Chicken fried steak is a beloved dish that has traveled beyond its Texas roots to find a home in Phoenix, Arizona. This crispy, breaded cutlet smothered in creamy gravy has become a staple in many local eateries, offering a taste of the Lone Star State in the Southwest.
Phoenix boasts several restaurants serving authentic Texas-style chicken fried steak, each with its own unique twist on this classic comfort food. From family-owned diners to upscale steakhouses, the city’s culinary landscape provides numerous options for those craving this hearty meal. Whether paired with mashed potatoes, served alongside eggs for breakfast, or presented as a standalone entrée, chicken fried steak continues to satisfy hungry diners in the Valley of the Sun.
1) The Henry – Phoenix Classic
The Henry in Phoenix offers a modern take on the classic chicken fried steak. This upscale restaurant combines New York style with Southwestern flair, creating a unique dining experience.
The menu features a variety of American dishes, including their interpretation of chicken fried steak. While not strictly Texas-style, The Henry’s version pays homage to the traditional recipe with a gourmet twist.
Diners can expect a crispy, golden-brown exterior encasing tender, flavorful beef. The dish is typically served with creamy gravy, adding richness to each bite.
The Henry’s atmosphere complements the elevated comfort food. With its stylish decor and attentive service, it’s an ideal spot for both casual meals and special occasions.
While prices may be higher than typical diners, the quality of ingredients and preparation justifies the cost. The restaurant’s popularity among locals and visitors alike speaks to its consistent quality and appealing menu.
2) Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse offers a unique twist on traditional barbecue fare in Phoenix, Arizona. Located at 3375 E Shea Blvd, this restaurant combines modern culinary techniques with classic smokehouse flavors.
The establishment is known for its slow-smoked meats and innovative side dishes. Diners can expect a menu featuring a variety of smoked meats, including beef, pork, and chicken options.
While Bootleggers doesn’t specialize in Texas-style chicken fried steak, they do offer creative takes on American comfort food. Their menu includes dishes like Southwest Steak Tartare, showcasing their ability to blend regional flavors with classic preparations.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual yet refined, with brick walls and a full bar serving moonshine cocktails. This ambiance creates a welcoming environment for patrons seeking quality barbecue and American cuisine.
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse is open Wednesday through Sunday, with varying hours each day. The restaurant caters to both lunch and dinner crowds, offering a consistent dining experience throughout the week.
3) Texaz Grill’s Authentic Style
Texaz Grill has been serving authentic Texas-style chicken fried steak in Phoenix since 1985. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition has made it a local favorite for nearly four decades.
The chicken fried steak at Texaz Grill is hand-cut from USDA Choice aged beef. This ensures a tender and flavorful base for the dish. The steak is then breaded and fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior that complements the juicy meat inside.
Texaz Grill’s chicken fried steak has gained recognition beyond local fans. It was named one of the “Top 10 Dishes in the Valley” by the Arizona Republic, solidifying its status as a must-try Phoenix culinary experience.
The restaurant’s dedication to this classic dish is evident in the outdoor sign that tracks its chicken fried steak sales. With over 700,000 servings sold since opening, Texaz Grill has clearly mastered the art of this Texas favorite.
Texaz Grill’s atmosphere adds to the authentic experience. The roadhouse-style decor and friendly service transport diners to the heart of Texas, right in central Phoenix.
4) Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles – Southern Comfort
Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles brings a taste of Southern comfort to Phoenix. Founded by Larry “Lo-Lo” White, this family-owned restaurant has become an iconic destination for soul food enthusiasts.
The menu features their signature dish of crispy fried chicken paired with golden brown waffles. This combination has earned Lo-Lo’s numerous awards and a loyal following.
Beyond chicken and waffles, Lo-Lo’s offers other soul food classics. Diners can enjoy mac and cheese, collard greens, and other Southern favorites in a lively atmosphere.
Lo-Lo’s has expanded beyond its original Phoenix location. The restaurant now has outposts in Scottsdale, Las Vegas, and the Dallas area, spreading its Southern flavors to new markets.
While the Gilbert location recently closed, Lo-Lo’s continues to serve customers at its other Arizona locations. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and family recipes keeps patrons coming back for more.
5) Ruth’s Chris Steak House Specialty
Ruth’s Chris Steak House offers a unique take on chicken fried steak. Their version features a lightly fried cold water lobster tail instead of the traditional beef cutlet.
This specialty dish combines the crispy texture of fried food with the delicate flavor of lobster. The lobster tail is tossed in a spicy cream sauce, adding a kick to the dish.
A jalapeno pepper jam drizzle provides a sweet and spicy element. The dish is completed with a tangy cucumber salad, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich lobster.
While not a traditional chicken fried steak, this dish showcases Ruth’s Chris’ innovative approach to classic steakhouse fare. It demonstrates their commitment to high-quality ingredients and creative culinary techniques.
This specialty item exemplifies the upscale dining experience Ruth’s Chris is known for. It’s a testament to their ability to put a luxurious spin on comfort food favorites.
6) Angry Crab Shack’s Southern Delight
Angry Crab Shack brings a taste of Southern comfort to Phoenix with its chicken fried steak offering. This dish combines the seafood restaurant’s expertise in Southern-style cooking with a classic Texan favorite.
The chicken fried steak at Angry Crab Shack features a tender cut of beef, breaded and fried to crispy perfection. It’s served with a side of creamy gravy, adding richness to each bite.
While primarily known for its seafood boils, Angry Crab Shack demonstrates versatility with this land-based option. The restaurant’s approach to Southern cuisine extends beyond seafood, appealing to a wider range of tastes.
Diners can expect a generous portion size, typical of Southern hospitality. The chicken fried steak is often accompanied by classic sides that complement the main dish’s hearty flavors.
Angry Crab Shack’s version of chicken fried steak provides a satisfying option for those craving a taste of the South in Phoenix. It stands as a testament to the restaurant’s ability to diversify its menu while maintaining a focus on Southern-inspired cuisine.
7) The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub’s Signature Dish
The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub in downtown Phoenix offers a unique take on chicken fried steak. While not strictly Texas-style, their signature dish incorporates elements that appeal to fans of this classic comfort food.
The Kettle Black’s version features a tender cut of beef, hand-breaded and fried to a golden crisp. It’s served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and smothered in rich gravy.
What sets this dish apart is the pub’s Irish-inspired twist. The gravy incorporates a hint of Guinness, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile. This subtle addition elevates the traditional recipe without overpowering it.
The Kettle Black’s chicken fried steak is available on their regular menu. It’s a popular choice among patrons looking for a hearty meal in a casual pub atmosphere.
Diners can pair their chicken fried steak with one of the pub’s craft beers on tap or a signature cocktail. The combination of comfort food and drinks makes for a satisfying dining experience.
8) The Gladly’s Savory Twist
The Gladly, a renowned restaurant in Phoenix, offers a unique take on the classic Texas-style chicken fried steak. Their version incorporates unexpected flavors that elevate the dish while maintaining its comfort food essence.
The chefs at The Gladly use high-quality beef, ensuring a tender and flavorful base for their creation. They coat the steak in a crispy, well-seasoned batter that provides a satisfying crunch with every bite.
What sets The Gladly’s chicken fried steak apart is their innovative gravy. Instead of the traditional cream-based sauce, they opt for a rich, savory mushroom gravy that complements the beef perfectly.
The dish is typically served with creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables, creating a well-balanced plate. The Gladly’s attention to detail and commitment to quality ingredients shines through in this reimagined Texas classic.
Diners appreciate the restaurant’s upscale ambiance, which provides a sophisticated setting for enjoying this elevated comfort food. The Gladly’s chicken fried steak has become a popular menu item, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Texas with a Phoenix twist.
9) Texaz Grill’s Southern Charm
Texaz Grill has been a Phoenix institution since 1985, serving up authentic Southern comfort food with a Texas twist. Located at the intersection of 16th Street and Bethany Home Road, this eatery exudes a welcoming roadhouse atmosphere.
