Comparisons Wiki

Country Fried Steak vs. Chicken Fried Steak: Difference and Comparison

Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Published on November 24, 2023
Country fried steak typically has a creamy gravy, while chicken fried steak is breaded like fried chicken and often served with a peppery white gravy.
Country Fried Steak vs. Chicken Fried Steak

Difference Between Country Fried Steak and Chicken Fried Steak

Country fried steak and chicken fried steak are both beloved Southern dishes, and though they might seem similar at first glance, they possess unique characteristics. Both dishes involve taking a piece of beefsteak, tenderizing it, and then frying it, but the end results and their accompaniments can differ. Country fried steak, for instance, is usually associated with a smoother, cream-based gravy. This gravy often carries a rich and mild flavor, complementing the fried steak.
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023
Chicken fried steak, on the other hand, gets its name from the way it's prepared—similar to fried chicken. This means that it's often breaded with a mixture that would typically be used for frying chicken, resulting in a crispy exterior. Moreover, chicken fried steak is frequently served with a peppery white gravy that has a bit more kick to it. This gravy adds a spiciness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Muazma Batool
Nov 24, 2023
Though the names might suggest otherwise, neither dish contains chicken. The distinction in naming often confuses many, with "chicken fried" indicating the method of preparation rather than an ingredient. Regardless of these distinctions, both country fried steak and chicken fried steak have a special place in Southern cuisine, offering comfort food lovers two delicious, yet distinct, options.
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Country Fried Steak vs. Chicken Fried Steak Comparison Chart

Gravy Type

Cream-based gravy
Peppery white gravy
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Name Origin

Denotes style and gravy type
Indicates method of preparation
Muazma Batool
Nov 24, 2023

Coating

Lightly breaded
Heavily breaded like fried chicken
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Flavor Profile

Milder flavor
Spicier due to peppery gravy
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Main Serving Accompaniment

Cream gravy
Peppery white gravy
Nolan
Nov 24, 2023

Country Fried Steak vs. Chicken Fried Steak Definitions

Country Fried Steak

A comfort food staple in Southern cuisine.
For many, country fried steak evokes memories of family dinners.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023

Chicken Fried Steak

A Southern favorite, combining beefsteak with fried chicken preparation methods.
Chicken fried steak brings the best of both beef and fried chicken worlds.
Muazma Batool
Sep 24, 2023

Country Fried Steak

Steak prepared with a smoother, cream-based gravy.
Diners love the rich flavor of the country fried steak's gravy.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023

Chicken Fried Steak

Beefsteak with a crispy exterior and spicy gravy.
The spiciness of the chicken fried steak's gravy sets it apart.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023

Country Fried Steak

A Southern dish featuring breaded beefsteak with cream gravy.
The country fried steak is the restaurant's signature dish.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023

Chicken Fried Steak

Tenderized steak heavily breaded and deep-fried.
The crispy layer of the chicken fried steak is its highlight.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023

Country Fried Steak

Tenderized beefsteak, lightly breaded and fried.
Country fried steak pairs well with mashed potatoes.
Muazma Batool
Sep 24, 2023

Chicken Fried Steak

A dish symbolizing Southern comfort food with a kick.
Chicken fried steak is the go-to for those seeking a hearty, spicy meal.
Lucas
Sep 24, 2023

Country Fried Steak

Beefsteak fried to a golden brown with mild flavors.
Country fried steak is known for its delicious yet unspicy taste.
Elijah
Sep 24, 2023

Chicken Fried Steak

Steak breaded and fried like chicken, served with peppery gravy.
Chicken fried steak offers a delightful crunch with every bite.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023

Country Fried Steak vs. Chicken Fried Steak Frequently Asked Questions

Which of the two has a spicier gravy?

Chicken fried steak often comes with a spicier, peppery gravy.
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Is chicken an ingredient in chicken fried steak?

No, chicken fried steak refers to the method of preparation, not an ingredient.
Muazma Batool
Nov 24, 2023

Which steak is served with a cream-based gravy?

Country fried steak is typically accompanied by a cream-based gravy.
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Which dish is known for its crispy exterior?

Chicken fried steak is renowned for its crispy, fried chicken-like coating.
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Do both dishes use the same cut of beef?

Typically, both dishes use a tenderized beefsteak, often a cheaper cut.
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Is country fried steak breaded heavily like fried chicken?

No, that description is more apt for chicken fried steak.
Leo
Nov 24, 2023

Which steak is milder in flavor?

Country fried steak usually has a milder flavor due to its cream gravy.
Henry
Nov 24, 2023

What's the origin of the name "chicken fried steak"?

The name indicates the method of preparation, similar to how chicken is fried.
Leo
Nov 24, 2023

Why is there confusion between the two dishes?

The similarities in preparation and naming often cause confusion between country fried steak and chicken fried steak.
Leo
Nov 24, 2023

Are both dishes popular in Southern cuisine?

Yes, both country fried steak and chicken fried steak are staples in Southern comfort food.
Muneeza Rehman
Nov 24, 2023

Content Creators

Written by
Muneeza Rehman
At Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
Edited by
Muazma Batool
As a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.

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