Chicken Fried Venison Steak: Southern Wild Game Comfort Classic

Crispy, Golden, and Utterly Delicious Wild Game Comfort Food

Quick Facts

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Moderate
Diet: Gluten-free adaptable

Why You’ll Love This Venison Steak

Chicken fried venison steak transforms wild game into a mouthwatering Southern delicacy. This recipe turns potentially tough deer meat into a tender, crispy masterpiece that’ll make even game-meat skeptics ask for seconds.

Equipment You’ll Need

Essential Tools

• Cast iron skillet
• Meat mallet
• Shallow dipping dishes
• Paper towel-lined plate
• Tongs

Nice-to-Have

• Meat thermometer
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

For the Venison

• 1.5 lbs venison backstrap or tenderloin
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (optional)

Seasoning Blend

• 2 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne (optional)

Frying

• 2 cups canola or vegetable oil

Country Gravy (Optional)

• ¼ cup reserved frying oil
• ¼ cup flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Tenderizing the Venison

1. Slice venison into ¼-inch thick steaks
2. Pound steaks with meat mallet until uniformly thin
3. Pro Tip: Place meat between plastic wrap to prevent mess

Marinating (Optional but Recommended)

• Soak steaks in buttermilk for 1-4 hours
• Helps reduce gamey flavor
• Tenderizes meat naturally

Breading Station Setup

1. Mix flour with dry seasonings in first bowl
2. Whisk eggs and buttermilk in second bowl
3. Combine additional flour/breadcrumbs in third bowl

Frying Technique

1. Heat oil to 350-375°F
2. Double-dredge steaks:
   • Flour mixture
   • Egg wash
   • Flour/breadcrumb mixture
3. Shake off excess breading
4. Carefully place in hot oil
5. Fry 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown

Gravy Making

1. Remove most oil, leaving ¼ cup
2. Whisk in flour to create roux
3. Slowly add milk, stirring constantly
4. Simmer until thickened
5. Season with salt and pepper

Critical Cooking Tips

• Never overcrowd the pan
• Maintain oil temperature
• Rest meat after frying

Serving Suggestions

• Serve immediately with gravy
• Pair with mashed potatoes
• Add side of green beans or coleslaw

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Reheat in oven at 300°F to maintain crispiness
• Avoid microwave to prevent soggy breading

Variations

• Gluten-free: Use rice flour
• Spicy version: Add extra cayenne
• Breakfast style: Top with fried eggs

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t skip tenderizing
• Ensure oil is right temperature
• Don’t overcook venison

Nutritional Insights

• High protein
• Rich in iron
• Lean game meat
• Moderate calorie count

Pro Hunter’s Notes

This recipe transforms wild venison into a crowd-pleasing dish that bridges hunting tradition with culinary excellence. Perfect for deer camp or family dinner!