The restaurant’s interior features nostalgic decor, including mounted memorabilia that transports diners to the heart of Texas. This ambiance complements the hearty, home-style dishes that have made Texaz Grill a local favorite.
At the core of Texaz Grill’s menu is their renowned chicken-fried steak. The dish has gained such popularity that an outdoor sign keeps a running tally of steaks sold, surpassing 700,000 since the restaurant’s opening.
Steve Freidkin, the owner of Texaz Grill, takes pride in serving what he calls “comfort food at its best.” The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in their use of hand-cut, USDA Choice aged steaks.
Texaz Grill’s dedication to Southern hospitality extends beyond the food. The establishment has earned accolades for its friendly service and value, including recognition from Gourmet Magazine as “Tops in Value.”
10) Welcome Diner’s Fusion Flavor
Welcome Diner in Phoenix offers a unique twist on chicken fried steak. This popular eatery combines traditional Southern comfort food with modern culinary techniques.
Their chicken fried steak takes inspiration from both Texas and Arizona flavors. The crispy, golden-brown breading encases a tender cut of beef, creating a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Welcome Diner’s chefs use local ingredients to enhance the dish’s flavor profile. The gravy, a crucial component, is made in-house and features a blend of spices that complement the meat perfectly.
The restaurant’s atmosphere adds to the dining experience. Its retro-inspired decor and friendly service create a welcoming environment for patrons to enjoy their meals.
Welcome Diner’s hours extend into the late evening on weekends, making it a great spot for both lunch and dinner. Their chicken fried steak pairs well with their house-made lemonade, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
The menu also includes other Southern-inspired dishes, allowing diners to explore various flavor combinations. Welcome Diner’s approach to chicken fried steak showcases how traditional recipes can be adapted to reflect local tastes and ingredients.
Understanding Texas Style Chicken Fried Steak
Texas style chicken fried steak is a beloved comfort food with a rich history and distinct preparation method. This iconic dish features a tenderized beef cutlet coated in seasoned breading and fried to crispy perfection.
History and Origins
Chicken fried steak emerged in Texas during the 19th century, evolving from German and Austrian immigrants’ schnitzel recipes. As cattle became abundant in Texas, beef replaced veal in the traditional dish. The name “chicken fried” refers to the cooking method, which is similar to that used for fried chicken.
By the early 20th century, chicken fried steak had become a staple in Texan households and diners. Its popularity grew, cementing its place in Texas cuisine. In 2011, the State of Texas officially recognized the dish’s cultural significance by declaring October 26th as Chicken Fried Steak Day.
Key Ingredients and Preparation
The foundation of Texas style chicken fried steak is a tenderized beef cutlet, typically cube steak or eye of round. The breading consists of seasoned flour, often including salt and pepper. Some recipes incorporate baking mix for extra crispiness.
Ingredients:
- Tenderized beef cutlet
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Milk
- Seasoned salt
- Black pepper
The preparation involves dredging the beef in seasoned flour, dipping it in an egg wash, and coating it again with flour. The breaded cutlet is then fried until golden brown and crispy. A key component of the dish is the accompanying cream gravy, made from pan drippings, flour, and milk.
Finding Authentic Texas Style Chicken Fried Steak in Phoenix
Phoenix offers several options for those seeking genuine Texas style chicken fried steak. Local establishments have embraced this Lone Star State classic, adapting it to suit regional tastes while maintaining its core characteristics.
Local Culinary Influences
Phoenix’s culinary scene has incorporated Texas style chicken fried steak with a local twist. Texaz Grill, a longstanding Phoenix icon, has been serving Texas-sized chicken fried steaks for nearly 40 years. The restaurant combines steakhouse staples with a touch of nostalgia, making it a go-to spot for authentic flavors.
Mrs. White’s Golden Rule Cafe, a downtown soul food fixture, offers a unique take on the dish. Their version comes tender, juicy, and generously covered in gravy, showcasing how local establishments have adapted the Texas classic to fit Phoenix’s diverse culinary landscape.
Some Phoenix restaurants have earned recognition for their chicken fried steak. The Arizona Republic named one local version among the “Top 10 Dishes in the Valley,” highlighting the dish’s popularity and quality in the area.