustic American cuisine. Generous portions and rich country gravy promise a satisfying meal that connects culinary tradition with pure deliciousness you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 cube steaks (tenderized beef steaks)

Coating and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 teaspoons paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

Cooking and Gravy Ingredients:

• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

1. Craft a flavorful seasoning blend by combining flour with an aromatic mix of spices, creating a complex dry coating that will enhance the meat’s texture and taste.
2. Prepare a wet mixture using eggs and buttermilk, whisking in hot sauce to introduce a subtle kick of heat and depth to the breading process.
3. Methodically coat each cube steak by first dusting with the seasoned flour, ensuring complete coverage and shaking off any excess to prevent clumping.
4. Immerse the floured steak into the liquid mixture, allowing the egg and buttermilk to create a sticky surface that will help the final flour layer adhere perfectly.
5. Return the steak to the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to create a thick, textured crust that will deliver maximum crispiness when fried.
6. Allow the coated steaks to rest momentarily, which helps the breading set and reduces the likelihood of it separating during cooking.
7. Heat oil in a heavy skillet, incorporating a pat of butter to enhance flavor and promote beautiful golden browning.
8. Carefully lower the steaks into the hot oil, cooking each side until a rich, amber crust forms and the meat is thoroughly cooked.
9. Remove the steaks and drain on absorbent paper to eliminate excess oil while maintaining their crisp exterior.
10. Transform the cooking pan’s remnants into a luxurious gravy by whisking flour into the remaining drippings, creating a roux with deep flavor.
11. Gradually introduce milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, velvety consistency.
12. Season the gravy with additional spices, allowing it to simmer and thicken into a rich, comforting sauce.
13. Lavish the crispy steaks with the warm gravy and serve alongside classic Southern accompaniments for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Notes

• Select cube steaks with minimal fat for a crispier exterior and more even cooking.
• Pound the steaks gently to tenderize and create a uniform thickness, helping the coating adhere perfectly.
• Let the coated steaks rest before frying to prevent the breading from falling off during cooking.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for superior heat distribution and an extra crispy, golden-brown crust.
• Control oil temperature carefully to avoid burning the coating while ensuring the meat cooks through.
• Modify the recipe for gluten-free diets by using alternative flour like rice or almond flour.
• Reduce spiciness by cutting back on cayenne pepper or omitting it entirely for sensitive palates.
• Make a lighter version by baking instead of frying, using a wire rack and preheated oven at 425F.
• Create a leaner gravy by using low-fat milk and skimming excess oil from pan drippings.
• Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour coating for depth.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 45 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 25 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg