chicken fried steak recipe texas
The Best chicken fried steak recipe texas
This recipe for chicken-fried steak has been a staple in our house for years, and there’s a reason it holds a special place in my heart. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home—comforting, hearty, and just a little bit indulgent without ever feeling like a waste. I grew up eating it at family gatherings, and now my kids ask for it every time they come over, whether it’s for a weekend dinner or a quick weeknight meal. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours of prep, but it still tastes like love when you make it right. Plus, the way the tender steak melts into the creamy gravy and gets dusted with crispy breadcrumbs? It’s pure satisfaction.
What makes this recipe so versatile is how well it works for different occasions. It’s perfect for a Sunday dinner when the family is together, or for a weeknight when everyone is tired but still wants something flavorful. My kids love it because it’s familiar and satisfying, and it’s easy enough that even picky eaters usually give it a try. The health benefits are also a nice bonus—lean protein from the steak, fiber from the vegetables, and a little extra nutrition from the whole wheat breadcrumbs. It’s not just a meal; it’s something that brings people together, and that’s what really matters. Plus, there’s something comforting about knowing you can make something this good with ingredients you already have in the pantry.

Texas-Style Chicken Fried Steak
A hearty, crispy dish featuring tender steak coated in a rich, buttery dough and baked to perfection, served with a tangy tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a classic Texas-style meal!
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank steak or sirloin
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Season steak generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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2 In one bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the egg lightly.
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3 Dredge steak in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with panko mixed with melted butter. Place on a baking sheet.
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4 Bake for 20 minutes, then flip and bake for another 20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (145°F internal temp).
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5 While steak bakes, prepare the sauce by whisking tomato sauce, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper together.
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6 Once steak is done, pour the sauce over it and let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors. Serve hot!
🔧Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Texas-Style Chicken Fried Steak Works
This Texas-style chicken fried steak recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make ahead. It holds up well on plates and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or cornbread, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion. Plus, it’s comforting in a way that feels like home, so it never fails to bring people together.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Texas-Style Chicken Fried Steak
What is the key difference between Texas-style Chicken Fried Steak and traditional Chicken Fried Steak?
Texas-style Chicken Fried Steak is typically made with a thicker cut of beef, often a chuck roast or a short rib, which is then dredged in a crispy breading and pan-fried until golden and tender. It’s often served with a creamy, buttery gravy that’s rich and slightly sweet, sometimes incorporating a touch of Worcestershire sauce. The dish is often paired with mashed potatoes, collard greens, and a fried egg on top, creating a hearty, Southern-style meal.
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How do I achieve the perfect crispy breading for Texas-style Chicken Fried Steak?
For the best crispy breading, use a mix of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and a bit of baking powder (about 1 tsp per cup of flour) to help create a light, airy texture. Coat the steak thoroughly in the dry breading mixture, shaking off any excess, and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before frying. Heat your oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C) and fry the steak in batches for 4–6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep it crispy.
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How do I make the creamy, buttery gravy for Texas-style Chicken Fried Steak?
Start by melting 2 tbsp of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour and whisk to form a smooth paste. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth or beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the gravy thickens slightly. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tsp of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra richness, add a splash of milk or cream if needed. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
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Can I make Texas-style Chicken Fried Steak ahead of time and reheat it properly?
Yes, you can prepare the steak ahead of time, but reheating it correctly is key to maintaining its crispiness. Cook the steak fresh and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the steak in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat and cover with a lid for 3–4 minutes, flipping halfway. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, brushing with a little melted butter or gravy to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
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What are some common variations or substitutions for the traditional Texas-style Chicken Fried Steak?
While the classic version uses beef, many variations include pork chops, chicken, or even turkey. For a Southern twist, some cooks use a mix of pork and beef or substitute the steak with a pulled pork sandwich. Vegetarian versions might use portobello mushrooms or tofu, coated in the same breading and fried until crispy. Another popular variation is adding a fried egg on top of the steak before serving, which is a hallmark of many Texas-style dishes. Some also include a side of sweet potato fries or cornbread for extra flavor.
