How to Cook Frozen Chicken Fried Steak Like a Pro (Easy Guide!)

Have you ever discovered a package of frozen chicken fried steaks hiding in the back of your freezer and wondered how to make them actually taste good? I’ve been there! After some disappointing results following package directions (we’ve all been there!) I’ve learned some tricks to transform these frozen convenience foods into something you’d actually want to eat.

Let me share my best tips for cooking frozen chicken fried steak that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and downright delicious.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather our supplies:

• Frozen chicken fried steaks
• Cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut work great)
• Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
• Tongs
• Paper towels
• Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
• Gravy (homemade or store-bought)

The Problem with Package Directions

Most of the time, the directions on frozen chicken fried steak packages don’t work out as planned. Most of the time, they say to bake them in the oven, but the breading can get soggy and the meat can be tough. Not exactly what we’re aiming for!.

One angry cook in an Appalachian Foods and Recipes group said, “I found some frozen chicken fried steaks in the freezer that weren’t very good when cooked as directed.” This happens a lot because the directions on the package often put ease of use ahead of quality.

Method 1: Pan-Frying for Best Results

Pan-frying is the best way to get that authentically crispy outside that makes chicken fried steak so tasty:

1. Thaw slightly: Let your steaks sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes (not fully thawed, just less frozen)

2. Heat the oil: Put about 1/4 inch of oil in the pan and heat it over medium-high heat until it shimmers. If you have a thermometer, this should be around 350°F.

3. Fry in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook 2-3 pieces at a time, depending on your skillet size

4. Cook thoroughly: Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, adjusting heat as needed

5. Check temperature: The internal temp should reach 165°F for food safety

6. Drain: Place on paper towels to remove excess oil

7. Keep warm: If cooking multiple batches, keep finished steaks warm in a 200°F oven

Method 2: Oven Method (Improved Version)

If you prefer to use your oven, here’s how to get better results than the package directions:

1. Preheat properly: Set your oven to 425°F and allow it to fully preheat

2. Prep your steaks: Lightly brush or spray both sides with oil

3. Use a rack: Place steaks on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet (this allows air to circulate underneath)

4. Bake hot and fast: Cook for approximately 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through

5. Broil finish: For extra crispiness, broil for the final 1-2 minutes (watch carefully!)

Method 3: Air Fryer Magic

If you’ve got an air fryer, you’re in luck! This might be the easiest method with great results:

1. Preheat: Set your air fryer to 400°F

2. Prep steaks: Lightly spray both sides with oil

3. Don’t overcrowd: Place in a single layer with space between pieces

4. Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through

5. Check doneness: The exterior should be golden and crispy

Making the Perfect Gravy

No chicken fried steak is complete without gravy! Here’s a quick recipe:

1. Save those drippings: If you pan-fried your steaks, keep 2 tablespoons of the oil in the pan

2. Make a roux: Add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk until golden (about 2 minutes)

3. Add liquid: Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk or 1.5 cups milk and 1/2 cup chicken broth, whisking constantly

4. Season: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder

5. Simmer: Cook, stirring frequently, until thickened (3-5 minutes)

For a shortcut, you can also use packet gravy mixes or jarred gravy – just doctor them up with extra pepper!

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Soggy Breading

This is the most common complaint with frozen chicken fried steaks. To fix:

• Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding steaks
• Don’t crowd the pan (moisture gets trapped)
• Drain well on paper towels

Tough, Chewy Meat

If your steaks turn out tough:

• You might be overcooking them
• Try using a meat tenderizer before cooking
• Let them rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking

Breading Falls Off

To keep the breading intact:

• Don’t flip too early or too often
• Use tongs rather than forks which can pierce the coating
• Make sure oil is hot enough before adding steaks

Serving Suggestions

Turn your frozen chicken fried steak into a complete meal with these sides:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered corn or green beans
• Fresh buttermilk biscuits
• Simple side salad
• Mac and cheese for the kids

Healthier Options

If you’re watching your calories but still want to enjoy chicken fried steak:

• Use an air fryer (requires much less oil)
• Make a lighter gravy using low-fat milk
• Serve with extra veggies instead of heavy sides
• Consider portion control (half a steak with extra sides)

When to Splurge vs. When to Save

Frozen chicken fried steaks can be a budget-friendly option for quick meals. But if you’re hosting a special dinner, you might want to make chicken fried steak from scratch.

For everyday meals, brands like COOK offer quality frozen options that can be prepared at home. Just remember that the cooking method makes all the difference!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you’ve got leftovers:

• Refrigerate promptly in airtight containers (up to 3 days)
• Freeze leftovers separately from gravy (up to 2 months)
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes for best texture
• Avoid microwaving if possible (makes breading soggy)

My Personal Experience

I’ll be honest – I’ve had some truly terrible frozen chicken fried steaks in my day! The worst was when I followed the package directions exactly and ended up with something that resembled a soggy cardboard cutlet. But after experimenting with different cooking methods, I’ve found that these convenience foods can actually be pretty darn good.

The key differences I’ve noticed:

1. Pan-frying creates a much crispier exterior than oven baking
2. Taking the time to make real gravy elevates the entire dish
3. Letting the steaks thaw slightly before cooking improves texture
4. The quality of the frozen product matters – some brands are definitely better than others!

Final Thoughts

Cooking frozen chicken fried steak doesn’t have to result in disappointment! With the right techniques, you can transform this freezer staple into a satisfying meal your family will actually enjoy. Remember, the cooking method matters more than the package directions.

Whether you choose to pan-fry, bake, or air fry, focus on getting that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Add some homemade gravy and your favorite sides, and you’ve got a comfort food dinner that didn’t take all day to prepare.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I cook frozen chicken fried steak without thawing?
A: Yes, but the results will be better if you let them thaw slightly (10-15 minutes) at room temperature first.

Q: How do I know when my chicken fried steak is done?
A: The safest way is using a meat thermometer to reach 165°F. Visually, the breading should be golden brown and crispy.

Q: Can I make these in an Instant Pot?
A: I wouldn’t recommend it. The moist environment of pressure cooking will make the breading soggy.

Q: What’s the difference between country fried steak and chicken fried steak?
A: They’re similar, but chicken fried steak typically has a crispier coating (like fried chicken) and is served with white gravy, while country fried steak often has a lighter breading and brown gravy.

Q: Are frozen chicken fried steaks pre-cooked?
A: Most are partially cooked, but always cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Now you’re all set to turn those forgotten freezer finds into a delicious dinner! Enjoy!