You love a meal that fills your plate and hangs over the edge of the table, and this article walks you through five nationwide chains that make oversized chicken fried steaks a thing of pride. You’ll learn where to go when you want a crispy, gravy-smothered steak big enough to challenge your fork and appetite.

Expect straightforward impressions of popular spots like Cracker Barrel and Texas Roadhouse, plus a few classic buffet and diner-style names, so you can pick the place that matches your craving and budget. Keep scrolling to find portion size, flavor cues, and what makes each chain’s version worth ordering.
Cracker Barrel
You’ll find a classic, no-frills chicken-fried steak on Cracker Barrel’s menu that leans into Southern comfort. The steak comes topped with sawmill gravy and pairs with your choice of two sides and a biscuit.
Portions can feel generous, and the plate aims for hearty rather than fancy. For more on why Cracker Barrel shows up on lists of oversized chicken-fried steaks, see this rundown of chain restaurants known for oversized portions (https://www.eatthis.com/chain-restaurants-with-oversized-chicken-fried-steaks/).
Texas Roadhouse
You’ll find a hefty Country Fried Sirloin at Texas Roadhouse that leans into Southern comfort: tenderized cube steak, crispy breading, and creamy gravy.
The portion often fills the plate, so plan to bring an appetite or share with someone.
If you like consistent, crowd-pleasing versions of classic homestyle dishes, this chain delivers a reliable chicken-fried option.
Try checking the menu online for local portions and sides before you go: Texas Roadhouse.
Ponderosa Steakhouse
You’ll find Ponderosa as an old-school buffet and steakhouse that still serves comfort-food portions.
Their menu focuses on basics like center-cut sirloin and ribeye, plus fried options that aim for hearty, nostalgic flavor.
If you crave an oversized, breaded chicken-fried steak, some locations still offer generous plates paired with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Check the official Ponderosa menu for current offerings and local variations: Ponderosa & Bonanza Steakhouse.
Golden Corral
You’ll find Golden Corral’s buffet piled with hearty comfort foods, and their chicken-fried steak is a common pick.
Portions tend to be large and served with classic sides, so bring an appetite.
Expect a mass-produced texture compared with made-to-order plates, but many diners still enjoy the gravy and familiar flavors.
Check the official Golden Corral menu for current offerings and locations: Golden Corral menu and hours (https://golden-corral.us/).
O’Charley’s
You’ll find hearty Southern-style dishes at O’Charley’s, including a generous chicken fried steak that leans toward classic comfort food.
The steak comes with a thick, crispy crust and creamy gravy, usually served with two sides so your plate feels substantial.
If you want menu details or to check locations, O’Charley’s keeps an updated online menu you can view before you go.
More from Cultivated Comfort:
- 7 Vintage Home Items From the ’60s That Are Collectors’ Dream Finds
- 7 Vintage Home Goods That Became Collectors’ Gold
- 7 Fast-Food Chains That Changed for the Worse
- 7 Frozen Dinners That Were Better Back in the Day
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.


