Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak: Crispy, Juicy & Smothered in Gravy

Cracker Barrel’s Chicken Fried Steak is a beloved Southern comfort food that’s become a staple for many.

This dish, with its perfectly crispy exterior and tender, juicy steak on the inside, is the epitome of down-home cooking.

When you think of hearty, flavorful meals that warm the soul, chicken fried steak immediately comes to mind.

Served with rich, creamy white gravy, this dish offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that are sure to please anyone’s palate.

Whether you’re looking to recreate your favorite restaurant meal at home or you’re trying chicken fried steak for the first time, this recipe will guide you through every step to ensure you get that perfect Cracker Barrel-style dish.

Let’s dive into the details of what makes this comfort food so irresistible!

What is Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken Fried Steak is a Southern classic that combines two of the most delicious things in the world: crispy, fried food and tender beef.

Despite its name, there’s no chicken involved in this dish! The “chicken fried” part refers to the method of cooking—similar to how fried chicken is prepared.

The base of the dish is typically a tenderized cut of beef, often cube steak, which is coated in seasoned flour and then deep-fried until golden and crispy.

This creates a savory, crunchy crust that perfectly contrasts with the soft and juicy meat inside.

It’s then traditionally topped with a creamy, savory gravy made from the pan drippings, flour, and milk, creating a rich sauce that enhances every bite.

Chicken Fried Steak has roots in the Southern United States, where it’s often enjoyed with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, corn, or green beans.

While it’s been around for generations, this hearty dish continues to be a favorite in Southern homes and across the country, often associated with comfort, nostalgia, and family gatherings.

It’s no wonder that Cracker Barrel, a restaurant known for its comforting homestyle meals, serves up one of the most popular versions of this beloved dish.

If you’ve ever had the chance to enjoy it there, you know how satisfying the combination of crispy steak and creamy gravy can be—now, you can recreate that experience in your own kitchen!

Ingredients Needed for Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak

To create the perfect Cracker Barrel-style chicken fried steak, you’ll need a few key ingredients that will help you achieve the crispy, flavorful coating and creamy gravy that make this dish so special.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

For the Chicken Fried Steak:

• Cube steak (or tenderized round steak): This is the most common cut used for chicken fried steak. It’s affordable and tender when cooked properly, making it ideal for frying.
• All-purpose flour: Used for both the breading and to create the roux for the gravy.
• Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the flour helps create a crispier, crunchier crust.
• Baking powder: A pinch of baking powder helps lighten the breading, ensuring it’s crispy and not too dense.
• Salt & black pepper: For seasoning the flour and steak, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and depth to the coating.
• Garlic powder: A subtle flavor boost for the breading.
• Eggs: Used for the egg wash to help the breading stick to the steak.
• Buttermilk: Adds tang and helps tenderize the meat. Buttermilk also contributes to the flavor of the breading.
• Vegetable oil (or peanut oil): For frying the steak to golden perfection. You’ll need enough to submerge the steak for a deep-frying effect.

For the Gravy:

• Pan drippings: After frying the steak, the leftover drippings in the pan will provide the rich base for the gravy.
• All-purpose flour: To make a roux with the pan drippings, which thickens the gravy.
• Whole milk: Creates a creamy base for the gravy.
• Salt & pepper: For seasoning the gravy and balancing out the richness.
• Garlic powder (optional): Adds a little extra flavor to the gravy, though it’s not essential.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to recreate the mouthwatering Cracker Barrel chicken fried steak at home!

How to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak: Step-by-Step

Making Cracker Barrel-style chicken fried steak at home is a rewarding process that results in a dish that’s crispy, tender, and absolutely delicious.

Follow these easy-to-follow steps for perfect chicken fried steak with gravy:

Step 1: Preparing the Steak

Start by prepping the cube steak. If you’re using store-bought cube steak, it’s typically already tenderized, but you can tenderize it further by gently pounding it with a meat mallet.

This step is crucial for ensuring the steak becomes nice and tender during the frying process.

