When I first discovered the joy of Cracker Barrel chicken tenders, I found myself in a culinary embrace. The vision of crispy, golden tenders accompanied by a splash of zesty ranch dressing instantly became a highlight of my dining adventures. 

So, what do you pair these juicy bites with? Think creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn, or a side of their famous biscuits. Let the journey begin!

Ever walked into a place and felt an instant wave of nostalgia? Maybe it’s the warm greeting from the staff or the smell of home-cooked meals wafting through the air. That’s what Cracker Barrel does. They capture the essence of comfort in every bite. Their chicken tenders stand out, and I’m here to share why.

Cracker Barrel chicken tenders are more than a dish; they’re a community staple that brings people together. If you ever find yourself craving a meal that feels like a warm hug, dive into the indulging world of these tender morsels. Together, we’ll explore the history behind them, how to make them at home, and even offer some creative suggestions to elevate your meal!

What Are Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders?

These aren’t just your average chicken tenders. Cracker Barrel chicken tenders are marinated, well-seasoned, and fried to perfection. The outside is crisp, while the inside is juicy and flavorful. 

It’s the perfect comfort food that can easily feed a crowd or satisfy a solo craving. These tenders capture the essence of Southern cooking, providing a taste that’s both familiar and delectable.

Why You’ll Love Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

Let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes these tenders so special. First, their texture is unbeatable. Each piece of chicken is packed with flavor, thanks to the marinating process. This step allows the seasonings to seep deep into the meat.

A blend of Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice adds a unique twist. The honey enhances the dish’s sweetness which perfectly counterbalances the savory notes. When you take your first bite, the crunch and the tenderness will transport you straight to the dining area of your favorite Cracker Barrel location.

Additionally, they are versatile! You can enjoy these tenders on their own, toss them into a salad, or pair them with various dipping sauces. The possibilities are endless. It’s comfort food that fits any meal, be it lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

Before we get cooking, let’s outline the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious serving of Cracker Barrel chicken tenders:

• 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup Italian-style dressing, such as the Olive Garden brand
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh or bottled lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Optional Additions

You can add dimension to your tenders with these ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard ( for a tangy depth)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder ( for added savoriness)

Directions to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

Let’s turn our kitchen into a haven of flavor. Follow these steps for the ultimate experience.

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken tenderloins. If they are not already trimmed, make sure to remove any excess fat or gristle. I usually rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures they are clean and ready for marinating.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine the Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice. Whisk these ingredients together to blend the flavors. Place the chicken tenderloins in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken.

Seal the bag or cover the dish, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for a couple of hours or overnight if possible.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to fry but not smoking. A good rule of thumb is to test a drop of the marinade in the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to go!

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the bag or dish, letting excess marinade drip off before placing it in the hot oil. Arrange the pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. You may need to cook in batches.

Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Ensuring each side is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F is essential for safety.

Step 5: Drain and Garnish

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. If you wish, sprinkle with fresh parsley for that pop of color.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate up your delicious chicken tenders alongside your choice of dipping sauces and sides. Dig in and relish the joy of homemade comfort food!

Notes: Tips for Perfect Tenders

• Quality Oil Matters: Use a good frying oil like vegetable or canola for a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
• Marinating Time: Don’t rush the marinade. The longer, the better, but even 30 minutes adds flavor.
• Test for Doneness: Don’t skip testing the chicken’s internal temperature. This ensures safety and the perfect texture.
• Batch Cook if Needed: If you’ve got a lot of chicken, fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to soggy tenders.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to throw in other spices or herbs to the marinade for a personal touch. Paprika or cumin can add a lovely twist.

Storage Tips

Storing your chicken tenders properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Here’s what I recommend:

• In the Refrigerator: Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll last about 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked tenders. Place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

The beauty of chicken tenders lies in their versatility. Here are five serving ideas to elevate your meal:

• Served with Crispy Fries: Pair your tenders with a side of crispy fries for a classic combo. The crunch is a perfect match for the tender chicken.
• Over a Fresh Salad: Slice the tenders and toss them over a bed of mixed greens with vegetables. Drizzle with your favorite dressing for a refreshing meal.
• In a Wrap: Wrap them in a tortilla with fresh veggies and sauce for a tasty handheld option. Easy to take on the go and just plain delicious.
• Alongside Mashed Potatoes: Serve them next to buttery mashed potatoes. That creamy texture complements the crispy chicken splendidly.
• With a Side of Biscuits: Nothing says comfort like tender chicken with southern-style biscuits. Dip them in gravy for extra indulgence.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders?

Sometimes you may want to mix things up. Here are five substitutes to consider:

• Chicken Breasts: Use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins for a leaner option. Just slice them into strips for uniformity.
• Turkey Tenderloins: If chicken isn’t your thing, try turkey tenderloins. They’ll give you a new flavor while still being healthy.
• Aquafaba: For a plant-based option, use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) in place of the chicken. Coat in breadcrumbs and fry for a vegan alternative.
• Cauliflower Bites: For a vegetarian meal, coat cauliflower florets in the marinade and fry them until crispy. A great alternative for veggie lovers.
• Tofu Strips: Use firm tofu cut into strips. Marinate and fry them for a protein-rich, meat-free option. Perfect for those craving Asian flavors.

Pamela Dunlap

Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Recipe

When I first discovered the joy of Cracker Barrel chicken tenders, I found myself in a culinary embrace.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup Italian-style dressing such as Olive Garden brand
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh or bottled lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a tangy depth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder for added savoriness

Equipment

• Large skillet

Method

 

1. Start by preparing your chicken tenderloins. If they are not already trimmed, make sure to remove any excess fat or gristle. I usually rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures they are clean and ready for marinating.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the Italian dressing, honey, and lime juice. Whisk these ingredients together to blend the flavors. Place the chicken tenderloins in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for a couple of hours or overnight if possible.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to fry but not smoking. A good rule of thumb is to test a drop of the marinade in the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to go!
5. Remove the marinated chicken from the bag or dish, letting excess marinade drip off before placing it in the hot oil. Arrange the pieces in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. You may need to cook in batches.
6. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Ensuring each side is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F is essential for safety.
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. If you wish, sprinkle with fresh parsley for that pop of color.
8. Plate up your delicious chicken tenders alongside your choice of dipping sauces and sides. Dig in and relish the joy of homemade comfort food!

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 15g

Notes

• Quality Oil Matters: Use a good frying oil like vegetable or canola for a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
• Marinating Time: Don’t rush the marinade. The longer, the better, but even 30 minutes adds flavor.
• Test for Doneness: Don’t skip testing the chicken’s internal temperature. This ensures safety and the perfect texture.
• Batch Cook if Needed: If you’ve got a lot of chicken, fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to soggy tenders.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to throw in other spices or herbs to the marinade for a personal touch. Paprika or cumin can add a lovely twist.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

Crafting Cracker Barrel chicken tenders in your kitchen is more than just a cooking task; it’s an experience filled with flavor and joy. From the marinating time to the first crisp bite, you’ll appreciate the comfort that this dish brings.

Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these chicken tenders will surely impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s sure to brighten your day. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade comfort food that rivals what you’d find in a Cracker Barrel restaurant. Happy cooking!

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