Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Tenderloin Recipe

Cracker Barrel’s Fried Chicken Tenderloins is a favorite not just for its flavor but also for its tender, juicy texture.

The secret to achieving this is the buttermilk marinade, which adds both taste and moisture to the chicken.

I recommend using a cast-iron skillet for frying to achieve an even, crispy coating.

And don’t forget to drain the tenderloins on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.

Let’s make this!

How to Make Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Tenderloin Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Chicken Tenderloins
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 cup Water
• 3 cups Oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix the flour, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

Set aside for breading later.

Step 2:

In another bowl, blend buttermilk and water to create a smooth mixture.

This will help keep the chicken moist during cooking.

Step 3:

Dip each chicken tenderloin into the buttermilk mix.

Then, coat it thoroughly with the seasoned flour.

Repeat this for all tenderloins to form a good layer of breading.

Step 4:

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.

Carefully add the tenderloins in batches to prevent overcrowding.

Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5:

Remove the tenderloins from oil and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Serve while hot.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Proper Oil Temperature

Always make sure the oil is at 350°F to ensure a crispy coating without the chicken becoming greasy.

Using a thermometer helps maintain the perfect frying temperature.

Avoid Overcrowding

Fry chicken tenderloins in small batches to prevent them from sticking together.

This allows for even cooking and better crispiness.

Flavor Variations

Try adding a tablespoon of paprika or garlic powder to the flour mix for an extra layer of flavor.

You can also incorporate some dried herbs for a different taste profile.

Rest Time

Let the chicken rest on paper towels after frying but not too long; otherwise, they might lose their crispiness.

Serve them relatively soon after frying for the best texture.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Tenderloins

Mac and Cheese

You can’t go wrong pairing your fried chicken tenderloins with a warm, creamy bowl of mac and cheese.

The rich, cheesy goodness complements the crispy texture of the chicken perfectly and creates a comforting meal.

Southern Green Beans

A side of Southern-style green beans adds a fresh and satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with fried chicken.

Cook the beans with a little bacon or ham for an extra smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Try serving your chicken with baked sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness that contrasts the savory flavors.

You can bake them until tender and top with a bit of cinnamon and butter for extra richness.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad brings a bright, tangy note to your meal.

The crisp vegetables mixed with a light vinaigrette cleanses the palate beautifully between bites of savory chicken.

Jalapeño Cornbread

For something a little different, a side of jalapeño cornbread offers a moist, slightly spicy kick.

This dish provides a unique twist on traditional cornbread and adds an exciting flavor profile to your meal.

Variations and Substitutions

There’s plenty of room to play around with this Cracker Barrel fried chicken tenderloin recipe!

You can use different cuts of chicken if you like.

Chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks can work well in this recipe.

Switching up the seasonings is another great way to customize the flavor!

You might try adding a pinch of cayenne for some extra heat, or keep it mild with just salt and pepper.

Buttermilk gives the chicken a nice, tender texture, but you can make a substitute if needed.

Combine half a cup of milk with half a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, and let it sit for a few minutes.

And don’t forget to experiment with side dishes!

Pair the chicken with classic Cracker Barrel sides, or get creative with vegetables or salads that you love.

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Tenderloin Recipe

Once you’ve enjoyed a delicious meal, it’s important to know how to store those tasty leftover chicken tenderloins properly.

First, make sure the chicken has cooled to room temperature to avoid condensation.

Use an airtight container or wrap the chicken thoroughly in plastic wrap and foil. This will keep it fresh and maintain its flavor.

Now, let’s keep that leftover chicken tasty and safe for later!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcrowding your pan!

When you fry too many pieces of chicken at once, it can cause the oil temperature to drop.

This leads to greasy and unevenly cooked chicken, which is not what you want.

Skipping the Marinade

Never skip the marinating process for the chicken tenderloins before cooking.

The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, which makes a big difference in taste.

Give it at least a couple of hours for maximum impact.

Inconsistent Oil Temperature

Make sure you maintain a consistent oil temperature when frying.

Use a thermometer to keep an accurate eye on the heat.

If the oil gets too cold or too hot, it can result in chicken that is dry inside and over-browned outside.