Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Menu Favorites

For over 50 years, Cracker Barrel has been a favorite in Southern dining. They offer classic comfort food, from their famous fried chicken to homestyle sides. This has made the restaurant popular all over the U.S.

Their Fried Chicken Menu has tasty options, ranging from 320 to 650 calories, with prices from $5.99 to $14.99. Favorites include the Fried Chicken Dinner and Chicken n’ Dumplins. These items have helped make the menu beloved by many.

Trying out these Cracker Barrel favorites lets you enjoy Southern classics. They use quality ingredients and a special seasoning mix. Each dish is a perfect example of the homestyle dining experience Cracker Barrel is known for.

A Brief History of Cracker Barrel

The first Cracker Barrel opened in 1969 in Lebanon, Tennessee. For over 50 years, this restaurant has been a loved icon. It’s famous for its homestyle food and Southern charm.

Origins in Lebanon, Tennessee

Dan Evins opened the first location in Lebanon, Tennessee. This place was both a country store and a restaurant. It was loved for its cozy feel, rustic decor, and home-cooked meals.

At first, Cracker Barrel also had gas stations for travelers. But in the mid-1970s, they stopped because of the oil embargo. They then focused only on food and shopping.

Expansion Across the USA

By 2024, Cracker Barrel grew to 658 locations in 45 states. Each place has a country feel with fireplaces, local decor, and Hinkle Slat Rocker chairs.

The chain focuses on good food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere. Now, it serves over 230 million people a year. It offers a real taste of Southern comfort all over the USA.

What Makes Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Special?

Cracker Barrel’s fried chicken is known for its unique seasoning and careful cooking. Each bite is a delight, filled with a flavor that makes it a favorite in the South.

Unique Seasoning and Preparation

The seasoning for Cracker Barrel’s fried chicken makes it stand out. Its blend of spices is a well-kept secret. This makes every piece tasty and full of flavor. The chicken is soaked in these spices before being fried. This process gives it a golden, crispy outside and a juicy inside. It’s comfort food at its best.

Quality Ingredients and Cooking Process

The Cracker Barrel emphasis on quality ingredients ensures each meal is top-notch. The chicken comes from local farms. This supports local farming and guarantees freshness. Each meal is not only delicious but also supports local communities.

The cooking process at Cracker Barrel is all about showcasing these quality ingredients. The chicken gets a special breading before frying. This method creates a great mix of crunchy and soft textures. It’s a hit with anyone who loves fried chicken.

Southern Fried Chicken

Cracker Barrel’s Southern Fried Chicken is a hit because of its crispy skin and tasty flavor. The magic of this dish is in the quality ingredients and careful cooking.

Ingredients and Cooking Method

It begins with 3 cups of flour, 3 teaspoons each of salt and pepper, and 3 cups of buttermilk. The buttermilk marinade makes the chicken juicy inside.

To fry, oil is heated to 350°F. Chicken is coated in flour, then fried. Depending on their size, pieces cook for 12 to 18 minutes. They end up with a nice crust. One serving gives you 433 calories, 41g of carbs, 26g of protein, and 18g of fat. It’s a filling option.

Popular Side Dishes

The chicken goes well with Cracker Barrel’s loved sides. Favorites include mashed potatoes, mac n’ cheese, and green beans. These sides add to the meal, making it full and rich. They also balance the dish with carbs, protein, and fats.

Chicken Fried Chicken

The Chicken Fried Chicken at Cracker Barrel stands out, beloved for its deep, tasty flavor. It features boneless chicken breasts that are well-seasoned, battered, and deep-fried perfectly. The cooking is done at 350°F until it hits 165°F – making it crispy outside and juicy inside.

One key aspect of the dish is the sawmill gravy. It’s made with bacon grease, flour, and milk or cream, plus spices. This gravy, rich in flavor, is what makes it a true comfort food.

The dish comes with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, and mac and cheese. There’s also salad options for a lighter touch. This variety means there’s something for everyone.

