Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken is a delicious, homestyle dish that brings the taste of Southern comfort food straight to your kitchen. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken pieces that are perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden, crispy perfection. With a flavorful, crunchy coating made from a blend of spices and flour, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by succulent chicken that’s moist and flavorful. Ideal for a family dinner, this fried chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in chicken pieces (such as thighs and drumsticks)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, and hot sauce (if using). Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off, and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing the coating firmly onto the chicken. Set the coated chicken aside on a plate.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C) for frying.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Adjust the heat as needed to maintain the oil temperature.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken is best enjoyed fresh from the skillet, with its irresistible crispy coating and juicy interior. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete, comforting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
