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–+ servings
Cracker barrel chicken tenders copycat recipe
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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.

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