Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken: A Southern Classic

Cracker Barrel is a popular restaurant chain in the United States that serves up classic Southern dishes. One of their most beloved menu items is the Chicken Fried Chicken, a crispy and flavorful take on the traditional Southern fried chicken. In this article, we will delve deeper into what makes Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken so special, how to make it at home, and its nutritional information.

What is Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken?

Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken is a boneless chicken breast that is pounded thin, breaded, and then fried until golden brown. It is typically served with creamy gravy on top and a side of mashed potatoes and green beans. The dish has become a staple at the restaurant, and for good reason – it’s delicious!

What Makes Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken So Special?

There are a few key reasons why Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken stands out from other fried chicken dishes:

The Breading

The breading on the chicken is made with a blend of flour, cornmeal, and spices, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. The cornmeal adds a slight crunch, while the spices give it a kick of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

The Gravy

The creamy gravy that is served on top of the chicken is made from scratch and is the perfect accompaniment to the crispy chicken. It’s rich and savory, and adds a comforting warmth to the dish.

The Sides

The sides that come with the Chicken Fried Chicken at Cracker Barrel are just as important as the chicken itself. The mashed potatoes are creamy and buttery, while the green beans are seasoned with bacon and cooked until tender. Together, they create a meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken at Home

If you want to recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken in your own kitchen, here’s how:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Oil for frying
• 1 batch of Creamy Gravy (see recipe below)
• 1 batch of Mashed Potatoes (see recipe below)
• 1 batch of Green Beans (see recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until they are about 1/2 inch thick.
3. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. In another shallow dish, pour buttermilk.
5. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
6. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
7. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
9. While the chicken is baking, make the Creamy Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans (see recipes below).
10. Remove chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
11. Place chicken on a plate and spoon gravy over the top.
12. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans on the side.

Creamy Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden brown.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Add salt and pepper and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with salted water.
2. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes and return them to the pot.
4. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Mash potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they are smooth and creamy.
6. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Green Beans:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove bacon from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add green beans to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until green beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with bacon.

What Do People Think of Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken?

The response to Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken has been overwhelmingly positive. Many people rave about the crispy breading, the creamy gravy, and the comforting sides. A lot of people also appreciate the fact that the restaurant serves up generous portions, making it a great value for your money.

Nutrition Facts

Here are the nutrition facts for Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken:

While Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken is certainly not the healthiest option on the menu, it’s a great treat once in a while. If you’re looking to cut down on calories and fat, consider sharing a plate with a friend, or opting for a lighter menu item.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken is a beloved Southern classic that has captured the hearts (and appetites) of people all over the country. It’s crispy, flavorful, and comforting, and it’s no wonder why people keep coming back for more. While it’s certainly not the healthiest option on the menu