Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken*! It’s one of those meals that’s not only bursting with flavor but also a breeze to whip up on a busy weeknight. I remember the first time I tried it—I was at Cracker Barrel, savoring every bite and thinking, “I need this at home!” So, I set out to recreate that cozy, home-cooked taste, and I think I nailed it! Trust me, the juicy, seasoned grilled chicken paired with a savory broth is just heavenly. Plus, it’s gluten-free and healthy, so I can enjoy it guilt-free! You’re going to love how quick it is to make, and it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
These ingredients come together perfectly to create that mouthwatering flavor reminiscent of Cracker Barrel! Make sure to grab fresh chicken for the juiciest bite, and don’t skimp on the seasoning—it’s where the magic happens! You can easily adjust the spices to match your taste, but trust me, this combo is a winner every time!
How to Prepare Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Okay, first things first, you need to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial because it helps lock in those delicious juices and gives you those perfect grill marks that make the chicken look as good as it tastes! I always let my grill heat up for at least 10-15 minutes before I start cooking. If you’re not sure, just hold your hand above the grill—if you can only keep it there for a couple of seconds, you’re good to go! It should be hot and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture
Now, let’s whip up that flavor-packed seasoning mixture! In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. I like to use a whisk to mix it all together until it’s smooth and well combined. You want that oil to hug all the spices so they can really infuse into the chicken. Trust me, this simple blend is what takes your chicken from ordinary to extraordinary!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Time to coat those chicken breasts! Grab each chicken breast and generously coat it with the seasoning mixture. I like to use my hands for this part (just be sure to wash them afterward!). Make sure each piece is evenly covered—this is where the flavor really comes to life. Don’t be shy; you want that seasoning to stick! Once they’re all coated, let them sit for a few minutes to soak in those yummy flavors.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Now it’s grilling time! Place the seasoned chicken on the preheated grill and let it cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The key here is to resist the urge to flip them too soon; let them get those gorgeous grill marks! To check for doneness, you can use a meat thermometer—when it hits 165°F (75°C), you know it’s ready! If you don’t have a thermometer, just cut into the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear.
Step 5: Prepare the Broth
While the chicken is grilling, let’s get the broth ready! In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth and dried thyme. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat and let it bubble away for about 5-7 minutes. This will allow the thyme to infuse its flavor into the broth, creating a lovely sauce to drizzle over your chicken. You want it to be warm and fragrant—so mouthwatering!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, it’s time to plate up! Once your chicken is grilled to perfection, place each piece on a plate and drizzle that delicious broth over the top. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley if you have it on hand. Serve it with your favorite sides, like roasted veggies or a fresh salad. Trust me, everyone will be raving about how good your *Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken* is!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and the savory chicken broth create a mouthwatering flavor that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
- Healthy Option: With lean chicken breasts and gluten-free ingredients, you can enjoy this dish guilt-free while still satisfying your taste buds.
- Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides, whether that’s a crisp salad, roasted potatoes, or steamed veggies—the options are endless!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The leftovers are just as tasty, making this a great option for lunches throughout the week.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, so it’s a win-win for family dinners!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken* turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to keep in mind:
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your taste! If you love a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite super juicy and tender.
- Check Your Grill Temperature: If your grill runs hot, be mindful of the cooking time. Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from drying out. It’s better to check a bit early than to overcook!
- Use a Meat Thermometer: I can’t stress enough how helpful a meat thermometer can be! It’s the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
- Try Different Broths: While chicken broth is classic, experimenting with vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine can add a new layer of flavor to your dish.
- Don’t Rush the Grill Marks: Resist the temptation to flip the chicken too soon—let it sear for that beautiful golden color! This adds both flavor and that impressive grill mark aesthetic.
With these tips, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time! Enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite of your homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this *Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken* and now you have some leftovers—lucky you! Storing your chicken properly will keep it fresh and tasty for days. First, let the chicken cool down to room temperature before packing it up. I like to place it in an airtight container; this helps lock in moisture and flavor. You can store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using either the oven or the stovetop to keep the chicken juicy. If you’re using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in a baking dish, and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. On the stovetop, just add a splash of chicken broth to a skillet over medium heat and warm the chicken gently, turning occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. This method keeps it tender and delicious!
And there you have it—easy storage and reheating tips to enjoy your *Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken* all over again. Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one serving of *Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken*. Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea of what you’re working with:
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
This chicken dish is not only delicious but also a healthy choice that fits into various diets. With plenty of protein and low carbs, it’s perfect for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy every bite knowing you’re treating your body right!
FAQ Section
Can I bake Cracker Barrel Chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer baking, you can place the seasoned chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Just make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent drying out!
What sides go well with this dish?
Oh, so many delicious options! I love serving *Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken* with roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. You could even whip up some cornbread for that classic Southern feel. Honestly, it pairs beautifully with anything you enjoy!
Can I use different herbs for the broth?
Definitely! While thyme is my go-to, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or even basil. Just keep in mind that different herbs bring unique flavors, so feel free to get creative!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mixture! You can also serve the chicken with a spicy dipping sauce or drizzle some hot sauce on top just before serving. Spice it up to your liking!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture a few hours ahead of time or even overnight to really enhance the flavor. Just be sure to grill it fresh right before serving for the best taste and texture!
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Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken: 5 Steps to Flavor Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring seasoned grilled chicken served with sides.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the seasoning mixture.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, combine chicken broth and thyme, and bring to a simmer.
- Serve the grilled chicken with the broth poured over it.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Pair with your favorite sides.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Cracker Barrel Chicken, Grilled Chicken, Chicken Recipe
