Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe

Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe is a crispy, wholesome alternative to the restaurant’s famous fried chicken that uses a seasoned flour coating to achieve a satisfying crunch. Ideally the chicken should be dipped in a buttermilk and egg mixture before breading to ensure the flour adheres properly and creates a thick, flavorful crust.

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Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
• Olive oil spray or non-stick cooking spray

How To Make Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe

1. Preheat and Setup: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire cooling rack on top of a large rimmed baking sheet; this allows air to circulate for maximum crispiness.
2. Prepare the Coating Stations: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. In a second shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and buttermilk together until smooth.
3. Breading Process: Take a chicken tenderloin and dredge it in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the buttermilk mixture, then coat it once more in the flour mixture (or panko if using), pressing firmly so the breading sticks.
4. Arrange on Tray: Place the breaded chicken onto the wire rack. Repeat with the remaining tenderloins, ensuring they are spaced apart and not touching.
5. Oil Spray: Generously spray the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil spray. This is the secret to getting a golden-brown, “fried” look and texture in the oven.
6. Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. You do not need to flip them if using a wire rack, but if baking directly on a sheet, flip them halfway through the cooking time.
7. Finish: The chicken is done when the coating is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Recipe Tips

• Double Dredging: For a thicker, restaurant-style crust, always go from flour to liquid and back to flour. This “double-dip” creates the nooks and crannies that hold onto sauces better.
• The High Heat Factor: Baking at 425°F is higher than standard baking temperatures, but it is necessary to crisp the flour coating quickly before the chicken dries out.
• Room Temperature Chicken: Take the chicken out of the fridge 15 minutes before cooking. This helps the chicken cook more evenly so the outside doesn’t overcook while waiting for the center to finish.
• Spray is Essential: If you forget to spray the tenders with oil, the flour will remain white and powdery rather than turning golden and crisp.

What To Serve With Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

Baked chicken tender accompaniments are classic Southern comforts that provide a hearty and balanced meal for the whole family. Ideally the macaroni and cheese should be made with a blend of sharp cheddar and colby jack to provide a creamy, rich contrast to the crispy breaded chicken.

• Creamy Southern-style macaroni and cheese
• Mashed potatoes with white gravy
• Steamed broccoli or glazed carrots
• Honey mustard or buttermilk ranch for dipping

How To Store Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders

• Refrigerate: Store leftover breaded tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: To keep them crispy, reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 3 to 4 minutes or in the oven at 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the breading soggy.
• Freeze: You can freeze the baked tenders for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes.

Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 345 kcal (per serving)
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Nutrition information is estimated per serving based on 4 servings.

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