Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)

Why You’ll Love Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer) Recipe

This air fryer version gives you all the crunch and flavor of traditional chicken fried steak with less oil, less cleanup, and faster cooking—ideal for busy cooks. The seasoning blends right into the meat, resulting in juicy steak with a crispy crust every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 cubed steaks
2 eggs
1 ½ cups buttermilk
2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
Olive oil spray
1 cup all‑purpose flour
2 teaspoons garlic powder (divided)
2 teaspoons onion powder (divided)
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (divided)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a small container, combine 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and Cajun seasoning. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the cubed steaks.

3. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour with the remaining 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning.

4. In a second bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and hot sauce (if using).

5. Dip each seasoned cubed steak into the flour mixture, then into the egg and buttermilk mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture. Shake off any excess.

6. Generously spray both sides of the coated steaks with olive oil spray. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

7. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

8. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with gravy and your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: about 27 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for more heat.

• Gravy Options: Serve with classic white country gravy or a rich brown gravy depending on your taste.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dredge.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based milk and a splash of lemon juice for buttermilk.

• Herb Blend: Add dried thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix for an herby twist.

• Panko Crust: For extra crunch, mix in some panko breadcrumbs with the flour.

• Chicken Option: Use chicken breasts pounded thin instead of steak for a chicken variation.

• No Egg: Substitute egg with a flaxseed egg or use additional buttermilk for coating.

• Low-Sodium: Use salt-free Cajun seasoning or reduce the quantity to control sodium.

• Kid-Friendly: Skip the hot sauce for a milder version suitable for children.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken fried steak is done?

The steak is done when the coating is golden brown and an internal thermometer reads at least 145°F (63°C).

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, if cube steak is unavailable, pound thin cuts like top round or sirloin to tenderize them.

Do I have to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crisp coating, so it’s recommended.

Can I skip the hot sauce?

Yes, the hot sauce is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.

Why did my breading fall off?

Breading may fall off if you overcrowd the basket or don’t shake off excess flour. Letting the coated steak rest for a few minutes before air frying also helps.

What can I serve with this?

Popular sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, coleslaw, biscuits, or macaroni and cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the steaks and refrigerate them for up to 8 hours before cooking.

Can I bake this instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I keep the steak juicy?

Avoid overcooking and let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, freeze tightly wrapped steaks for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.

Conclusion

This air fryer Chicken Fried Steak recipe brings all the comfort and crunch of the Southern classic without the hassle of deep frying. It’s a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or weekend comfort meals. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe delivers every time.

Chicken Fried Steak (Air Fryer)

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This easy Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak is a lighter version of the classic Southern comfort food, featuring a crispy breaded cube steak without deep frying. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for a satisfying meal.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

• 2 cube steaks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Non-stick cooking spray or oil spray

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
4. Dip each cube steak first into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and again in the flour mixture to coat well.
5. Spray both sides of the breaded steaks with cooking spray.
6. Place the steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook in batches if needed.
7. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying with additional oil if needed, until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Serve hot with gravy or your favorite sides.

Notes

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket for best crispiness.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the meat reaches 145°F internally.
• Serve with country gravy, mashed potatoes, or green beans for a full Southern meal.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 steak
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 150mg