Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Recipe – Whisk Guide
When planning a meal around Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken, think about sides that enhance the dish without overshadowing it. Moreover, good sides bring a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Here are a few suggestions to consider:
A simple salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the grilled chicken.
Soft, buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic provide a comforting, creamy complement that’ll satisfy any starch-loving palate.
Sweet and savory cornbread adds a delightful crunch and partners well with the smoky flavors in the chicken.
Summer is a lovely time for grilling, and one dish that shines during grilling season is Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken. Imagine juicy pieces of chicken, flavored to perfection, served right off the grill.
As someone who appreciates a hearty, home-cooked meal, I’ve found this chicken dish to be a crowd-pleaser at barbecues and family gatherings. It’s simple yet flavorful, and it does not take hours to prepare.
On top of that, it’s so versatile, you can change sides and sauces to keep each meal fresh and exciting.
What is Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken?
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken is a delectable dish that encapsulates comfort food at its finest. Steeped in a delightful marinade made of Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice, this chicken is grilled to achieve a wonderful smoky flavor while retaining its juiciness.
Traditionally served with Southern-style sides, it’s no wonder this dish has captured the hearts of many.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
There are several reasons this recipe should be on your grilling list:
1. Flavor Punch – The combination of Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice creates a savory-sweet marinade that infuses the chicken with a rich taste.
2. Quick Preparation – With just a handful of ingredients and minimal steps, this dish is perfect for busy weekdays or spontaneous weekend gatherings.
3. Versatility – You can swap in various sides or even sauces to change the flavor profile and keep things interesting.
4. Healthful Option – This grilled chicken provides lean protein, making it a heart-healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To whip up your own Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup Italian dressing (I recommend a brand like Olive Garden for its flavor)
- 2 tablespoons honey (for that sweet touch)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (bottle or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (adds richness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for depth)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for freshness)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make This Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken?
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken tenderloins in a large mixing bowl. Pour the Italian dressing over the chicken. Add the honey, lime juice, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, consider letting it marinate for a few hours.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using charcoal, let the coals turn to ash, ensuring an even heat. For gas grills, allow it to heat up for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Once the grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill grates. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken remains juicy and cooked through.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Then, serve alongside your favorite sides!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some quick tips to elevate your grilling game:
- Uniform Chicken Pieces – Use pieces of similar size for even cooking. Tenderloins work great, but chicken breasts can also be used.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade – Even a brief marinating time can significantly improve flavor. Longer is often better!
- Keep the Grill Lid Closed – This helps retain heat and cook the chicken evenly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – This ensures your chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
- Experiment with Ingredients – Feel free to add different spices or herbs to the marinade. The possibilities are endless!
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Leftovers from Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken can be stored easily. Allow the chicken to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to seal it well to prevent freezer burn.
What Sides Would Complement Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken?
Complementing sides can elevate your meal. Here are some favorites:
1. Southern Style Green Beans – Tender green beans cooked with a bit of bacon and spices offer a savory side that balances the sweetness of the chicken.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the grilled chicken, providing a refreshing texture.
3. Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans matches perfectly with grilled chicken, creating a comforting, hearty experience.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Sometimes, we can’t find certain ingredients, but don’t worry! Here are some substitutes that work well:
1. Chicken Tenderloins – If these aren’t available, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, adjusting cooking time as necessary.
2. Italian Dressing – A homemade mix of olive oil, vinegar, Italian herbs, and spices can work wonders in its place.
3. Honey – Maple syrup or agave nectar can substitute honey quite nicely, adding a similar sweetness.
4. Lime Juice – If you don’t have lime, lemon juice provides a tangy kick that will still enhance flavor.
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the chicken tenderloins in a large mixing bowl. Pour the Italian dressing over the chicken. Add the honey, lime juice, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, consider letting it marinate for a few hours.
- While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using charcoal, let the coals turn to ash, ensuring an even heat. For gas grills, allow it to heat up for about 10 minutes.
- Once the grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill grates. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken remains juicy and cooked through.
- After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Then, serve alongside your favorite sides!
Nutrition
Notes
- Uniform Chicken Pieces – Use pieces of similar size for even cooking. Tenderloins work great, but chicken breasts can also be used.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade – Even a brief marinating time can significantly improve flavor. Longer is often better!
- Keep the Grill Lid Closed – This helps retain heat and cook the chicken evenly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – This ensures your chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
- Experiment with Ingredients – Feel free to add different spices or herbs to the marinade. The possibilities are endless!
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken is an incredible dish that brings joy to the table. The combination of flavors creates an unforgettable meal. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers plenty of opportunities to customize.
This dish holds its own at family gatherings or casual summer barbecues. No matter how you serve it, you can trust that it’s going to be a hit. So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this delightful recipe all season long!
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