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Crispy Cracker Barrel Loaded Fried Chicken Recipe Easy Homemade Delight

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A crispy, cheesy, and savory fried chicken recipe inspired by Cracker Barrel, loaded with sharp cheddar, bacon, and green onions. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (240 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (180 g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 110 g)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup sour cream (120 ml)
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil (about 4 cups / 950 ml) for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours.
  2. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pour oil into a deep frying pan or cast iron skillet to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
  4. Remove chicken breasts from marinade one at a time, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Shake off excess flour.
  5. Carefully place chicken breasts in hot oil. Fry in batches if needed, cooking 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Adjust heat to maintain oil temperature.
  6. Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil and keep crust crisp.
  7. While chicken is still warm, spread a thin layer of sour cream on each piece, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.
  8. Let the loaded chicken rest for a minute to meld flavors, then serve immediately.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to ensure crispy chicken. Do not overcrowd the pan. Rest chicken on wire rack to keep crust crisp. For gluten-free, substitute flour with almond or gluten-free flour. For dairy-free, use coconut yogurt and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Reheat leftovers in oven at 375°F (190°C) to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried chicken, loaded fried chicken, Cracker Barrel style, crispy chicken, comfort food, cheesy chicken, bacon topping

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/crispy-cracker-barrel-loaded-fried-chicken-recipe-easy-homemade-delight/