Cracker Barrel Oven Baked Chicken Recipe

My entire family absolutely loves Cracker Barrel’s oven-baked chicken.

This recipe brings together simple ingredients into a dish that’s a breeze to make at home.

You’ll be surprised how the cornflakes give a crunch that rivals the restaurant’s version.

Using buttermilk in the marinade ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful.

Let’s get to it!

How to Make Cracker Barrel Oven Baked Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb Chicken Breasts
• 3 cups Cornflakes (roughly crushed)
• 1½ cups Buttermilk
• ¾ cup Whole Wheat Flour
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 1 tbsp Dry Chicken Essence
• 1 tbsp Onion Powder
• 1 tbsp Paprika
• 2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 2 tsp Dried Thyme
• 2 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1 tsp Ground White Pepper
• 1 tsp Dried Ginger
• Cooking Spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Spray your baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and Dijon mustard.

Mix well, then place your chicken breasts in the mixture to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornflakes, and all the herbs and spices.

Coat each marinated chicken breast with the cornflake mixture.

Step 4:

Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking pan.

Give them some space to ensure even cooking.

Step 5:

Bake in the oven for about 30 to 40 minutes.

Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Crushing Cornflakes

Try to keep cornflakes roughly crushed for a crispy texture on the chicken.

If they are too fine, the coating may not have the same crunch.

Marinating Time

Don’t cut the marinating time short, as it really helps in enhancing the flavor of the chicken.

You can even marinate overnight if time permits.

Spice Adjustments

Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference.

If you like spicy food, add a bit more paprika or some cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Oven Position

Bake the chicken in the oven’s middle rack to prevent the top from overbaking while ensuring the bottom crisps up nicely.

This helps in achieving even browning on both sides.

Checking Doneness

To make sure your chicken doesn’t overcook, use a meat thermometer.

It’s the best method to confirm it reaches the right temperature for safe eating.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Oven Baked Chicken

Classic Mashed Potatoes

A classic choice is mashed potatoes, offering a comforting and creamy complement to the crispy chicken.

Fresh Green Beans

Green beans, lightly sautéed with garlic, provide a fresh and simple addition to your meal.

Zesty Greek Pasta Salad

Add a little zest to your dinner with a Greek pasta salad.

This salad bursts with flavors from olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano, adding a Mediterranean twist to your dish.

Sweet Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes can add a touch of sweetness to contrast with the savory chicken.

To make them, just toss the sweet potatoes in olive oil and sprinkle them with cinnamon before roasting.

Light and Creamy Cauliflower Mash

Consider something a bit out of the ordinary like cauliflower mash.

It’s a lighter alternative, with a creamy texture that won’t overpower your main course.

Simply cook the cauliflower until tender and mash with some butter and garlic.

Southern-Style Cornbread

For a southern twist, think about cornbread.

The slightly sweet and crumbly texture pairs wonderfully with the hearty flavors of the chicken and adds a bit of southern charm to your dinner table.

Mix and Match for a Perfect Meal

Experiment with these combinations, and your Cracker Barrel oven baked chicken dinner is sure to be a hit!

Variations and Substitutions

Spice and Flavor Twists

You can easily jazz up your Cracker Barrel oven-baked chicken by experimenting with spices.

Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.

Alternatively, use a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer some heat in your baked chicken!

Crunchy Coating Alternatives

If you’re not a fan of cornflakes, don’t worry!

You can substitute with crushed Ritz crackers or even panko breadcrumbs.

Each brings a different texture and taste, so feel free to see which crunch appeals to you.

Dairy-Free Options

For a dairy-free version, swap buttermilk with almond or coconut milk.

Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to mimic the tangy flavor of buttermilk.

You’ll find the texture and flavor still satisfyingly delicious!

Herb Substitutions

Dried herbs like thyme and oregano can be swapped for fresh ones if you’ve got them on hand.

Consider using rosemary for a more aromatic twist on the classic baked chicken.

Fresh herbs tend to add a vibrant flavor that enhances the overall dish!

How to Store Leftover Oven Baked Chicken

When you’ve indulged in your oven baked chicken, it’s time to think about storing those tasty leftovers.

You want to keep them fresh and flavorful for the days ahead!

Refrigerating Your Chicken

Place your leftover chicken in an airtight container.

This keeps it moist and helps prevent contamination.

You can enjoy it within three days when stored in the fridge!

Freezing for Later

If you’re not planning to eat it soon, freezing is the way to go.

Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.

Remember to label the bag with the date so you know when you first stored it.

Portion Control

It’s smart to portion your chicken before storing.

Separate it into individual servings to make future meals easier.

This way, you only defrost what you need and don’t waste any food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcrowding the baking dish with too much chicken, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Leaving the chicken skin on can result in excess grease pooling around the chicken.

Consider removing the skin before baking for a cleaner end result.

Underseasoning is a common issue that can leave your dish lacking flavor.

Don’t be afraid to add a bit more seasoning according to your taste to enhance the flavor of the chicken and coating.