Once tenderized, season both sides of the steak generously with salt and black pepper.

This will provide a savory base flavor that will complement the crispy coating.

Step 2: Breading the Chicken Fried Steak

To bread the steak, set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:

1. Flour and Seasonings: In the first bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   This mixture will coat the steak and give it a crispy outer layer.
2. Egg Wash: In the second bowl, beat together eggs and buttermilk.
   This mixture will help the dry ingredients adhere to the steak.
3. Additional Flour: Place a small amount of additional flour in a third bowl or on a plate to give the steak a second coating before frying.

Now, take each seasoned steak and dip it into the flour mixture first, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Next, dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.

Finally, coat it again with the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks well.

Step 3: Frying the Steak

Heat vegetable oil (or peanut oil) in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat.

You’ll need enough oil to submerge the steak halfway—about 1 to 2 inches deep.

The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). You can check the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Carefully add the breaded steaks to the hot oil, cooking them in batches if necessary.

Fry the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the oil temperature to drop and affect the crispiness of the breading.

Once cooked, transfer the chicken fried steaks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Making the Gravy

Using the same pan, remove most of the leftover oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat and sprinkle in the flour.

Stir the flour into the drippings to form a roux. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, allowing it to turn golden brown and develop flavor.

Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.

Continue to cook the gravy, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your desired consistency—about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder if you like.

Step 5: Serving the Dish

Once the steak is fried and the gravy is ready, serve the chicken fried steak with a generous spoonful of gravy on top.

For the full Cracker Barrel experience, pair the dish with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread.

How to Make Cracker Barrel-Style Creamy Gravy

No chicken fried steak is complete without a rich and creamy gravy to pour over it.

The secret to the perfect Cracker Barrel-style gravy lies in using the flavorful pan drippings left from frying the steak.

Here’s how to make that creamy, savory gravy that will elevate your chicken fried steak to new heights:

Step 1: Using the Pan Drippings

After frying the chicken fried steaks, you’ll have delicious golden-brown drippings left in the skillet.

These drippings are packed with flavor, and they will serve as the base for your gravy.

Be sure to leave about 2 tablespoons of the oil and drippings in the pan after removing the steaks.

This will ensure your gravy has that rich, savory flavor.

Step 2: Making the Roux

Place the skillet with the pan drippings over medium heat and add the flour.

Stir the mixture continuously to create a smooth paste (this is called a roux). Let it cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to toast slightly.

This step helps deepen the flavor of the gravy and removes the raw taste of the flour.

Step 3: Adding Milk

Once the roux is ready, slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming.

It’s important to add the milk gradually and keep whisking so the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 4: Seasoning the Gravy

As the gravy thickens, add salt and black pepper to taste.

You can also add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper if you want to spice it up a bit.

Continue to cook and stir for another 3-5 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.

If it gets too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the gravy has thickened and become creamy, taste it one last time and adjust the seasoning if needed.

You should have a smooth, silky gravy that is rich in flavor and perfect for drizzling over the crispy chicken fried steak.

The beauty of this gravy is in its simplicity and the depth of flavor created from the pan drippings.

It’s the kind of gravy that makes every bite of your chicken fried steak even more irresistible.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Fried Steak

While chicken fried steak is delicious on its own, it’s even better when paired with some tasty side dishes.

The right sides can enhance the dish and make for a well-rounded meal.

Here are some great serving suggestions for your chicken fried steak:

Classic Mashed Potatoes

No Southern meal is complete without a side of creamy mashed potatoes.

The velvety texture of the potatoes complements the crispy steak and absorbs the delicious gravy, making it a perfect match.

You can opt for mashed potatoes with butter, cream, and a hint of garlic for extra flavor.

Crispy Fried Green Beans

Fried green beans offer a nice crunchy contrast to the soft steak and creamy mashed potatoes.

You can coat the green beans in a light batter and fry them until crispy, just like you would with onion rings, to add some texture and flavor to your meal.

