Chicken fried steak is a beloved comfort food that many enjoy at diners or home-cooked meals. It has a crispy, golden crust and juicy, tender meat on the inside. The perfect accompaniment to this Southern classic can elevate the meal to new heights. Keep reading to get ideas on sides for chicken fried steak.
When you’re thinking about sides for chicken fried steak, you’ll want to choose dishes that complement the star of the plate – not overpower it. Creamy, buttery, and even fresh vegetable sides are ideal when served alongside this delicious main course.
In this article, we’ll explore some tasty and easy-to-make side dish options that pair perfectly with chicken fried steak. From classic recipes to more innovative ideas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, making your meal a true delight for the taste buds.
Classic Sides for Chicken Fried Steak
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that complements chicken fried steak perfectly. Their creamy texture offers a balance to the crispy, fried steak. To make mashed potatoes interesting, try adding roasted garlic, cheddar cheese, or sour cream and chives.
Green Beans
Green beans, a staple in southern cuisine, are a popular side for chicken fried steak. They can be cooked in various ways, like sautéed with bacon, caramelized in butter, or simmered in a tomato broth. Whichever method you choose, green beans add color and a fresh taste to the meal.
Biscuits
Biscuits are another traditional side for chicken fried steak. These flaky, buttery delights can be served plain, with honey, or even stuffed with cheese or ham. Baking a batch is a great way to turn a simple dinner into a Southern feast.
Gravy
No chicken fried steak meal would be complete without rich and savory gravy. Cream gravy or peppered white gravy add the perfect finishing touch to the dish. You can also opt for a brown gravy made from pan drippings or a flavorful homemade chicken broth.
Vegetable Side Dishes
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a classic side dish that pairs well with chicken fried steak. It’s made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. This crunchy and refreshing salad adds a burst of flavor and some healthy veggies to your meal. Plus, it’s a great source of fiber!
Collard Greens
A helping of collard greens cooked with garlic and a splash of vinegar brings a Southern flair to your chicken fried steak. These leafy greens are packed with nutrients and can be made even healthier by using olive oil instead of bacon grease. Served alongside your main dish, collard greens provide a savory and satisfying veggie option.
Roasted Okra
Roasted okra is another great vegetable side dish to complement chicken fried steak. Toss the okra in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until crispy. This cooking method highlights the natural flavor of the okra and keeps it from becoming slimy while providing a more health-conscious alternative to frying.
Steamed Broccoli
Steamed broccoli is a delicious and simple choice for a side dish that won’t overpower your chicken fried steak. This green veggie is a great source of vitamins and fiber. You can steam it plain or add a touch of butter or olive oil and seasonings for a bit of extra flavor.
Zucchini Noodles
For a low-carb option, Zucchini noodles (Zoodles) is an excellent choice. Spiralize zucchini into noodle-like strands, and sauté with a little olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Zucchini noodles offer a light and flavorful side that helps balance out the richness of the chicken fried steak while still providing plenty of healthy veggies.
Starchy Sides
French Fries
French fries are a classic starchy side dish that pairs well with chicken fried steak. Serve them with ketchup or gravy for dipping, and consider adding some seasoned salt for an extra kick of flavor.
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese, or mac and cheese, is a delicious and creamy side dish that complements the crunchy exterior of chicken fried steak. Feel free to add fresh herbs, like chives or parsley, for a burst of freshness.
Baked Potatoes
Simply bake whole potatoes in the oven until tender, then let your guests choose their favorite toppings like butter, sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, or even leftovers from your chicken fried steak.
Grits
Grits are a Southern classic made from ground corn and can be served as a creamy side dish alongside chicken fried steak. Cook grits in a mixture of water and milk to create a rich, smooth texture. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of butter, or add in cheese for a decadent twist.
Mashed Sweet Potato
An alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potato is a delicious and nutritious side dish for chicken fried steak. To prepare, simply boil sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt. If desired, add cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor dimension.
Salads and Slaws
Classic Blue Wedge Salad
A Classic Blue Wedge Salad pairs wonderfully with chicken fried steak. It typically consists of a wedge of iceberg lettuce topped with blue cheese dressing, crumbled bacon, and cherry tomatoes. Its cool, crisp flavors contrast with the warmth and richness of the chicken fried steak. You can also add red onion slices and croutons for extra texture.
German Coleslaw
German Coleslaw complements the dish with its tangy, vinegar-based dressing. It’s made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and onion mixed with a dressing of vinegar, oil, and sugar. Some variations also include celery seeds or caraway seeds for added flavor. This coleslaw’s refreshing taste and crunch balance the heaviness of chicken fried steak.
Greek Salad
If you prefer a Mediterranean twist, try serving a Greek Salad alongside your chicken fried steak. A traditional Greek Salad includes chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a dressing of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Its bright, zesty flavors bring a lightness to the meal, making it a delicious and satisfying choice.
Broccoli Salad
Finally, a Broccoli Salad offers a unique and colorful side for chicken fried steak. It features blanched broccoli florets, dried cranberries, and chopped red onion, all mixed in a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice. To add some crunch, toss in toasted almonds or sunflower seeds. This salad’s combination of flavors and textures will elevate your chicken-fried steak experience.
Unique and Special Sides
Honey Cornbread
Honey cornbread is a delightful side to pair with chicken fried steak. The sweet taste of honey adds a unique flavor, complementing the savory steak. Making honey cornbread is an easy process, using ingredients like cornmeal, honey, and buttermilk.
Serve this warm treat as a small slice or muffin, perfect for soaking up the tasty gravy from your chicken fried steak. The combination of textures with the crispy steak and soft cornbread enhances the overall experience. Additionally, honey cornbread has a rich history in Southern cuisine, making it an authentic choice for this dish.
