Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Recipe

Craving some Cracker Barrel fried chicken heaven at home?

I got you as I’ve got the copycat magic goin’ strong with this one!

Starting with the right seasoning is key—mix together flour, salt, and pepper to coat the chicken thoroughly.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to heat the oil to 350°F to get that nice, crunchy exterior.

Using buttermilk not only helps the breading stick, but it also adds a delicious tangy flavor that I just love.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Pieces of your Favorite Chicken
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Pepper
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 cup Water
• Oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

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

Let it heat while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2:

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

Mix it well to ensure it’s evenly seasoned.

Step 3:

In another bowl, blend the buttermilk and water.

This mixture will help your coating stick to the chicken.

Step 4:

Pat the chicken dry using paper towels.

Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then the buttermilk mixture, and back into the flour.

Shake off any excess flour.

Step 5:

Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil.

Fry for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

Use a meat thermometer to confirm reaching a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use a Thermometer:

Always use a thermometer to check the oil temperature and the chicken’s internal heat for safety and optimal texture.

Don’t Overcrowd:

Fry a few pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and crisply.

Rest Before Frying:

Let the dredged chicken sit for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick better.

Use Fresh Oil:

Ensure your frying oil is fresh to prevent unwanted flavors which can ruin the experience.

Adjust Seasonings:

Feel free to tweak your seasonings in the flour to match your taste. Smoked paprika or garlic powder can add an extra flavor dimension.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken

Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with a classic side of mashed potatoes!

Creamy and smooth, they complement the crispy texture of fried chicken beautifully.

Add a knob of butter and a splash of milk to get the perfect consistency.

Cornbread

Sweet, crumbly cornbread makes for an excellent companion to fried chicken.

It’s easy to make, and you can even add a hint of honey to the batter.

You’ll love the mix of sweet and savory on your plate!

Green Beans

A simple side of cooked green beans works well to balance the richness of fried chicken.

Lightly sauté them in garlic butter for a flavorful twist.

These greens add the perfect amount of freshness to your meal.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw gives you that crunchy, tangy contrast every fried chicken meal needs.

Chop some cabbage and carrots, and toss them with a creamy dressing.

This refreshing side dish is quick to make and refreshing.

Watermelon Salad

For something unexpected, try serving a watermelon salad alongside your fried chicken.

Cubed watermelon mixed with feta cheese and mint offers a refreshing twist.

It’s a sweet and savory mixture that surprises and delights on the same plate.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you’re feeling adventurous, roasted Brussels sprouts can be a great choice.

Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy.

These little cabbages are perfect with the hearty taste of fried chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

Spice Level

You can customize the spice level of your Cracker Barrel fried chicken by adjusting the pepper or adding a pinch of cayenne.

For those who prefer a milder flavor, stick to salt and pepper for seasoning.

Adding paprika can offer a subtle smoky flavor without overwhelming heat.

Coating Options

Experiment with different flour types for the coating.

Switching to whole wheat flour can add a nutty taste and create a slightly denser crust.

For a gluten-free option, use rice flour or a gluten-free baking mix.

Marinade Alternatives

If you’re out of buttermilk, combine regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a quick substitute.

Yogurt is another great option, providing tenderness and moisture to your chicken.

Each alternative produces slightly different textures and flavors, so feel free to get creative in your kitchen!

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken

Keeping leftover fried chicken crispy can be a challenge, but I’ve got you covered!

Make sure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before you move forward.

You don’t want any condensation to form, which can wreck that delightful crunch.

Use the Right Containers

You should always choose airtight containers for storing your fried chicken.

Opt for shallow ones if possible, as they help prevent the chicken from getting soggy.

Avoid overcrowding the pieces to maintain the crispiness.

Keeping It Crispy

Line your container with a paper towel before adding the chicken.

This simple trick helps absorb any excess oil that could make the chicken less crispy.

If you’re stacking pieces, place another layer of paper towel between them for extra protection.

Refrigeration Tips

Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days.

Keep the chicken on a higher shelf where the temperature is more consistent.

The fridge can help maintain the texture and flavor better than leaving it out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Pan

You might be tempted to fry all the chicken pieces at once.
Avoid doing this as it lowers the temperature of the oil.
Fry in batches for a golden-brown delight!

Forgetting to Check Oil Temperature

It’s crucial to maintain the correct oil temperature for frying.
Low temps mean soggy chicken, while overly hot oil can burn it.
Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F.

Skipping the Resting Step

Let your fried chicken rest on a wire rack before serving.
This keeps it crispy by letting excess oil drip off.
Serve it straight away for maximum crunch!