Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe is a beloved Southern classic that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table.
Known for its crispy, golden-brown coating and tender, juicy chicken inside, this dish captures the essence of traditional Southern cooking.
The recipe combines a flavorful buttermilk marinade with a seasoned flour dredge, creating the perfect balance of crunch and moisture.
Served often with creamy mashed potatoes, rich gravy, and classic sides, this meal is a hearty and satisfying experience.
Recreating a favorite restaurant dish or simply craving a delicious home-cooked meal, this Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is easy to follow and promises mouthwatering results that will delight family and friends alike.
Get ready to enjoy a true taste of Southern comfort food right in your own kitchen!
How To Prepare Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe ?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southern American
Yield: Serves 4
Equipment Needed
- Deep skillet or cast-iron pan
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Cooling rack (optional but recommended)
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 inches deep)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy inside.
2. Make the Buttermilk Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. This mixture helps tenderize the chicken and gives a perfect base for the breading.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the flour with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This seasoned flour is key to that classic Cracker Barrel flavor.
4. Bread the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour. For extra crispiness, repeat this step once more—dip back into the buttermilk and coat again in flour.
5. Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into your skillet to a depth of about 2 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to keep the temperature steady.
6. Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Fry for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
7. Drain and Rest
Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a cooling rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Special Note
For the best crispy texture, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. Maintain a consistent oil temperature around 350°F to ensure even cooking.
Let the chicken rest briefly after frying to lock in juices. Reheat leftovers in the oven to keep the coating crunchy.
Nutrition Facts For Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe
Calories: 450
Protein: 35g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 700mg
Serving Ideas
This crispy Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe pairs perfectly with traditional Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes topped with savory gravy, warm biscuits, and steamed green beans.
For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetable. Add your favorite dipping sauce or a touch of honey for extra flavor.
Expert Tips
1. Pound the Chicken Evenly:
Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook uniformly and stay juicy inside without drying out.
2. Double Dredge for Extra Crunch:
For that signature crispy crust, dip the chicken twice in the buttermilk and flour mixture. This double coating locks in moisture and creates a perfect crunch.
3. Keep Oil Temperature Steady:
Use a thermometer to maintain the frying oil at 350°F. Too hot will burn the coating; too cool will make it greasy—consistency is key for crispy, golden chicken every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of chicken is best for Chicken Fried Chicken?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They cook evenly and stay juicy under the crispy coating.
Can I make the recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour or a gluten-free all-purpose baking mix to dredge the chicken, and make sure your seasonings are gluten-free.
How do I get the coating extra crispy?
Double-dip the chicken by dipping it in the buttermilk mixture, then flour, then back into buttermilk, and again in the flour before frying.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil for frying to get the perfect crispy texture.
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, but frying gives the crispiest result.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that brings a touch of Southern hospitality to your table.
With its crispy coating and tender, juicy chicken, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.
Easy to prepare and utterly delicious, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy classic Southern flavors at home.
By following this Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken Recipe , you’ll create a dish that’s sure to become a favorite, satisfying cravings and warming hearts with every bite.
Enjoy the timeless taste of Chicken Fried Chicken and the joy it brings to every meal.