Classic Chicken Fried Steak Fingers Recipe

Classic chicken fried steak

Few foods feel as comforting, nostalgic, and downright irresistible as chicken fried steak fingers. These crispy, bite-sized morsels of tender steak enveloped in a perfectly seasoned crust are the ultimate Southern comfort food. Whether dipped in creamy gravy or simply enjoyed on their own, they’re a family favorite that even picky eaters devour without hesitation.

Growing up, I remember these crispy delights being the centerpiece of weekend dinners with my family. My mom would carefully fry each golden stick to perfection while we eagerly waited, forks in hand. It’s a dish that brings warmth, joy, and a sense of home—and I’m thrilled to share the recipe with you today.

If you’re ready to create a dish that will undoubtedly become a household favorite, grab your apron and let’s get started!

What Are Chicken Fried Steak Fingers?

Chicken fried steak fingers are a fun, handheld twist on the classic Southern dish, chicken fried steak. Traditionally, chicken fried steak involves a thick cut of tenderized beef, breaded and fried until golden brown. It’s usually served with a generous ladle of cream gravy and often paired with mashed potatoes or biscuits.

Chicken fried steak fingers take all the elements you love about the classic dish but transform them into smaller, easy-to-eat strips. Perfect for dipping, perfect for sharing, and perfect for little hands—they’re a practical and fun alternative that’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day snacks.

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Why Make Steak Fingers?

• Convenience: Their smaller size means faster cooking and portioning.
• Versatility: Great for meals, snacks, or parties.
• Kid-Friendly: Easier for little ones to enjoy without cutting up large portions.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you’ll need for the perfect chicken fried steak fingers, along with some suggestions for substitutions to suit your pantry or dietary needs.

Main Ingredients

• Beef Cube Steak (1 lb): The star of the dish—tenderized beef ensures a tender bite every time.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups): For the classic crust. Can be swapped with gluten-free flour if needed.
• Eggs (2 large): Helps the breading stick to the steak.
• Buttermilk (1 cup): Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the meat. Regular milk or plant-based alternatives like almond milk can be used.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder—all essential for bold, Southern flavor.

For Frying

• Vegetable Oil (2-3 cups): Provides the perfect frying environment. Peanut oil or canola oil also work well.

Optional Add-Ons

• Breadcrumbs or Panko (½ cup): For added crunch in the breading.
• Hot Sauce (2 tsp, optional): Mix into the buttermilk for a subtle kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these foolproof steps for golden, crispy chicken fried steak fingers every time!

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Take the cube steak and slice it into uniform strips, about 1 inch wide, to ensure even cooking. Pat each strip dry using a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial to help the coating stick better during the breading process.

Step 2: Create a Dredging Station

1. Set up two bowls for the dredging process.

• • • Bowl 1: Mix together 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Stir well to combine all the seasonings evenly throughout the flour.
    • Bowl 2: Whisk together 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup of buttermilk until smooth. If you like a bit of spice, add a dash or two of hot sauce to this mixture for extra flavor.

Step 3: Bread the Steak Fingers

1. Take one steak strip at a time and coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure all sides are covered.
2. Dip the floured steak strip into the buttermilk-egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
3. Return the strip to the seasoned flour for a second coat, pressing the flour onto the meat firmly with your fingers to create a good, crispy coating. Repeat for all the steak strips, and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

1. Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep frying pan until it’s about 1 inch deep—enough to submerge the steak fingers halfway. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small pinch of the flour mixture in—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough for frying.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

1. Gently place a few steak fingers into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (this helps maintain the oil temperature). Fry each piece for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and fry the other side until golden brown and cooked through. The coating should be crisp and the meat tender.
2. Once cooked, transfer the steak fingers to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining steak strips, ensuring consistent color and crispiness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the steak fingers warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or spicy ketchup. Pair them with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your homemade crispy steak fingers!

Cooking and Preparation Tips

• Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent: Use a reliable kitchen thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F. This ensures your food cooks evenly without becoming soggy or burned. If the oil gets too cool, the breading will soak up excess grease, and if it gets too hot, the crust might burn before the inside is fully cooked.
• Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier, golden crust, coat the meat in the flour mixture, dip it in milk or egg wash, and then repeat the process. This second layer creates a thicker, crunchier coating that holds up well during frying.
• Prevent Breading from Falling Off: To keep the breading firmly attached, press the flour mixture into the meat with your hands to create a solid base. Let the coated meat rest for a few minutes before frying to help the breading adhere better. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and can cause the breading to come loose.

Serving Suggestions

No chicken fried steak fingers meal is complete without the perfect sides and dips to elevate the experience. Whether you prefer sticking to the classics or experimenting with modern twists, here are some delicious ideas to serve alongside your steak fingers.

Classic Pairings

• Cream Gravy: This rich and savory dip is a must-have for traditionalists. Made from leftover pan drippings, milk, and just the right amount of seasoning, it’s the ultimate accompaniment for dunking each crispy bite.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-comforting, mashed potatoes are the ideal side dish to balance the crunch of the steak fingers. Add a drizzle of gravy on top for extra indulgence.
• Coleslaw: For a refreshing contrast, coleslaw brings a crisp, tangy crunch to the plate. The coolness of the slaw pairs perfectly with the hot, fried goodness of the steak fingers.

Modern Twists

• Spicy Aioli: For those who like a little kick, a creamy, zesty aioli can be a bold alternative to classic gravy. Mix mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce for a quick and flavorful dip.
• Loaded Fries: Why not take it up a notch? Serve your chicken fried steak fingers over a bed of crispy fries loaded with melted cheese, crumbled bacon, and a dollop of sour cream. It’s a hearty, indulgent option perfect for sharing.
• Wrap It Up: Transform your steak fingers into a portable meal by wrapping them in a soft tortilla with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, and your favorite sauce. It’s a fun, easy way to enjoy these crispy bites on the go.

No matter how you serve them, these sides and dips will take your chicken fried steak fingers to the next level, making every meal feel like a feast!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional profile for chicken fried steak fingers (per serving):

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Healthier Alternatives

• Bake Instead of Fry: Coat in oil and bake at 425°F until crispy.
• Use Gluten-Free Flour: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
• Air Fryer Option: Achieve a lighter texture with an air fryer—cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Why Not Try This Recipe Tonight?

There’s something magical about chicken fried steak fingers. They’re crispy, tender, and bursting with Southern flavor—a dish that brings people together over a shared love for comfort food. Whether you’re preparing a quick family meal or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Give it a try today, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below! Need more comforting recipes? Check out our guide to Southern Fried Chicken or Creamy Mashed Potatoes.