If you are a fan of Southern food, then you must have heard of the famous Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel. This iconic dish has been a staple on the menu for over 40 years and has garnered a cult following among food lovers. In this article, we will dive deep into the world of Chicken Fried Chicken, exploring its history, ingredients, nutrition facts, and more. So let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What is Chicken Fried Chicken?
Chicken Fried Chicken is a classic Southern dish that is made by breading a chicken breast and frying it until crispy and golden brown. It is served with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, and green beans. The dish is similar to Chicken Fried Steak, which is made using a beef cutlet instead of chicken.
What Makes Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel so Special?
Cracker Barrel’s Chicken Fried Chicken is famous for its crunchy exterior and juicy interior. The chicken breast is marinated in buttermilk and spices before being coated in seasoned flour and fried to perfection. The creamy gravy that accompanies the dish is made using pan drippings, flour, milk, and seasoning. The mashed potatoes are made using real potatoes, butter, and cream, giving them a rich and creamy texture. The green beans are slow-cooked with bacon and onions, adding a smoky and savory flavor to the dish.
History of Chicken Fried Chicken
The origins of Chicken Fried Chicken can be traced back to the Southern United States. The dish is believed to have been created as a variation of Chicken Fried Steak, which was popular in Texas in the early 1900s. Chicken Fried Chicken became popular in the 1960s and 1970s, with many Southern restaurants adding it to their menus. Cracker Barrel introduced Chicken Fried Chicken to its menu in 1981, and it has been a fan favorite ever since.
How to Make Chicken Fried Chicken at Home
If you can’t make it to Cracker Barrel, you can still enjoy Chicken Fried Chicken at home. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started: Ingredients: – 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 1 cup buttermilk – 1 cup all-purpose flour – 1 tsp salt – 1 tsp black pepper – 1 tsp garlic powder – 1 tsp paprika – 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper – Vegetable oil for frying Instructions: 1. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag and pour in the buttermilk. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight. 2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. 3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and shake off the excess. 4. Coat the chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure it sticks. 5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 6. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. 7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. 8. Serve with creamy gravy, mashed potatoes, and green beans.
Nutrition Facts
Here is a breakdown of the nutrition facts for Cracker Barrel’s Chicken Fried Chicken: – Calories: 960 – Total Fat: 50g – Saturated Fat: 10g – Trans Fat: 0g – Cholesterol: 225mg – Sodium: 2590mg – Total Carbohydrates: 58g – Dietary Fiber: 5g – Sugars: 13g – Protein: 68g It’s important to note that this dish is high in calories, fat, and sodium. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What Do People Say About Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel?
Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel has a loyal fan base, with many people raving about its delicious flavor and comforting taste. Some people have even gone as far as to say that it’s the best Chicken Fried Chicken they’ve ever had. However, there are also some people who feel that the dish is too greasy or salty for their liking.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel gluten-free? A: Unfortunately, Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel is not gluten-free. The breading contains wheat flour, and the gravy is thickened with flour as well. Q: Can I order Chicken Fried Chicken at Cracker Barrel for breakfast? A: Yes, you can! Cracker Barrel serves breakfast all day, so you can order Chicken Fried Chicken for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Conclusion
Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel is a classic Southern dish that has stood the test of time. Its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and creamy gravy make it a fan favorite. Whether you enjoy it at the restaurant or make it at home, Chicken Fried Chicken is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings. Just be sure to enjoy it in moderation and balance it with plenty of vegetables and other nutritious foods.
