Texas Roadhouse Chicken Fried Steak

This copycat Texas Roadhouse Chicken Fried Steak brings the heart and soul of Southern comfort food to your kitchen. With a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a rich, creamy gravy topping, this dish is perfect for a hearty dinner or brunch. It’s crispy, tender, and packed with flavor—just like the beloved restaurant version.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Fried Steak is the epitome of Southern comfort food. The crispy, seasoned coating on the steak creates the perfect contrast to the tender meat inside. Paired with the rich, creamy gravy, this dish is an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special brunch, this easy-to-follow recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to recreate the taste of your favorite Texas Roadhouse meal right at home.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fried Steak:

• 1 ½ pounds tenderized cube steak

• Oil for frying

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup saltine crackers, crushed

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• 2 teaspoons black pepper

• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Gravy:

• 4 tablespoons butter

• ¼ cup flour

• 2 cups milk

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dredging Station: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, crushed saltine crackers, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, pour in the buttermilk.

2. Coat the Steak: Dip the cube steaks into the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip the steaks into the buttermilk. Shake off the excess buttermilk, and dredge the steaks back into the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat thoroughly. Place the coated steaks on a baking sheet to rest.

3. Fry the Steaks: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet on medium-high heat and add enough oil for frying. Carefully add the coated cube steaks to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness.

4. Drain the Steaks: When the steaks are done, transfer them to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.

5. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, then add salt and pepper. Stir until the gravy thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

6. Serve: Pour the gravy over the crispy chicken fried steaks and serve hot!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.

• Use Different Meats: While cube steak is traditional, you can also use boneless chicken breasts or thighs for a chicken fried chicken version.

• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free crackers.

• Sautéed Veggies: For a well-rounded meal, serve your chicken fried steak with sautéed vegetables, such as green beans or mashed potatoes.

Storage/Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store the chicken fried steaks and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the steak in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the crispy coating. Reheat the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to reach the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or chicken thighs for chicken fried chicken, or even pork chops for a variation on the traditional dish.

2. How do I know when the steak is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The exterior should be golden brown and crispy.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the steak is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the steaks by breading them in advance and refrigerating them until you’re ready to fry them.

4. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove and add a bit of milk to thin it out if needed.

5. How can I make the gravy thicker?

If the gravy is too thin, continue simmering it until it thickens. You can also mix a little more flour with milk and whisk it into the gravy for added thickness.

6. What can I serve with Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken Fried Steak is often served with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, or a side salad. You can also pair it with a biscuit or cornbread for a true Southern feast.

7. Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can use a deep fryer for frying the steak. Just be sure to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F to ensure a crispy coating without overcooking the steak.

8. How do I keep the coating from falling off during frying?

Make sure the coating is pressed onto the steak well and that the oil is hot enough before adding the steaks. Don’t overcrowd the skillet to maintain the oil temperature.

9. Can I make the gravy without butter?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with oil if you’d like. This will give the gravy a different flavor but still be delicious.

10. How do I make the breading extra crispy?

For an even crispier crust, you can double dredge the steak. Coat it in the flour mixture, dip it in buttermilk again, and then coat it in the flour mixture once more before frying.

Conclusion

This Texas Roadhouse Chicken Fried Steak is the ultimate Southern comfort food. Crispy, golden steaks paired with a rich, creamy gravy make for a deliciously indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or brunch, this recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Southern cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this classic dish right in your own kitchen!

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