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry. They can stay in the fridge for two days or be frozen for two months. For best results, reheat in an air fryer or oven to keep it crispy.

Many people have given the Chicken Fried Chicken high praise. They love its taste and the warmth it brings. It’s a favorite for many.

Fried Chicken Dinner: A Classic Choice

Cracker Barrel’s Fried Chicken Dinner is a timeless favorite for those who want both quality and affordability. It comes with crispy fried chicken and a choice of tasty sides. This combination makes it a fulfilling meal for many different tastes.

Combination of Sides

The meal’s appeal includes a variety of sides. Guests can choose from biscuits and a variety of seasonal vegetables. These sides enhance the main course and elevate the taste experience.

Affordability and Taste

Cracker Barrel offers meals that are affordable without skimping on flavor. The Fried Chicken Dinner is sensibly priced to give customers great value. It merges good taste with affordability, keeping it a top pick for many.

Fried Chicken & Waffles

Cracker Barrel’s Fried Chicken & Waffles mix sweet and savory in a delicious way. Everyone loves the crispy chicken paired with soft waffles. This combo is a hit for its taste and uniqueness.

Sweet and Savory Experience

Fried Chicken and Waffles together make a unique taste adventure. Syrup on the waffles and savory chicken blend perfectly. This mix pleases many tastes with its flavors and textures.

Perfect Pairing and Presentation

The way Cracker Barrel serves Fried Chicken and Waffles adds to its charm. With golden chicken and crispy waffles, it looks great. The syrup and powdered sugar make it even more special. This careful presentation enhances the meal and experience.

Chicken N’ Dumplins

Cracker Barrel’s Chicken N’ Dumplins is a crowd-pleaser. It mixes soft dumplings and tender chicken in a creamy broth. It embodies Southern comfort food and classic homestyle cooking.

This dish costs $11.49 and has 900 calories. Chicken N’ Dumplins is a hearty, affordable meal. It showcases Cracker Barrel’s dedication to quality Southern food.

If you’re allergic to dairy, be careful with this dish. It’s not for gluten-free eaters, but it’s loved by fans of Southern cuisine. Plus, you can get it for $9.99 on Mondays as a Daily Special.

Dietary and Allergen Information

Dining at Cracker Barrel is always a treat, offering a wide range of meals. They focus on serving various dietary needs. This means you’ll find gluten-free options along with a detailed allergen guide. So, if you’re avoiding gluten or have other dietary limits, Cracker Barrel tries to ease your concerns.

Gluten-Free Options

Even though their famous fried chicken might have gluten, there’s no need to worry. Cracker Barrel has got you covered with a selection of gluten-free meals. These options ensure that everyone can enjoy their delicious dishes without having to compromise their dietary requirements.

Other Dietary Considerations

Cracker Barrel also pays close attention to allergens, making dining safe for everyone. With options that are dairy-free and low in calories, they cater to many dietary needs. This allows everyone to find something they can enjoy without worry.

Customer Favorites: What to Try First

Visiting Cracker Barrel for the first time might seem daunting due to its large menu. Yet, certain dishes have emerged as top picks among customers. We’ve gathered these favorites based on what guests love most to make your visit unforgettable.

Top Recommendations

These are the dishes that have captured the hearts of Cracker Barrel fans:

• Southern Fried Chicken: For $14.98, this meal offers four large pieces of fried chicken and mac and cheese. You can add pancakes for $2. Its crispy breading with a peppery taste is a hit.
• Chicken N’ Dumplins: This dish is a go-to comfort food for many.
• Old Timer’s Breakfast: Priced at $10.49, it comes with two eggs, grits, buttermilk biscuits with sawmill gravy, and a choice between bacon or sausage. The biscuits are a favorite, but the cornbread muffins might not be for everyone.
• Country Boy Breakfast Plate: This plate features country ham and wins over many diners.
• Chicken Fried Chicken: It’s a loved meal topped with Sawmill Gravy.
• Meatloaf: A traditional dinner beloved for its mix of tomatoes, onions, and green peppers.
• Hashbrown Casserole: Loved by guests at any time of the day.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customers often praise the Southern Fried Chicken for its perfect texture and flavor. The mac and cheese is called out for being creamy and rich, much like dishes from the South. The pancakes also get love for their buttery flavor and excellent batter. But some diners think the grits could use more flavor, and the cornbread muffins sometimes disappoint.