Cornbread or Biscuits

Pair your chicken fried steak with a side of warm, buttery cornbread or soft biscuits.

Both options add a comforting element to the dish, and they’re perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy.

You can even serve the gravy over the cornbread for an extra indulgent experience!

Collard Greens or Green Beans

For a more traditional Southern side, serve your chicken fried steak with collard greens or green beans.

These vegetables provide a savory, slightly bitter contrast to the richness of the steak and gravy, balancing out the flavors.

Cook them with a bit of smoked ham or bacon for added depth.

Sweet Potato Fries or Baked Sweet Potatoes

If you’re craving something with a bit of sweetness, opt for sweet potato fries or a baked sweet potato on the side.

The natural sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory steak and gravy perfectly.

Coleslaw

A light, tangy coleslaw can help balance the richness of the chicken fried steak.

The crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing add a fresh, refreshing contrast to the fried steak, making for a well-rounded plate.

Corn on the Cob

If you’re in the mood for something classic, corn on the cob is another great option.

Whether boiled or grilled, the sweet, juicy kernels provide a satisfying contrast to the savory elements of the meal.

Pickles or Fried Pickles

For a little extra crunch and tang, serve fried pickles or regular pickle slices on the side.

The acidity from the pickles helps cut through the richness of the steak and gravy, adding a pop of flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you’ve made a large batch of Cracker Barrel-style chicken fried steak and have leftovers, you’ll want to know the best way to store and reheat them to maintain their flavor and texture.

Here’s how you can do it:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken fried steak and gravy to cool to room temperature before storing them.

Once cooled, transfer the steak to an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap.

It’s important to store the gravy separately in another container to keep the texture from becoming too thick or lumpy.

Store the leftover chicken fried steak and gravy in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to consume the leftovers within this time frame to ensure the best quality.

Reheating Leftovers

There are a few ways to reheat chicken fried steak and gravy while maintaining the crispy texture of the steak and the smoothness of the gravy:

For the Steak:

To reheat the steak and keep it crispy, use a conventional oven or a toaster oven.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate around it.

Heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s hot and crispy again.

Alternatively, you can reheat the steak in a skillet over medium heat.

Add a little oil to the pan and heat the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, flipping carefully to avoid damaging the breading.

For the Gravy:

To reheat the gravy, place it in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk to help thin it out if it has thickened too much.

Heat it gently, making sure it doesn’t scorch or separate.

You can also reheat the gravy in the microwave, heating it in 30-second intervals while stirring to ensure it heats evenly.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel’s chicken fried steak is a dish that brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of Southern hospitality to any meal.

With a crispy, golden coating, tender steak, and creamy gravy, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty dinner or serving it to family and friends, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

By following the simple steps and using the right ingredients, you can recreate the classic Cracker Barrel experience in your own kitchen.

Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and gravy for a truly indulgent meal.

And with the tips on storing and reheating leftovers, you’ll be able to enjoy this delicious dish for days to come.

So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and treat yourself to a homemade version of this Southern classic!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for chicken fried steak?

Yes, while cube steak is the most traditional cut, you can also use round steak or sirloin steak.

Just make sure the steak is tenderized to ensure it cooks properly and stays juicy.

2. Can I make chicken fried steak ahead of time?

You can prepare the breaded steaks ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry.

However, it’s best to fry the steaks just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.

The gravy can be made in advance and stored separately in the refrigerator.

3. How can I make the gravy thicker?

If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few more minutes or adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Can I make chicken fried steak without frying it?

While frying is the traditional method, you can try baking the breaded steaks at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.

However, the texture won’t be quite as crispy as frying.

5. How do I make my breading extra crispy?

To achieve an extra crispy crust, use a combination of flour and cornstarch in your breading mixture, and make sure your oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C).

The hot oil will fry the breading quickly, creating a crispy texture.

Additionally, double-coating the steak (dipping it in the flour, then the egg wash, then the flour again) helps create a thicker, crispier crust.