What To Know
- The lactic acid in buttermilk breaks down the proteins in the chicken, making it more succulent and allowing the spices and seasonings to penetrate deeply.
- If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little practice, you can recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Fried Chicken in your own kitchen.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, renowned for its home-style cooking, has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts with its signature dish, the Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Fried Chicken. This delectable dish tantalizes taste buds with its crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy interior. If you’re craving this Southern classic, look no further! This blog post unveils the secrets behind the Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe, allowing you to recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
The Magic of Buttermilk:
The key to achieving the perfect buttermilk fried chicken lies in the buttermilk marinade. Buttermilk, a fermented dairy product, tenderizes the chicken, resulting in a moist and flavorful result. The lactic acid in buttermilk breaks down the proteins in the chicken, making it more succulent and allowing the spices and seasonings to penetrate deeply.
Selecting the Right Chicken:
Choosing the right chicken is crucial for a successful fried chicken experience. Opt for fresh, free-range, or organic chicken for the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen chicken, as it tends to be drier and less flavorful. Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are ideal, as the bones help retain moisture and the skin crisps up beautifully during frying.
The Secret Spice Blend:
The distinctive flavor of Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Fried Chicken comes from a carefully crafted blend of spices and seasonings. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, but you can approximate it with a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Experiment with different ratios to find the perfect balance of flavors that suits your palate.
The Perfect Buttermilk Marinade:
Combine the buttermilk, spices, and seasonings in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Submerge the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
The Art of Frying:
Heat a large pot or deep fryer filled with oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Achieving the Perfect Crunch:
For an extra crispy coating, double-coat the chicken. After the initial frying, remove the chicken pieces from the oil and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, return them to the hot oil and fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are incredibly crispy.
Serving Suggestions:
Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Fried Chicken is best served hot and crispy, accompanied by classic Southern sides such as mashed potatoes, gravy, coleslaw, and cornbread. You can also enjoy it with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or hot sauce.
Enjoying Leftovers:
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
The Art of Buttermilk Fried Chicken: A Culinary Journey:
Buttermilk fried chicken is a culinary art form that requires patience, precision, and a love for Southern comfort food. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little practice, you can recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Fried Chicken in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a delicious journey into the world of crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While regular milk can be used, it won’t provide the same level of tenderness and flavor as buttermilk. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
2. How can I make sure the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing it from the oil. This will ensure that the chicken is safe to consume and cooked thoroughly.
3. What are some tips for achieving a crispy coating?
To achieve a crispy coating, double-coat the chicken. After the initial frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before returning it to the hot oil for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s incredibly crispy.