Favorites like Chicken N’ Dumplins and the Country Boy Breakfast Plate always get high marks. Choosing between sides like fried okra, turnip greens, fried apples, and pinto beans can be tough. Many guests say they’re all great additions to a meal.

Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Menu

Cracker Barrel’s menu offers a variety of fried chicken dishes. There’s something for everyone. This includes classic favorites and new dishes. Here are the highlights of the fried chicken menu.

The fried chicken at Cracker Barrel is made with quality ingredients. They use a special seasoning that makes the flavor unique. These dishes are perfect for any meal, whether eating in or taking out.

Aside from classic dishes, Cracker Barrel also has various sides. These complete your meal. Whether you want something traditional or a new twist, there are many choices.

Trying Cracker Barrel’s menu shows why these dishes are loved. The flavors and variety make dining there enjoyable every time.

In-Store Dining vs. Takeout: What to Expect

When deciding between Cracker Barrel’s dine-in or takeout, think about the experience you want. Each choice provides benefits for different tastes and needs.

Eating in at Cracker Barrel offers a cozy, homestyle feel. The decor takes you back, creating a nostalgic vibe. It’s ideal for those who love dining in a comforting place with their favorite Cracker Barrel dishes.

Takeout services are all about convenience and flexibility. You can order online or through mobile apps. This choice fits busy lives or those who prefer eating at home.

Cracker Barrel has expanded its takeout options. Now, there’s curbside pickup, delivery through DoorDash, and catering. Both dining in and takeout guarantee the same great quality and flavor.

Aspect	In-Store Dining	Takeout Services
Ambiance	Classic, Homely	N/A
Convenience	Moderate	High
Order Options	Dine-In	Online, Mobile App
Service Flexibility	Set Hours	Curbside, Home Delivery
Payment Methods	All Accepted	All Accepted

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel’s fried chicken is all about quality, comfort, and tradition. They use unique seasoning and careful preparation. Plus, the sides bring a taste of Southern hospitality right to your table.

The menu has favorites like the Southern Fried Chicken Family Meal for $57.99 with 6,510 calories. There’s also the Homestyle Chicken n’ French Toast Family Meal at $46.99 with 5,250 calories. Single dishes like the Homestyle Chicken for $12.49 with 980 calories, and the Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken at $13.64 with 850 calories, meet many taste preferences without breaking the bank.

Aside from fried chicken, Cracker Barrel offers sides, desserts, and unique items. The Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake is $20.49. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, Cracker Barrel aims for a pleasant and tasty experience.

To sum up, Cracker Barrel blends taste, tradition, and value beautifully. With top-notch ingredients and a cozy atmosphere, it invites guests for a memorable meal every time.

FAQ

What are the most popular items on the Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken Menu?

The most loved items are the Southern Fried Chicken and Chicken Fried Chicken. Also, the Fried Chicken Dinner and Fried Chicken & Waffles are favorites.

Does Cracker Barrel offer gluten-free options?

Yes, Cracker Barrel offers options for different diets, including gluten-free choices.

How is the fried chicken prepared at Cracker Barrel?

The chicken at Cracker Barrel is seasoned with unique spices. It’s fried until it’s golden. Then, it’s served with yummy Southern sides.

What sides can I expect with my fried chicken meal?

Expect delicious sides like mashed potatoes and mac n’ cheese. Green beans and warm biscuits are also popular.

Are there any specialty chicken dishes at Cracker Barrel?

Yes. Try the Chicken Fried Chicken with Sawmill Gravy. Don’t miss out on the Chicken N’ Dumplins, a true Southern treat.