Craving that crispy, golden Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken, but don’t feel like leaving the house? I get it—there’s something magical about that homestyle flavor. As someone who’s spent years perfecting copycat recipes, I can tell you this: making the Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe at home is easier than you think. With just a few simple ingredients and my step-by-step guide, you’ll have a plate of juicy, crispy chicken that tastes just like the real deal. Ready to bring that Southern comfort to your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Ever tried Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken? It’s like fried chicken’s fancier cousin. Instead of frying a whole bird, you use tender chicken breasts. Coat them in a crispy, seasoned crust. Fry until golden. The result? Crispy outside, juicy inside, and totally delicious. If you enjoy hearty, flavorful meals like this, you might also love our Betty Crocker Beef Stew Recipe, another classic comfort food! Learn more about Chicken Fried Chicken.
Now, let’s talk about the Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe. It’s the king of comfort food. What makes it special? That crispy coating. It’s flavorful, crunchy, and just perfect. It’s like a warm hug on a plate. Once you try it, you’ll see why everyone loves it. So, whether you call it Chicken Fried Chicken, C Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe, or just yummy, one thing’s clear: this dish is a winner. Ready to make it? Let’s keep going!
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied into 4 pieces)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- 2-3 cups peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
Equipment and Tools
- Cutting Board & Knife
- Bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring Spoons & Cups
- Frying Pan or Deep Fryer
- Thermometer
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon
- Paper Towels
- Airtight Container
- Oven (Optional)
Cooking time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 People
How to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
Let’s get cooking! This Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe is easy. Follow these steps, and you’ll have crispy, golden chicken that tastes just like the real deal. For more easy recipes that’ll have you cooking like a pro, check out our Chicken and Pasta Crockpot Recipe, perfect for those busy nights.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken: Start with your chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick. Season both sides with salt and pepper. For even cooking, butterfly the breasts. Cut them into smaller pieces. This step is a game-changer!
Step 2: Make the Crispy Coating: Now, let’s make the crust. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a dash of cayenne. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk and egg. Here’s the secret: double dredging. First, coat the chicken in flour. Shake off the excess. Then, dip it in buttermilk. Finally, coat it in flour again. This double layer makes the Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Recipe crispy and delicious.
Step 3: Let the Coating Set: Don’t skip this step! Let the chicken rest for 7-8 minutes. This helps the flour stick. No one wants their crust falling off mid-fry, right?
Step 4: Fry to Perfection: Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Peanut oil works best. It gives a golden color and rich flavor. Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side. It should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy: Once done, drain the chicken on paper towels. Let it rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy inside. Serve with mashed potatoes, gravy, or biscuits. It’s the true Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken Recipe experience.
Watch How to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken
Tips for Making Chicken Fried Chicken
Want to nail this Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe every time? Here are my tried-and-true tips to make your chicken crispy, juicy, and downright irresistible.
1. Keep It Clean: Handling raw chicken? Be careful. Wash your hands, tools, and surfaces after touching them. No one wants cross-contamination. Safety first!
2. Double Dredge Like a Pro: The secret to that crispy crust? Double dredging. Coat the chicken in flour, dip in buttermilk, then coat in flour again. This double layer is what makes the Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Recipe so special.
3. Let It Rest: After coating, let the chicken sit for 7-8 minutes. This helps the flour stick. Skipping this step? Your crust might fall off. Patience pays off!
4. Oil Temperature Matters: Keep your oil at 350°F (175°C). Too hot? The coating burns. Too cool? The chicken gets greasy. Use a thermometer for perfect results every time.
5. Don’t Reuse Flour or Buttermilk: Once you’ve used the flour or buttermilk, toss it. Reusing it can lead to contamination. Fresh is best for this Chicken Fried Chicken Cracker Barrel Recipe.
6. Serve It Right: For the full Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken Recipe experience, pair your chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, and biscuits. It’s comfort food heaven!
Serving and Storing Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Chicken
This dish is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. Here’s how to serve it:
Classic Cracker Barrel Style: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, rich gravy, and warm cornbread. Add a side of coleslaw for that fresh crunch. It’s the ultimate Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken Recipe experience.
Healthier Twist: Skip the frying and bake the chicken instead. It’s still crispy but lighter. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies.
Spicy Kick: Love heat? Add a pinch of cayenne to the flour mix. Serve with a cooling ranch dip or spicy honey drizzle.
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your Chicken Fried Chicken fresh and tasty:
Store It Right: Let the chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container. It stays good in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat Like a Pro: To keep it crispy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave—it makes the coating soggy.
Freeze for Later: Wrap each piece in foil or plastic wrap. Store in a freezer-safe bag. It stays good for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs about Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work great in this Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe. Just cook them a bit longer to ensure they’re fully done.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes. It’s a perfect substitute for buttermilk in this Chicken Fried Chicken Cracker Barrel Recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the coating crispy.
Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Spray the chicken with oil to help it crisp up. It’s a lighter take on the Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken Recipe.
What oil is best for frying?
Peanut oil is ideal for this Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe. It has a high smoke point and adds a rich flavor. Vegetable or canola oil works too.
Conclusion
If you’re craving that perfect copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken, you’ve gotta try this fried chicken with sawmill gravy recipe! First, soak your chicken strips in the buttermilk for that juicy goodness. When it’s time to cook chicken, make sure to deep-fry the chicken until it’s golden and chicken is crispy. You’ll want to cut chicken into fried chicken tenders or fried chicken breast for easy serving—perfect for those nights when you’re feeling like a cozy meal, just like chicken and dumplings.
And hey, if you’ve got leftovers, don’t stress! You can always freeze cooked chicken for later. This way, you can whip up the best fried chicken anytime you want. Just remember to place your chicken to the hot oil carefully. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying your homemade version of that delicious chicken fried steak and Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken with sawmill gravy. Trust me, once you nail this recipe, you’ll never want to go back to takeout!
