Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel features tender, juicy chicken breast hand-breaded and fried to a golden crisp, served with creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful country-style gravy for a comforting, Southern-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Deep fryer or large skillet
- Tongs
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Meat tenderizer
- Plate or tray (for dredging)
- Paper towels
- Saucepan (for gravy)
- Potato masher or ricer
- Peeler (for potatoes, optional)
- Pot (for boiling potatoes)
- Serving plates
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For mashed potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Salt
- Black pepper
- For country-style gravy:
- 1/4 cup pan drippings or butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt
- Black pepper
Russet potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, which yields a smooth texture when boiled and mashed. Buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken breasts but also adds a subtle tang that enhances the flavor profile of your fried chicken. Using whole milk in both mashed potatoes and gravy ensures a rich, creamy consistency that complements the dish's Southern flair. Choose a neutral vegetable oil with a high smoke point for frying to achieve a crispy, golden crust on the chicken without burning the breading. Your Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel copycat meal will deliver authentic comfort food flavors when these ingredient tips are carefully followed.
Instructions
- Flatten chicken breasts to even thickness using a meat tenderizer.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and buttermilk together.
- In another bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne.
- Dredge chicken in flour mixture, dip in buttermilk mixture, then dredge again in flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through, turning once with tongs.
- Remove chicken and drain on paper towels.
- Peel and chop potatoes; boil in salted water until tender.
- Drain potatoes and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- For gravy: In saucepan, heat pan drippings or butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk; cook, whisking, until thickened.
- Season gravy with salt and pepper.
- Serve chicken over mashed potatoes, topped with country-style gravy.
Substitution
Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel copycat menu offers a crispy hand-breaded chicken breast paired with creamy mashed potatoes and rich country-style gravy. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute it by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. When frying, using a deep fryer ensures even cooking and crispiness, but a large skillet with enough vegetable oil will work as well. Russet potatoes are ideal for fluffy mashed potatoes, but Yukon Golds can also be used for a creamier texture. For your gravy, whole milk can be replaced with 2% milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
Tips
Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness to promote uniform cooking and prevent dryness. Maintain the oil temperature at 350degF (175degC) to achieve a crispy, golden crust without undercooking the chicken inside. Drain fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping it crisp rather than soggy. When mashing potatoes, use russets for fluffiness, and incorporate butter and milk gradually for creamy texture that complements your country-style gravy perfectly.
Nutritions
Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel is a hearty meal rich in protein from the hand-breaded, boneless chicken breasts, providing essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth. The mashed potatoes contribute carbohydrates and potassium, essential for energy and proper muscle function, while butter and whole milk add fats and calcium to support bone health. The country-style gravy contains pan drippings that supply some fat content, enhancing caloric intake but should be consumed in moderation due to possible sodium levels. You can balance this Southern-inspired dish with a side of vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake for a more nutritionally complete meal.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Fried Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Keep mashed potatoes and country-style gravy in separate containers to preserve texture and avoid sogginess. Consume refrigerated portions within 3-4 days; reheat thoroughly before serving to ensure safety and optimal flavor for your meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts to keep the meat juicier and add more flavor. Instead of frying, try baking the breaded chicken at 400degF (200degC) for 25-30 minutes to reduce oil usage while maintaining crispiness. For creamier mashed potatoes, use Yukon Gold potatoes and incorporate sour cream or cream cheese along with butter and milk. Swap whole milk with buttermilk or half-and-half in your country-style gravy to create a tangier, richer sauce.
Allergies
Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy (buttermilk, butter, whole milk), and wheat (all-purpose flour), which may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Cross-contact with vegetable oil used for frying could also be a concern for those with specific food sensitivities. Be sure to check ingredient labels carefully and inform your server if you have food allergies to ensure your meal is safe to enjoy.
Why this recipe?
People enjoy the Chicken Fried Chicken from Cracker Barrel for its crispy, golden-brown breading and tender, juicy meat that delivers a satisfying blend of Southern comfort flavors. The dish features a perfectly seasoned coating with just the right balance of spices that complement the hearty chicken inside. Your taste buds will appreciate the authentic farmhouse style preparation that brings nostalgic memories and a homestyle dining experience. Trying to make a copycat recipe allows you to recreate this beloved flavor at home, ensuring quality ingredients and customizing seasoning to match your personal preference.