The Crispiest Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Recipe

Craving a delightful copycat cracker barrel chicken tenders that brings nostalgia to your plate?

Southern comfort knows no bounds with this crispy, golden recipe that feels like a warm hug.

Crisp coating meets tender meat in a dance of flavors that’ll make you swoon.

Memories of roadside diners and family road trips flood back with each bite.

Home cooking doesn’t get more authentic than these perfectly seasoned chicken strips that rival the restaurant classic.

Professional chefs might argue, but nothing beats a recipe that captures pure, simple deliciousness.

Grab your apron and let’s create magic that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips To Help With Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

• Maximize Marination Magic: Let the chicken soak in the Italian dressing mixture for the full 8 hours to ensure deep, tangy flavor that penetrates every bite of the tender.
• Perfect Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F internally, guaranteeing safe and juicy results without overcooking.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap regular Italian dressing for a gluten-free version and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for coating to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the marinade for an extra kick of flavor that transforms the classic Cracker Barrel-style chicken tenders.
• Meal Prep Hack: Prepare a larger batch of marinated chicken tenders and freeze them in individual portions for quick weeknight dinners that save time and effort.

How To Store Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Right

• Refrigerate leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
• These delicious tenders stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
• Wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the container to maintain moisture and prevent them from drying out.
• When reheating, use the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and keep the inside juicy.
• Avoid microwaving, which can make the chicken tough and rubbery.
• Freeze cooled chicken tenders in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date to track freshness.
• Thaw frozen tenders overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve their delicious flavor and texture.

Pairing Suggestions For Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

• Craft Zesty Beverage Companion: Pair these chicken tenders with a crisp, cold craft beer like an amber ale or wheat beer that complements the honey-lime marinade's tangy sweetness.
• Pop Refreshing Soda Match: Grab a classic cola or root beer to balance the savory chicken's richness, cutting through the crispy exterior with bubbly brightness.
• Enhance Creamy Side Kick: Serve alongside a cool ranch or buttermilk dipping sauce that echoes the Italian dressing's herbal notes and provides a smooth, creamy contrast to the tender's crunchy texture.
• Elevate Southern Comfort Plate: Complement the dish with a chilled sweet tea, a traditional Southern beverage that perfectly matches the homestyle feel of Cracker Barrel-inspired chicken tenders.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Variations To Try

• Southern Ranch Style: Replace Italian dressing with buttermilk and ranch seasoning for a tangy Southern-inspired marinade. The ranch adds extra zest and creates a richer coating that Southern food lovers will appreciate.
• Spicy Cajun Version: Mix Cajun seasoning into the marinade and coat chicken with spicy breadcrumbs before cooking. This variation brings bold Louisiana-style heat and robust flavor to the classic recipe.
• Herb Garden Chicken: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley into the marinade. These herbs infuse the chicken with bright, garden-fresh flavors and create an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired dish.
• Gluten-Free Crispy Option: Swap traditional breading with almond flour or crushed gluten-free cornflakes for a crunchy exterior. This version ensures celiac-friendly tenders without compromising the golden, crispy texture.

FAQs On Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

• Why marinate the chicken in Italian dressing?

The Italian dressing helps tenderize the chicken, adds incredible flavor, and keeps the meat juicy. The combination of herbs, oil, and acid from the dressing breaks down proteins, making each bite more delicious and soft.

• Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken tenders work best, you can also use chicken breasts cut into strips or even chicken thighs. Just ensure they’re similar in thickness for even cooking.

• Is this recipe spicy or kid-friendly?

This copycat Cracker Barrel chicken recipe is mild and super kid-friendly. The honey in the marinade adds a gentle sweetness that most children love, making it a perfect family meal.

• How can I make these tenders extra crispy?

To get a crispier exterior, pat the chicken dry before cooking and consider coating them lightly in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs. This will create a delightful crunch while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Why Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Are Popular

• Quick and Easy Prep: Whip up these copycat chicken tenders with minimal effort using just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen skills. The marinade can be mixed in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute meal planning.
• Flavor-Packed Marinade: The combination of Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice creates a mouthwatering blend that tenderizes and infuses the chicken with incredible taste. This simple marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy dish that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Enjoy flexible cooking methods that suit your mood or kitchen setup. Whether you prefer the stovetop skillet or want to fire up the grill, these chicken tenders cook quickly and evenly in just 8-10 minutes total.
• Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love these crispy, flavorful chicken tenders that pair perfectly with classic comfort sides. The recipe is simple enough for weeknight meals yet delicious enough to impress at family gatherings or casual get-togethers.

What Goes Into Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

• Chicken Tenders: Lean, tender meat strips that absorb marinade flavors and create a juicy, flavorful main dish. Best when fresh and trimmed of excess fat.

• Italian Dressing, Honey, Lime Juice: Combination provides tangy, sweet, and acidic notes that tenderize and enhance chicken flavor. Italian dressing adds herbal complexity, honey brings sweetness, and lime juice offers bright acidity.

• Skillet, Grill Pan, Outdoor Grill: Versatile cooking surfaces that help achieve golden-brown exterior and ensure even cooking. Cast iron or non-stick pans work best for stovetop method, while outdoor grill adds smoky char.

Steps For Making Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Marinade Magic

• Italian dressing
• Honey
• Fresh lime juice

Add chicken tenders and gently coat them with the marinade. Seal in a container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors soak in deeply.

Step 2: Create Crispy Coating

• All-purpose flour
• Paprika
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Step 3: Dredge Chicken Perfectly

Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Roll each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place coated chicken tenders into the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Drain and Rest

Transfer fried tenders to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes to maintain crispiness.

Step 6: Serve and Delight

• Ranch
• Honey mustard
• Barbecue sauce

Serving Suggestions:

Pair with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or warm cornbread for a complete Cracker Barrel-inspired meal.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.8 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders deliver southern comfort with crispy, golden perfection straight from your kitchen. Juicy chicken strips coated in seasoned breading promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1.5 pounds chicken tenders (or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)

Liquid Marinade and Sweetener:

• ½ cup Italian dressing
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

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Instructions

1. Immerse the chicken tenders in a zesty marinade combining tangy Italian dressing, golden honey, and bright lime juice, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
2. Seal the marinating chicken in a secure container and refrigerate, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for enhanced taste and tenderness.
3. Select your preferred cooking method: stovetop or grill, preparing the surface to a medium heat for optimal cooking conditions.
4. For stovetop preparation, place the marinated chicken tenders onto a heated skillet, cooking each side until a rich golden-brown exterior develops and the internal temperature reaches safe consumption levels.
5. Alternatively, for grilling enthusiasts, position the tenders across preheated grill grates, rotating midway to achieve even caramelization and perfect doneness.
6. Monitor cooking time carefully, typically 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring the chicken remains juicy and thoroughly cooked without becoming dry.
7. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken tenders from heat and allow a brief resting period to redistribute internal moisture.
8. Present the succulent tenders alongside complementary accompaniments like creamy mashed potatoes, vibrant green beans, or traditional southern cornbread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Notes

• Customize the marinade by swapping Italian dressing with buttermilk for a tangier, more tender result that helps break down chicken proteins.
• Adjust cooking times based on tender thickness, using a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety without overcooking.
• Transform this recipe into a gluten-free version by substituting regular flour with almond or coconut flour during breading, maintaining the crispy texture while accommodating dietary restrictions.
• Elevate leftovers by chopping cold tenders into salads or wraps, maximizing meal versatility and reducing food waste with creative repurposing.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 21 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg