Homemade Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken – Simple & Delicious!

Cracker Barrel’s Homestyle Chicken is a beloved classic that brings the comforting taste of Southern cooking right to your plate.

This dish features juicy, tender chicken coated in a perfectly seasoned, golden-brown crust that’s both crispy and flavorful.

Served with homestyle sides like mashed potatoes and biscuits, it’s the ultimate comfort meal.

If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel and wished you could recreate their famous homestyle chicken at home, you’re in luck!

This recipe captures the essence of the original, from the buttermilk marinade to the crispy, double-dredged coating.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or craving a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you make the perfect Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken.

What Makes Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken Special?

Cracker Barrel’s Homestyle Chicken isn’t just any fried chicken—it’s a Southern masterpiece.

Unlike traditional fried chicken, which is often made with bone-in pieces, this version uses boneless chicken breasts, making it easier to eat while still delivering that rich, crispy texture.

1. Buttermilk Marinade for Extra Tenderness

The key to Cracker Barrel’s signature flavor is marinating the chicken in buttermilk.

This process not only infuses the meat with a tangy, rich taste but also ensures that every bite is incredibly juicy and tender.

The buttermilk helps break down the proteins in the chicken, making it softer and more flavorful.

2. Perfectly Seasoned Crispy Coating

The golden, crunchy crust is what sets this chicken apart.

It’s achieved through a double-dredging process, where the chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture, dipped back into buttermilk, and then coated again.

This extra layer creates a crispy, craggy texture that locks in moisture and delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite.

3. Pan-Fried to Golden Perfection

Unlike deep-fried chicken, which can sometimes be too greasy, this homestyle version is pan-fried in a shallow layer of hot oil.

This method ensures even cooking, a perfectly crisp crust, and a rich, buttery flavor that complements the seasoned coating.

4. A True Comfort Food Experience

One of the reasons this dish is so popular is its nostalgic, homemade taste.

It brings back memories of Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and warm, comforting meals made with love.

Served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, country gravy, or buttermilk biscuits, it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel at home with every bite.

Now that you know what makes this dish so special, let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to recreate it in your own kitchen! 🍗✨

Ingredients for Homemade Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken

To recreate the crispy, golden perfection of Cracker Barrel’s Homestyle Chicken, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients.

Each one plays a key role in achieving the tender, juicy inside and crunchy, flavorful coating.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Breading:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for color and mild smokiness)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder (for extra crispiness)

For Frying:

• 1 ½ cups vegetable oil (or peanut oil for added flavor)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breasts slightly to ensure even thickness.

This helps them cook evenly and prevents dryness.

Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk

Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl or ziplock bag and pour in the buttermilk.

Let the chicken soak for at least 1 hour, but for best results, refrigerate and marinate overnight.

The buttermilk not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the coating stick better.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Mixture

In a large shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and baking powder.

This seasoned mix is what gives the chicken its signature crispy texture.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken for Maximum Crunch

• Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off.
• Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing it in to ensure full coverage.
• Dip it back into the buttermilk, then coat it in the flour mixture again for a double-dredged effect. This creates the thick, craggy crust that makes every bite irresistibly crunchy.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

• Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C)).
• If desired, add a small amount of butter to the oil for extra flavor as the chicken fries.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack. Let it rest for a few minutes to keep the coating crisp and allow excess oil to drain.

Now that your crispy, golden Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken is ready, it’s time to serve it up with your favorite Southern sides! 🍗🔥

Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken

Want to make your homemade Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken taste just like the real deal—or even better? Follow these expert tips to get the perfect crispy, juicy fried chicken every time.

1. Don’t Skip the Buttermilk Marinade

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight for the best results) ensures that the meat stays juicy and tender.

The acidity in buttermilk breaks down the proteins, making the chicken more flavorful and moist.

2. Use a Double-Dredging Technique

For that signature crunchy coating, dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour twice.

The first coat helps the buttermilk stick, while the second coat creates a thick, crispy crust.

3. Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature

If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks.

If it’s too cold, the breading will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Maintain the temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even frying.

4. Use a Wire Rack for Draining

Instead of placing the fried chicken directly on paper towels, use a wire rack over a baking sheet.

This prevents steam from making the crust soggy, keeping the chicken crispy.

5. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

Allowing the fried chicken to rest for about 5 minutes helps the juices redistribute inside, making every bite moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect Sides for Cracker Barrel Homestyle Chicken

No Cracker Barrel meal is complete without classic Southern sides!

Here are some perfect pairings to turn your homemade chicken into a restaurant-style feast.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Country Gravy

Rich and buttery mashed potatoes with a generous drizzle of country-style white gravy complement the crispy chicken perfectly.

2. Buttery Biscuits or Cornbread

Fluffy buttermilk biscuits or sweet cornbread add a comforting touch to the meal. Serve them with honey butter for an extra indulgent treat.

3. Southern Green Beans

Slow-cooked green beans with a touch of bacon and onions bring a fresh, savory contrast to the crispy chicken.

4. Classic Coleslaw

A cool, crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing balances out the richness of the fried chicken.

5. Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent, mac and cheese is a must-have comfort side for any Southern meal.

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel’s Homestyle Chicken is a true Southern classic, known for its crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy inside.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can now enjoy the same delicious flavors right at home.

From the buttermilk marinade to the perfect pan-fried crunch, every bite is packed with homestyle goodness.

Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, flaky biscuits, or a side of mac and cheese for a meal that feels just like a comforting visit to Cracker Barrel.

Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or a special gathering, this homestyle chicken is sure to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake this chicken instead of frying?

Yes! While frying gives it that signature crispy texture, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before baking to help it crisp up.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate for at least 1 hour.

If possible, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator for maximum juiciness.

3. What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil work best because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

5. Why is my breading falling off?

If your breading isn’t sticking, make sure to:

• Pat the chicken dry before dipping it into the buttermilk.
• Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken.
• Let the breaded chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.