If you’re craving the ultimate Southern comfort food, look no further than Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak. This dish delivers everything you want: irresistibly crunchy golden crust, tender cube steak, and a touch of nostalgia in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together and leaves everyone grinning, whether you’re serving it up for a hearty weeknight dinner or as the star of a cozy Sunday supper. You’ll delight in the way the buttermilk bath and double dredge create that signature crispy coating, making this a recipe you’ll turn to time after time.

Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is how it transforms simple pantry staples into something extraordinary. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth of flavor, a crisp texture, or that tantalizing color that makes your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak shine.

Cube steaks: These tenderized cuts are the heart of the dish, giving rich, beefy flavor and quick cooking.
Buttermilk: Adds tang, tenderizes the meat, and ensures the breading sticks beautifully.
Large eggs: Help create a luscious, velvety coating that binds the breading to the steak.
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crispy crust, gaining color and crunch when fried.
Baking powder: A tiny boost of leavening for exceptional lightness in the crust.
Paprika: Adds earthy warmth and enhances that gorgeous golden color.
Garlic powder: Lends subtle savory depth that complements the steak.
Onion powder: Boosts flavor with just the right note of sweetness and earthiness.
Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors—don’t skip it!
Black pepper: A little heat and brightness to season every bite.
Vegetable oil for frying: Neutral flavor and high smoke point make it perfect for crisping without overpowering.

How to Make Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Buttermilk Mixture

Start by grabbing a shallow bowl and whisking together your buttermilk and eggs until smooth and even. This tangy, creamy mix is the secret to a tender steak and juicy interior once cooked. Set it aside while you get the dredge ready—it’s about to become the key to that trademark crispiness!

Step 2: Make the Seasoned Flour Dredge

In a separate bowl, mix your flour with baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well so every bit of steak will get an even dusting of flavor and those lovely hints of color. This blend is what puts the “Crispy” in Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak.

Step 3: Double Dredge for Extra Crunch

Dip each cube steak first into the buttermilk mixture, then transfer to the flour dredge. Here’s the trick: repeat the process, dipping once more into the buttermilk, then back into the flour for a second coat. This double layer locks in juiciness and delivers a supremely crunchy bite that just might become your new standard.

Step 4: Let the Coating Rest

Arrange the coated steaks on a plate and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes. While it may be tempting to fry them up right away, this short rest allows the breading to adhere firmly, preventing any dreaded “slip-off” when you start to fry. This small pause pays big crispy dividends.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers or reaches 350°F. Carefully add the steaks in batches, frying each side for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re deeply golden and audibly crispy. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate so any extra oil can drain off, leaving the coating light and perfect.

How to Serve Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak

Garnishes

Give your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak a flourish by spooning on a generous helping of creamy white gravy, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or a pinch of cracked black pepper. Sometimes, a simple garnish is all you need to take it from good to show-stopping.

Side Dishes

The classic pairing is a mountain of fluffy mashed potatoes, ready to soak up every drop of gravy. For a complete Southern feast, add tender green beans or buttery sweet corn—these sides harmonize with the savory steak for a meal that satisfies every craving.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your usual dinner into something memorable by slicing the steak into strips to make sliders, topping with slaw and serving with pickles, or even laying it atop a fresh green salad for crunchy contrast. However you plate it, Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak always steals the spotlight!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with leftover Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak, let it cool to room temperature, then wrap the steaks tightly or place them in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay tasty for up to three days—if you can resist them that long!

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooked and cooled steaks in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then wrap each steak individually and store in a freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months, making them perfect for fast comfort food any time.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps the coating as crisp as possible. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to soften that beautiful golden crust you worked so hard to create!

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cube steak is traditional for Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak thanks to its tenderness, you can use top round or sirloin pounded thin if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it necessary to double dredge the steaks?

If you want that ultra-crispy, picture-perfect crust, double dredging is the way to go. It’s a small extra step that pays off with every bite!

What’s the best oil for frying?

Stick with a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. They have high smoke points, ensuring your steaks fry evenly and develop that signature crunch without any off flavors.

Can I make Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak gluten-free?

You can! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just check that your baking powder and seasonings are gluten-free as well.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Letting the coated steaks rest before frying and ensuring your oil is at the right temperature are key. The rest time helps the coating adhere, and hot oil immediately sets the crust for a perfect finish.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the crunch and comfort of homemade Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Fried Steak. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or tasting it for the very first time, this recipe is guaranteed to leave you smiling and satisfied. Give it a try and see how quickly it becomes a cherished staple in your kitchen!