Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders: A Family Favorite Recipe

Cracker Barrel is known for its comforting Southern-style dishes, and one of its most popular menu items is the grilled chicken tenders.

These juicy, slightly sweet, and tangy tenders are marinated to perfection, making them a fan favorite.

If you’ve ever wanted to recreate the Cracker Barrel chicken tenders at home, you’re in luck!

This simple and delicious copycat recipe brings you the same mouthwatering flavors with just a few pantry ingredients.

Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, meal prep, or a weekend cookout, these tenders will surely impress.

Get ready to enjoy restaurant-quality chicken tenders right in your kitchen—without the wait!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Cracker Barrel chicken tenders recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – You only need a few simple ingredients to achieve that classic Cracker Barrel taste.
• Quick and Easy – Just marinate, cook, and enjoy in under 30 minutes (excluding marination time).
• Healthier Than Takeout – These tenders are grilled (or pan-seared) instead of deep-fried, making them a better-for-you option.
• Versatile Cooking Options – You can make them on the stovetop, grill, or even in an air fryer.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – The flavors get even better over time, making them great for leftovers.

If you love Cracker Barrel’s homestyle cooking, this easy chicken tenders recipe will become a staple in your meal rotation!

Ingredients Needed

To make these Cracker Barrel-inspired chicken tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)

For the Marinade:

• 1 cup Italian dressing (for a rich, herby flavor)
• 2 tablespoons honey (adds a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (for tanginess and tenderness)

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for a subtle garlicky kick)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
• Salt & black pepper to taste

These simple ingredients create a perfectly balanced marinade that infuses the chicken with sweet, tangy, and savory flavors—just like the original Cracker Barrel version!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Cracker Barrel-style chicken tenders at home is easy and requires just three simple steps: marinate, cook, and serve.

Follow these detailed instructions to achieve the best results.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice until well combined.
2. If using optional seasonings (garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper), add them to the marinade and mix thoroughly.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken tenders in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
3. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (for the best flavor, marinate for 4 hours or overnight).

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Stovetop Method (Most Similar to Cracker Barrel’s Version)

1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly grease with oil or nonstick spray.
2. Remove chicken tenders from the marinade (letting excess drip off) and place them in the hot pan.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until the tenders develop a nice golden-brown color and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Grill Method (Smoky & Charred Flavor)

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F/190°C).
2. Lightly grease the grill grates and place the marinated chicken tenders directly on the heat.
3. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, flipping once, until fully cooked.

Air Fryer Method (Crispy Alternative)

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.

Once done, let the tenders rest for a couple of minutes to lock in the juices. Now, they’re ready to serve!

Serving Suggestions

Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders pair beautifully with classic Southern sides and dipping sauces.

Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Classic Southern Sides

• Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – Creamy mashed potatoes with country-style gravy make the perfect comfort-food pairing.
• Mac and Cheese – A rich and cheesy side that complements the tenders perfectly.
• Green Beans – A light and buttery veggie option for balance.
• Buttermilk Biscuits – Soft, flaky biscuits to soak up every last drop of flavor.
• Cornbread – A sweet and crumbly addition for a true Southern experience.

Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard – A perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
• BBQ Sauce – Adds a smoky, slightly sweet kick.
• Ranch Dressing – A creamy and herby classic.
• Buffalo Sauce – For those who like a little heat.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Chicken Tender Wrap – Slice the tenders and wrap them in a tortilla with lettuce, cheese, and ranch dressing.
• Chicken Tender Salad – Serve over a fresh green salad with croutons and a drizzle of honey mustard.
• Chicken and Waffles – A Southern classic—crispy waffles with syrup and these juicy tenders make a heavenly combo.

No matter how you serve them, these homemade Cracker Barrel chicken tenders will be a hit at any meal!

Tips & Tricks for the Best Chicken Tenders

To ensure your Cracker Barrel-style chicken tenders turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time, keep these expert tips in mind.

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor

• The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.
  A minimum of 1 hour is recommended, but for the best results, marinate for 4 hours or overnight.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

• If cooking on the stovetop, cook in batches if needed.
  Overcrowding lowers the temperature and prevents the chicken from getting a nice sear.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer

• To avoid dry chicken, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  Overcooking will make the tenders tough.

4. Let the Chicken Rest

• After cooking, let the chicken tenders rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
  This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

5. Adjust the Sweetness and Tanginess

• Prefer a sweeter flavor? Add an extra teaspoon of honey.
• Want more tang? Increase the lime juice by an extra tablespoon.

Conclusion

Now you can enjoy Cracker Barrel’s famous chicken tenders without ever leaving home!

This easy copycat recipe delivers the same sweet, tangy, and savory flavor with minimal ingredients and effort.

Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a gathering, or meal prep, these juicy grilled chicken tenders will quickly become a family favorite.

Serve them with your favorite sides and dipping sauces for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of pan-frying them?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the marinated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. What kind of Italian dressing should I use?

A zesty Italian dressing works best, but any store-bought or homemade Italian dressing will do.

If you prefer a lighter option, go for a low-fat version.

3. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Simply slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips before marinating.

4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to keep them juicy.

5. Can I freeze marinated chicken tenders?

Yes! Place the marinated chicken in a ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.