Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak

Whip up this Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak copycat recipe for a comfort food classic that’s easy, ready in 30 minutes, and delivers restaurant-quality taste right at home. Each piece is crispy, golden, and smothered in creamy sawmill gravy, making it a family favorite for a hearty, homestyle meal.

This recipe is simpler than you might think, using familiar ingredients and a quick prep method. Whether you’re looking for a weekend indulgence or a family-pleasing dinner, this dish has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: No need for a grocery run—you likely already have most of these pantry staples.
• Quick to Make: Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• No Fancy Gadgets: A good ol’ skillet or frying pan is all you need to create that signature crispy coating.
• Full of Flavor: The saltine cracker breading, paired with a touch of cayenne and creamy gravy, creates the perfect balance of crispy, tender, and savory.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love this meal, and it feels like a treat for everyone at the table.

Ingredients

The full printable recipe card with measurements and instructions is found at the bottom of the post.

• Cube Steaks: Tenderized cuts of beef that fry up beautifully and soak up all the flavor.
• Saltine Crackers: Crushed crackers add a perfectly crispy coating. We call them soda crackers in Canada.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that pack a punch.
• Cayenne Pepper: A little kick to balance the richness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps the breading stick and makes the gravy.
• Buttermilk: Adds tangy flavor and helps the breading cling to the steak.
• Oil for Frying: Gives the steaks that gorgeous golden crust.
• Milk: The base for the creamy, dreamy gravy.

How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak

Follow along to learn how to make Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Steak!

• Step One: In a bowl, stir the crushed crackers, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper and 1 cup of flour.
• Step Two: In another dish, place the buttermilk and cube steaks.
• Step Three: Coat the cube steaks in the cracker flour mixture and place them back into the buttermilk.
• Step Four: Place the steaks in the cracker mixture again and set aside.
• Step Five: Heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat in a large, deep skillet.
• Step Six: Once the oil is hot, add the steaks. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
• Step Seven: Fry the steaks for 3 to 5 minutes per side until each side is golden brown and crispy.
• Step Eight: Place on paper towels to drain off any extra oil.

• Step Nine: In the same skillet, discard all but two tablespoons of the oil.
• Step Ten: Whisk two tablespoons of the flour into the oil.
• Step Eleven: Slowly whisk in the milk and bring the mixture to a simmer while whisking. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes or until thickened.
• Step Twelve: Add the salt and pepper to taste. Serve over the chicken fried steak.

What to Serve with It

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This dish is all about the sides! Here are some classic pairings:

• Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up all that creamy gravy. Try this mashed potato casserole.
• Green Beans: A fresh, simple veggie to balance the meal.
• Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, it’s a great contrast to the savory steak. Try this Southern Corn Cake.
• Coleslaw: Crisp and tangy, it adds a refreshing crunch. Try this chipotle coleslaw.
• Biscuits: Soft, buttery, and ideal for sopping up every last drop of gravy. Try sour cream biscuits.
• Fried Apples: A sweet, caramelized treat that pairs beautifully with the steak. Try Cracker Barrel Fried Apples.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the Meat: Try thinly sliced sirloin or chicken instead of cube steak.
• Milk Alternatives: Use almond milk, regular milk, or a yogurt-water mix if you’re out of buttermilk.
• Spice it Up: Add smoked paprika or garlic powder to the breading for extra flavor.
• Different Gravy: Switch to chicken broth or add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Place leftover chicken fried steak in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the gravy in a separate container to maintain the crispiness of the steak.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap each steak tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Store the gravy in a freezer-safe container as well. The steak can be frozen for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat

• For the Steak: To keep it crispy, reheat the steak in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This prevents it from getting soggy.
• For the Gravy: Reheat the gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk to loosen it if it’s too thick.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Get Crispy Coating: The key is in the crushed saltines! They stick perfectly to the steak and create that signature crunch.
• Fry at the Right Temp: Heat your oil to 360°F for a golden crust without being greasy.
• Use Buttermilk: It tenderizes the steak and helps the breading adhere.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the steak sit for a few minutes after frying to keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Reheat for Crispiness: Use an air fryer or oven to reheat leftovers to keep the crust crispy.

What is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is a tenderized cut of beef, often from the round or sirloin. It has a distinctive texture that holds breading well, making it perfect for frying.

Can I Use Chicken Instead?

Absolutely! Use flattened chicken breasts or thighs and follow the same steps. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.

Copycat Recipes

• Copycat Orange Julius
• Copycat McDonald’s Sausage Egg McMuffins
• Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rolls
• Copycat Texas Roadhouse Cinnamon Butter

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