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Cracker Barrel Country Fried Turkey Recipe

This Cracker Barrel Country Fried Turkey is everything you want in a homestyle meal—crispy, golden, and downright comforting!

The biggest mistake people make is rushing the dredging process. Take your time pressing the flour mixture into the turkey so it sticks well and gives that crunchy bite Cracker Barrel is known for.

I use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet because it holds heat beautifully and fries evenly without burning the coating. 

The gravy brings it all together, and I always make sure to use the pan drippings (of course, right?!).

If you’re used to frying chicken, turkey cooks even faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Enjoy!

How to Make Cracker Barrel Country Fried Turkey

cracker barrel country fried turkey recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 Turkey Breast (3 lbs.)
  • 5 slices Bacon
  • 1 tbsp Butter
  • 1/4 cup Onion (diced)
  • 4 tbsp Flour
  • 3 cups Milk
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 2 cups Buttermilk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare the turkey breast by soaking it in buttermilk for at least four hours. This helps the meat stay juicy!

Step 2:

Fry the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then set aside. Leave a bit of the bacon grease in the pan.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add diced onions and cook until they are caramelized.

Step 4:

Mix flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Coat the drained turkey with this mixture.

Step 5:

Fry the turkey in a hot oil pan until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

cracker barrel country fried turkey on a plate

Soak It Well!

Marinating the turkey in buttermilk for a longer period, preferably overnight, enhances its savory flavor and tender texture.

Check the Temperature!

Using a meat thermometer ensures your turkey is perfectly cooked and safe to eat while also keeping it juicy.

Crispy Coating!

For a crunchier texture, add a touch more baking powder to the flour mixture before frying the turkey. You won’t regret it!

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Country Fried Turkey Recipe

Classic Mashed Potatoes

A delicious helping of creamy mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of country-fried turkey.

You can make them extra tasty by adding roasted garlic or a hint of cream cheese to the mix.

This side dish is all about enhancing the turkey’s comforting, homey vibe.

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is an all-time favorite companion for turkey, providing a bright burst of tartness that complements the savory flavors.

You can either make it from scratch or grab a can from the store for convenience.

The sweet and tangy notes work beautifully with the crispy fried crust.

Creamy Coleslaw

If you’re looking for a refreshing contrast to the crispy turkey, why not try some creamy coleslaw?

Its crunchy texture and tangy dressing create a nice balance with the richness of the fried turkey.

It’s especially great for adding a bit of crunch to your meal.

Warm Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables

Break away from tradition and indulge in a warm salad featuring roasted vegetables.

The earthy flavors of the veggies paired with a touch of balsamic glaze make for a different but satisfying accompaniment.

This dish adds a hearty and wholesome feel to your turkey feast.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries could be that adventurous side you might be looking for!

Their natural sweetness and crispy edges contrast nicely with the savory fried turkey.

Sprinkle a little bit of paprika or cinnamon sugar for an added touch of flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Spice It Up

You can add more spices to the flour coating if you like a kick in your turkey.

Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of smoked paprika.

These will give your turkey an exciting twist while keeping the original essence.

Buttermilk Brine

If you’re out of buttermilk, don’t worry, you can substitute it with regular milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Mix them and let it sit for a few minutes to curdle.

This simple substitution works like a charm for tenderizing your turkey parts.

Alternative Frying Methods

Air frying is a healthier alternative if you’re watching your oil intake.

It gives you that crispy finish without deep frying.

Just brush the turkey parts lightly with oil and use your air fryer at the same time and temperature as you would deep fry.

Different Turkey Cuts

You can use turkey breast or thighs instead of a whole turkey to make the frying process easier.

Smaller parts are great for quicker meals and ensure even cooking.

Plus, these cuts are easier to handle and marinade!

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Country Fried Turkey

Storing leftover Cracker Barrel Country Fried Turkey properly helps maintain its flavor and texture.

Cooling Thoroughly

Allow the turkey to cool down to room temperature before storing.

It’s important not to leave it out for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Airtight Containers

Place the cooled turkey in airtight containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.

This keeps the turkey from drying out and preserves its taste and moisture.

Refrigerator Storage

Store the wrapped or containerized turkey in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.

It’ll be good to enjoy for up to four days!

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you want to store it longer, freeze the leftovers.

Properly wrapped in freezer-safe bags or containers, the turkey can last for up to two months.

Labeling Techniques

Label your containers with the date of storage. This ensures you keep track of freshness and consuming within the safe timeframe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Brining the Turkey

Brining the turkey is crucial because it keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.

You’ll want to soak it in a saltwater solution for at least 12 hours before cooking.

Skip this step, and you might end up with a dry turkey that no one enjoys.

Overcrowding the Fryer

When it comes to frying, space is your friend!

If the turkey is too tightly packed in the fryer, it won’t cook evenly.

Make sure there’s enough room for the oil to circulate around the turkey to avoid uneven cooking.

Inconsistent Oil Temperature

Keeping the oil temperature steady is important for perfectly fried turkey.

Too cold, and the turkey will absorb too much oil; too hot, and it might burn on the outside.

Use a thermometer to keep the oil between 325°F and 350°F for best results.

cracker barrel country fried turkey recipe

Cracker Barrel Country Fried Turkey Recipe

This Cracker Barrel Country Fried Turkey is everything you want in a homestyle meal—crispy, golden, and downright comforting!
The biggest mistake people make is rushing the dredging process. Take your time pressing the flour mixture into the turkey so it sticks well and gives that crunchy bite Cracker Barrel is known for.
I use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet because it holds heat beautifully and fries evenly without burning the coating. 
The gravy brings it all together, and I always make sure to use the pan drippings (of course, right?!).
If you’re used to frying chicken, turkey cooks even faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Prep Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4
Ingredients
  
  • 1 Turkey Breast 3 lbs.
  • 5 slices Bacon
  • 1 tbsp Butter
  • 1/4 cup Onion diced
  • 4 tbsp Flour
  • 3 cups Milk
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 2 cups Buttermilk
Instructions
 
  • Prepare the turkey breast by soaking it in buttermilk for at least four hours. This helps the meat stay juicy!
  • Fry the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then set aside. Leave a bit of the bacon grease in the pan.
  • In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add diced onions and cook until they are caramelized.
  • Mix flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Coat the drained turkey with this mixture.
  • Fry the turkey in a hot oil pan until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

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Passionate chef, in love with everything related to food and cooking it to perfection!
Michael Cook
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