After a long day of meal prepping and resisting every temptation to order takeout, I stumbled upon a dish that brings the comforts of classic Southern cooking right to my kitchen—without the carbs! Introducing my Keto Chicken Fried Steak: a crispy, golden delight that defies the notion that you have to sacrifice flavor when choosing a low-carb lifestyle.
As I heated the oil, the sizzle of the cube steaks reminded me of cozy family dinners, the kind where laughter fills the air and there’s barely enough room on the table for all the sides. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone bored with fast food or tired of the same old weeknight dinners. With a mere 25 minutes of prep time and just 6 minutes of cooking, you’ll serve up an impressive, crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies cravings without the guilt. Let’s dive into the world of keto comfort food that actually tastes like a treat!
Why is Keto Chicken Fried Steak a must-try?
Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep and 6 minutes of cooking, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of Parmesan, smoked paprika, and spices brings an irresistible taste that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Guilt-Free Comfort: Enjoy the classic comfort of chicken fried steak without the carbs, making it suitable for your keto lifestyle.
Impressive Presentation: Serve it with creamy gravy that’s both rich and indulgent, making it an ideal dish for gatherings.
Family-Friendly: Even your pickiest eaters will love this hearty meal, making dinner time stress-free and enjoyable.
This Keto Chicken Fried Steak is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that you’ll look forward to after a long day. Why not explore more irresistible keto recipes that fit your lifestyle?
Keto Chicken Fried Steak Ingredients
For the Coating
• ¾ cup almond flour – Perfect for adding a crunchy texture without the carbs.
• ¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory depth and a delightful crispness.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Infuses your dish with a subtle smokiness that amplifies flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt – Essential for enhancing the overall taste of your meal.
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper – Adds just the right kick to balance flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – A dash of heat that elevates your chicken fried steak.
For the Meat
• 2 eggs – A binding agent that helps the coating stick beautifully.
• 24 ounces cube steaks – The star of the dish; tender and juicy for maximum flavor.
For Cooking
• ¼ cup ghee or avocado oil – Use ghee for a nutty flavor, or avocado oil for a lighter option.
For the Gravy
• 1 cup beef broth – Adds rich, savory depth to the gravy.
• ½ cup heavy cream – For a velvety texture that makes the gravy irresistible.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A must-have for adding aromatic goodness to your dish.
• ¼ teaspoon xanthan gum – A thickening agent that gives your gravy that perfect consistency.
• ½ cup sour cream – Finishes the gravy with creamy, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly.
Get ready to delight your family with this Keto Chicken Fried Steak that promises not only scrumptious flavors but also a wonderful way to enjoy a classic meal while staying on track with your keto lifestyle!
How to Make Keto Chicken Fried Steak
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Combine ingredients: In a shallow bowl, mix together the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until evenly distributed. This flavorful coating sets the stage for your delightful dish.
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Beat eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together until they’re well combined. This step helps the coating adhere beautifully to the steaks, creating that crispy finish.
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Tenderize the meat: Using a meat hammer, pound the cube steaks until they are about ¼ inch thick. This not only makes the meat more tender but also allows for better flavor absorption.
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Coat the steaks: Dip each piece of meat into the beaten eggs, ensuring they’re fully coated. Then, press the almond flour mixture onto the steaks, making sure each one is generously covered for that perfect crunch.
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Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat the ghee or avocado oil over medium-high heat until it reaches between 320°F and 340°F. The right temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown exterior.
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Cook the steaks: Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil and cook for about 2 to 4 minutes on each side. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color to indicate they’re done and crispy.
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Keep warm: Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and transfer them onto a rack placed over a baking sheet. Tent with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the gravy.
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Make the gravy: Reduce the heat to medium and add in the beef broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, and xanthan gum. Whisk continuously to combine all the flavors into a smooth mixture.
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Season and simmer: Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a simmer, thickening slightly.
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Finish the gravy: Lower the heat to medium-low and gently mix in the sour cream. This adds a rich creaminess that perfectly complements the savory base.
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Serve: Plate the chicken fried steak and generously drizzle the creamy gravy on top. It’s time to enjoy a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet keto-friendly!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Keto Chicken Fried Steaks are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the coating mixture (almond flour and spices) and even tenderize the cube steaks up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you could also make the creamy gravy ahead of time, refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply bring the gravy to a simmer, cook the coated steaks as instructed, and pour that delicious sauce on top just before serving for a fabulous meal that’s just as delightful as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Keto Chicken Fried Steak?
Create a complete meal that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
- Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: This low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes pairs perfectly, providing a smooth and buttery texture that balances the crispy steak.
- Garlicky Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans add a burst of color and freshness, making every bite feel vibrant and lively.
