Houston’s culinary scene offers a diverse array of dishes, but few are as beloved as chicken fried steak. This Southern comfort food staple has found a special place in the hearts and stomachs of Houstonians. From family-owned diners to upscale restaurants, the city boasts numerous establishments serving up their unique takes on this classic dish.
For those seeking the best chicken fried steak in Houston, several local restaurants stand out from the crowd. These top establishments serve generous portions of tender, flavorful beef coated in crispy breading and smothered in rich gravy, accompanied by classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans. Each eatery brings its own flair to the dish, ensuring diners have plenty of options to satisfy their cravings for this iconic Texas meal.
1) Taste of Texas
Taste of Texas stands out as a premier destination for chicken fried steak in Houston. This upscale steakhouse takes pride in serving high-quality, hand-cut steaks prepared to perfection.
Their chicken fried steak is a crowd favorite, featuring a generous portion of tender beef encased in a crispy, golden-brown crust. The dish comes accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and rich country gravy.
Taste of Texas sources its beef from top-tier producers, ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying. The restaurant’s attention to detail extends to its warm, Texas-themed ambiance, creating a memorable dining experience.
Guests can expect attentive service and a extensive wine list to complement their meal. The restaurant also offers a unique museum-like display of Texas historical artifacts, adding an educational touch to the dining experience.
Taste of Texas: 10505 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024
Phone: (713) 932-6901
Website: www.tasteoftexas.com
2) Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse offers a exceptional chicken fried steak that rivals its renowned beef offerings. The dish features a tender, hand-breaded cutlet fried to golden perfection.
Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the chicken fried steak is generously portioned and served with classic accompaniments. The creamy pepper gravy complements the crispy exterior beautifully.
While primarily known for their dry-aged prime beef, Pappas Bros. proves they can excel at other comfort food favorites. The restaurant’s elegant atmosphere and attentive service elevate the humble chicken fried steak to new heights.
Diners can enjoy this local favorite alongside Pappas Bros.’ extensive wine selection and other steakhouse staples. The chicken fried steak exemplifies the restaurant’s commitment to quality across their entire menu.
Pappas Bros. Steakhouse
5839 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77057
(713) 780-7352
www.pappasbros.com
3) The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation
The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation is a beloved Houston institution known for its Tex-Mex cuisine. While famous for introducing fajitas to the city, this restaurant also serves an excellent chicken fried steak.
Their chicken fried steak is a generous portion of tender beef, coated in a crispy, well-seasoned batter. It’s typically served with classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans.
The dish offers a satisfying crunch on the outside while maintaining a juicy interior. The accompanying cream gravy is rich and flavorful, complementing the steak perfectly.
Ninfa’s vibrant atmosphere and attentive service enhance the dining experience. The restaurant’s popularity means it can get busy, especially during peak hours.
While not traditionally associated with chicken fried steak, Ninfa’s version holds its own against more conventional offerings in the city.
Contact Details:
The Original Ninfa’s on Navigation
2704 Navigation Blvd, Houston, TX 77003
Phone: (713) 228-1175
Website: ninfas.com
4) Killen’s Barbecue
Killen’s Barbecue in Pearland offers a standout chicken fried steak that has garnered significant attention. This dish is a Tuesday-only special, making it a coveted menu item for locals and visitors alike.
The chicken fried steak at Killen’s is known for its exceptional quality and flavor. The restaurant uses high-grade beef, ensuring a tender and flavorful experience. The crispy, well-seasoned batter provides a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Killen’s commitment to quality extends beyond their barbecue offerings. Their chicken fried steak showcases their versatility in crafting Southern comfort food. The dish is typically served with classic sides that complement the main attraction.
While primarily known for barbecue, Killen’s chicken fried steak has become a highlight in its own right. It represents the restaurant’s ability to excel in various culinary areas, contributing to its reputation as one of Houston’s top dining destinations.
Killen’s Barbecue: 3613 E Broadway St, Pearland, TX 77581. Phone: (281) 485-2272. Website: www.killensbarbecue.com
5) Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q
Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q offers a delicious chicken fried steak that deserves recognition among Houston’s best. While primarily known for their barbecue, Rudy’s serves up a hearty and satisfying chicken fried steak that keeps locals coming back.
The chicken fried steak at Rudy’s features a tender, flavorful cut of beef coated in a crispy, well-seasoned breading. It’s typically served with creamy gravy, adding richness to each bite.
Rudy’s casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for enjoying comfort food classics like chicken fried steak. The restaurant’s country store setting adds to its charm and down-home appeal.
Visitors can pair their chicken fried steak with Rudy’s popular sides, such as creamed corn or potato salad, for a complete meal. The generous portions ensure diners leave feeling satisfied.
Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q, 14620 Northwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77040. Phone: (713) 462-3337. Website: www.rudysbbq.com
6) Goodson’s Cafe
Goodson’s Cafe in Tomball has earned a reputation for serving exceptional chicken fried steak. This local institution has been satisfying hungry patrons for over 70 years with its Southern comfort food.
The chicken fried steak at Goodson’s is often described as crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It comes generously portioned, covering most of the plate. The accompanying gravy is rich and flavorful, complementing the meat perfectly.
Diners praise the consistency of the food quality at Goodson’s. Many regulars return time and time again for their chicken fried steak fix. The cafe also offers other classic Southern sides like real mashed potatoes and green beans.
While some claim it’s the “Best Chicken Fried Steak in Texas,” that title is subjective. However, Goodson’s certainly ranks among the top contenders in the Houston area for this beloved dish.
Goodson’s Cafe
27931 Tomball Pkwy, Tomball, TX 77375
(281) 351-1749
www.goodsonscafe.com
History of Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak has deep roots in American culinary traditions, particularly in the South and Texas. Its origins trace back to German and Austrian immigrants who brought their cooking techniques to the United States.
Origins and Evolution
The dish likely evolved from wiener schnitzel, a breaded veal cutlet popular in German cuisine. As German settlers moved to Texas in the 1800s, they adapted their recipes using available ingredients. Beef replaced veal, and the cooking method resembled that of fried chicken.
The term “chicken fried steak” first appeared in print in 1914. Newspaper ads for the Phelps Dining Room and Cafeteria in Colorado featured the dish. By 1917, restaurants in Kansas were also advertising chicken fried steak.
Over time, the recipe spread throughout Texas and the southern United States. Each region developed its own variations, incorporating local flavors and ingredients.
Cultural Significance in Texas
Chicken fried steak holds a special place in Texan culture. It’s considered a quintessential comfort food and a symbol of Texan cuisine. The dish is often served in diners, cafes, and home kitchens across the state.
In 2011, Texas officially recognized chicken fried steak as a state dish. This designation highlights its importance in Texan culinary heritage. Many Texans take pride in their favorite local restaurants serving the best chicken fried steak.
The dish has inspired food challenges, festivals, and even songs celebrating its popularity. It continues to be a beloved staple in Texas, representing the state’s unique blend of cultural influences and hearty cuisine.
Culinary Techniques
Chicken fried steak preparation involves specific methods and variations that impact its taste and texture. Chefs employ both traditional and modern approaches to create this beloved Southern dish.
Traditional Preparation Methods
The classic chicken fried steak technique starts with tenderizing a cut of beef, usually cube steak or round steak. Chefs pound the meat thin using a meat mallet or tenderizer. The steak is then dredged in seasoned flour, dipped in egg wash, and coated again with flour. This double-breading process ensures a crispy exterior.
Traditionally, the breaded steak is fried in a cast-iron skillet with hot oil or lard. The key is maintaining the right oil temperature to achieve a golden-brown crust without overcooking the meat. After frying, the steak rests briefly to allow excess oil to drain.
Modern Variations
Contemporary chefs have introduced new twists to chicken fried steak preparation. Some use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or add spices like paprika or cayenne to the breading. Air fryers offer a healthier cooking option, reducing oil usage while maintaining crispiness.
Innovative gravy variations include jalapeño cream sauce or mushroom gravy. Some restaurants experiment with different meats, such as chicken or venison, for unique flavors. Gluten-free versions use alternative flours like almond or coconut flour for the breading.
Sous vide cooking followed by a quick fry is another modern technique, ensuring perfectly cooked meat with a crispy exterior.
Pairing Suggestions
Selecting the right accompaniments can elevate a chicken fried steak meal to new heights. Thoughtful side dishes and beverages complement the rich, savory flavors of this Texas favorite.
Recommended Side Dishes
Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for chicken fried steak. The smooth texture contrasts nicely with the crispy breading. Green beans provide a fresh, crisp element to balance the richness.
For a Southern twist, try black-eyed peas or collard greens. These sides add earthy flavors and nutritional value to the plate.
Buttermilk biscuits soak up extra gravy and add a comforting touch. Corn on the cob or creamed corn brings sweetness to complement the savory steak.
Consider a crisp coleslaw for a cooling effect. Its tangy crunch cuts through the richness of the fried coating and gravy.
Beverage Pairings
Ice-cold sweet tea is a quintessential Southern beverage that pairs well with chicken fried steak. Its sweetness balances the salty, peppery flavors of the dish.
For beer lovers, a cold lager or pilsner cleanses the palate between bites. The carbonation helps cut through the richness of the meal.
Wine enthusiasts might opt for a medium-bodied red like Merlot or Zinfandel. These wines stand up to the bold flavors without overpowering them.
For a non-alcoholic option, try a tart lemonade or a crisp ginger ale. These refreshing drinks provide a pleasant contrast to the hearty meal.