How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

If you’re craving the comforting, crispy, and juicy flavor of a southern classic, then you’re in the right place. This easy-to-follow recipe for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders brings that beloved restaurant favorite right into your own kitchen. Perfectly breaded and seasoned, these chicken tenders deliver mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that are easy to find and budget-friendly.
• Perfect texture: Crispy on the outside and tender and juicy inside, just like the original.
• Family favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, great for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with different spices or dipping sauces to suit your taste.
• Quick prep: Ready in under an hour, making it accessible even on busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making perfect Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders starts with a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building flavor, creating crunch, and ensuring juicy chicken every time.

• Chicken tenders: The star of the show, fresh chicken tenders or chicken breast cut into strips work perfectly.
• Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken while adding a subtle tang and moisture.
• Flour: Provides the base for the crispy coating and helps spice and breadcrumbs stick.
• Breadcrumbs or panko: Adds an extra crunchy layer for that signature texture.
• Spices and seasoning blend: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of cayenne to bring warmth and depth.
• Eggs: Acts as a binding agent between the flour and breadcrumbs.
• Vegetable oil: For frying, ensures an even, golden crust without greasiness.

Variations for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

Feel free to make this recipe your own by playing around with flavors and techniques. It’s so easy to customize Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Oven-baked option: Swap frying for baking to lighten up the dish while still keeping it crispy.
• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for those who love heat.
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to cater to gluten sensitivities.
• Herb infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into your breading for an aromatic twist.
• Buttermilk swap: Use Greek yogurt or a milk and lemon juice combo if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.

How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by rinsing your chicken tenders and patting them dry. If using chicken breast, slice it evenly into tender-sized strips to ensure uniform cooking.

Step 2: Marinate in buttermilk

Place the chicken pieces into a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours, in the fridge to tenderize the meat and infuse it with moisture and flavor.

Step 3: Mix the dry coating

In one shallow bowl, combine flour with your spices—paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne for a subtle heat. In another bowl, whisk eggs. Finally, have your panko or breadcrumbs ready in a third bowl for the final coating.

Step 4: Coat the chicken

Dip each marinated chicken piece first in the seasoned flour, then into the egg wash, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs or panko. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well on every piece.

Step 5: Fry to golden perfection

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. When hot, carefully add the tenders and fry in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Drain and rest

Once cooked, place the tenders on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest a few minutes before serving to lock in juiciness and maintain crispiness.

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

• Even coating: Pat chicken dry before dredging to help the breading stick better and create a crunchier crust.
• Oil temperature: Keep the oil around 350°F to 375°F to avoid greasy or soggy tenders.
• Don’t overcrowd: Fry in small batches so the temperature stays consistent and chicken cooks evenly.
• Use a wire rack: Draining cooked tenders on a wire rack keeps them crispy instead of sitting in oil.
• Marinate longer: The longer chicken soaks in buttermilk, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.

How to Serve Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or chopped chives add a pop of color and a fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the crispy tenders.

Side Dishes

Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or crispy fries to round out the southern comfort meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve tenders in a warm biscuit sandwich with honey mustard sauce, or create a dipping board with a variety of sauces like ranch, barbecue, or spicy aioli for entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and crispy.

Freezing

Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 2 months to enjoy later with minimal loss of flavor.

Reheating

Reheat tenders in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 400°F for 20-25 minutes on a greased baking sheet gives you a healthier option while keeping the tenders crispy and flavorful.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a simple substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I keep the chicken tenders crispy after cooking?

Place them on a wire rack instead of paper towels and avoid covering them while still warm, so steam doesn’t soften the coating.

Can I prepare the breading and coating process ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the breading stations and even marinate the chicken a few hours ahead to speed up cooking later.

What dipping sauces pair well with Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders?

Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or a spicy garlic aioli for extra flavor dimension.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so satisfying about biting into crispy, juicy Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders homemade with love. This recipe is remarkable because it brings that restaurant magic straight to your kitchen with simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless customization options. I encourage you to try it out and watch it become your new favorite comfort food staple. Happy cooking!

Related Posts

• Why Creamy Bacon & Mushroom Pasta Is a Must-Try
• Easy Mini Chicken Pot Pie Muffins to Try
• How to Make the Ultimate Pizza Burger

Print