- Zesty Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with a tangy dressing serves as a refreshing side, cleansing the palate between bites of rich steak.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the meal.
- Keto Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy slaw made with cabbage and a low-carb dressing adds a tangy bite that perfectly complements the savory steak.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: This refreshing drink cuts through the richness, making it a perfect companion to your hearty meal.
Gather your loved ones and indulge in the harmonious combinations of flavors and textures, making your Keto Chicken Fried Steak an unforgettable experience!
Tips for the Best Keto Chicken Fried Steak
Perfect Temperature: Make sure your oil is in the right range (320°F – 340°F) for optimal frying. Oil that’s too hot can burn, while oil that’s too cool might make the coating soggy.
Thorough Coating: When coating the steaks, press the almond flour mixture firmly onto the meat. This helps the coating adhere and creates an irresistible crunch when cooked.
Tender Texture: Always pound the cube steaks to about ¼ inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and are tender, leading to that melt-in-your-mouth experience everyone loves in a keto chicken fried steak.
Simmer Satisfactorily: For the gravy, be patient as it simmers. Constantly stirring ensures a smooth and creamy texture without lumps, adding richness to your dish.
Customize Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. More cayenne for heat or extra garlic powder can elevate your keto chicken fried steak even further.
Keto Chicken Fried Steak Variations
Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own, tailoring the flavors and ingredients to your palate!
- Pork Alternative: Swap cube steaks for pork chops for a delicious twist on texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of almond flour for a different crunch while keeping it keto-friendly.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the coating for an aromatic flavor boost that enchants the senses.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add chili flakes to give your steaks a fiery kick that’ll ignite your taste buds!
- Savory Mushroom Gravy: Stir in sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for an earthy depth that complements the beef wonderfully.
- Creamy Spin: Substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy creaminess that’s equally delicious and high in protein.
- Cheddar Bliss: Mix in shredded cheese such as cheddar into the coating mix for an extra cheesy crunch that your family will love.
- Air Fryer Option: Try air frying your coated steaks for a healthier take that gives you all the crispiness without the extra oil.
These variations open up a world of possibilities while staying true to the heart of keto cooking, making mealtime exciting and full of flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Keto Chicken Fried Steak
Fridge: Store leftover Keto Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh while maintaining its delicious, crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the coating stays crispy and the gravy is warm.
Gravy Storage: Store any leftover gravy separately in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat on low heat while stirring to keep it creamy.
Keto Chicken Fried Steak Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select cube steaks?
Absolutely! When selecting cube steaks, look for those that have a nice pink color and minimal dark spots or discoloration. Fresh cube steaks should be tender and free of any excess moisture. Always check the sell-by date for freshness, and feel free to ask your butcher for guidance; they can recommend the best cuts.
How should I store leftover keto chicken fried steak?
You can store leftover Keto Chicken Fried Steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep the steaks fresh while maintaining their delicious, crispy texture. For best results, store the gravy in a separate container to avoid sogginess.
Can I freeze Keto Chicken Fried Steak?
Yes, you definitely can! Wrap individual pieces of Keto Chicken Fried Steak tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method prevents freezer burn, allowing you to freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes to retain that crispy coating.
How can I keep the gravy creamy when reheating?
To keep the gravy creamy during reheating, store it separately from the chicken fried steak. When you reheat it on low heat, stir constantly to maintain its texture and avoid separation. If the gravy seems too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or cream to return it to the desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re serving this to guests with dietary restrictions, be aware that this Keto Chicken Fried Steak contains dairy due to the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream. For those with dairy allergies, you can substitute these ingredients with non-dairy alternatives—such as nutritional yeast for flavor, coconut milk for creaminess, and cashew cream for the sour cream.
What can I do if my coating isn’t sticking to the steaks?
If you find the coating isn’t sticking well to the steak, try double-dipping! After the first coat of egg and almond flour mixture, dip the steaks back in the egg and then again in the almond flour mix. This extra layer will create a thicker and crunchier crust. Also, ensure that your steaks are adequately tenderized; this helps the coating adhere better.
Delicious Keto Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together until they’re well combined.
- Using a meat hammer, pound the cube steaks until they are about ¼ inch thick.
- Dip each piece of meat into the beaten eggs, ensuring they’re fully coated. Then, press the almond flour mixture onto the steaks.
- In a large skillet, heat the ghee or avocado oil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the coated steaks in the hot oil and cook for about 2 to 4 minutes on each side until golden-brown.
- Once cooked, remove the steaks from the skillet and transfer them onto a rack placed over a baking sheet. Tent with foil.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the beef broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, and xanthan gum. Whisk continuously.
- Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper as needed. Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and gently mix in the sour cream.
- Plate the chicken fried steak and generously drizzle the creamy gravy on top.
