Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders: A Savory Delight (Updated 2025)
If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know their chicken tenders are a highlight on the menu. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these tenders have a way of making every meal feel special. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the experience, there’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Cracker Barrel chicken tenders.
Overview of Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders
Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders stand out for their quality and taste. These golden-brown tenders feature a crispy coating that complements the tender, juicy chicken inside. You’ll find them served in various ways that cater to different tastes, enhancing the overall dining experience at Cracker Barrel.
Menu Options and Nutrition Information
Below are some key menu items featuring Cracker Barrel chicken tenders, along with their prices and nutritional information:
| Menu Item | Price | Calories | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tender Basket | $10.99 | 870 | Four tenders, served with your choice of two sides and sawmill gravy. |
| Chicken Tender Plate | $12.49 | 820 | Five tenders served with your choice of side, a biscuit, and gravy. |
| Chicken Tenders & Country Ham | $13.99 | 990 | Two tenders paired with a slice of country ham and two sides. |
| Southern Fried Chicken Tenders | $10.99 | 960 | Hand-breaded and fried, accompanied by two sides and gravy. |
Each option offers a unique way to savor the delicious chicken tenders, catering to those seeking a hearty meal or something light and satisfying.
Ingredients and Preparation
Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders feature premium ingredients and meticulous preparation methods. These elements contribute to their acclaimed flavor and texture.
Quality of Ingredients
Cracker Barrel prioritizes high-quality ingredients in their chicken tenders. The chicken is sourced from trusted suppliers, ensuring freshness and taste. The breading blends seasoned flour and spices, resulting in a unique crunch. Here’s a breakdown:
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breast Fillets | Juicy, tender, and marinated |
| Seasoned Flour | Delivers crispy, flavorful coating |
| Spices | Enhances the overall taste profile |
Cooking Methods
Cracker Barrel employs careful cooking methods to achieve optimal results. Each batch of chicken is fried to a perfect golden brown, ensuring a crispy exterior and a moist interior. The frying process typically involves:
| Cooking Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Deep Frying | Cooked in hot oil for crispiness |
| Temperature Control | Maintained at optimal frying heat |
| Timing | Precise timing for juicy texture |
Menu Options
Cracker Barrel offers various chicken tender dishes, each with distinct preparation and flavors. Below are popular options, along with their prices and nutritional information.
| Menu Item | Price ($) | Calories | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tender Basket | 10.99 | 770 | Four chicken tenders with choice of two sides. |
| Chicken Tender Plate | 11.79 | 680 | Four tenders served with bread and a side. |
| Southern Fried Chicken Tenders | 12.49 | 820 | Crispy tenders with a Southern twist, served with sides. |
These ingredients and preparation methods set Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders apart, enhancing their appeal on the menu.
Taste and Flavor Profile
Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders deliver a delightful combination of crispiness and rich flavor. Their carefully crafted taste profile shines through their use of quality ingredients and expert preparation.
Texture and Crunch
Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders feature a perfectly crispy exterior that provides a satisfying crunch with each bite. The breading is light yet sturdy, allowing the juicy chicken inside to remain moist and flavorful. You experience a delightful contrast between the crunchy coating and the tender meat, enhancing the overall eating experience.
| Menu Item | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tender Basket | $11.99 | 840 |
| Chicken Tender Plate | $10.99 | 850 |
| Southern Fried Chicken Tenders | $10.49 | 880 |
Seasoning and Sauces
Seasoning plays a crucial role in elevating the taste of Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders. A unique blend of spices in the breading complements both the chicken’s natural flavor and the sides that often accompany the dish. Additionally, various dipping sauces enhance the experience, allowing you to select flavors that suit your palate, such as honey mustard, ranch, and BBQ sauce.
| Sauce Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Honey Mustard | Sweet and tangy, perfect for a mild dip. |
| Ranch | Creamy and herb-flavored, a classic choice. |
| BBQ Sauce | Smoky and sweet, ideal for bold flavor lovers. |
Portion Size and Value
Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders offer generous portions and great value for your dining experience. You’ll find multiple options to satisfy different appetites and preferences.
Pricing Comparison
Cracker Barrel features a variety of chicken tender menu items, each with distinct pricing, calorie counts, and descriptions. Here’s a helpful table for reference:
| Menu Item | Price | Calories | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tender Basket | $11.99 | 960 | A basket of hand-breaded chicken tenders served with your choice of two sides and dipping sauce. |
| Chicken Tender Plate | $13.29 | 840 | Includes four chicken tenders with two sides and a biscuit or cornbread. |
| Southern Fried Chicken Tenders | $12.49 | 1050 | Crispy fried tenders served with two sides, your choice of dipping sauce, and a biscuit or cornbread. |
| Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Tenders | $10.99 | 670 | Hand-breaded chicken tenders, available with two sides and dipping sauce. |
Serving Sizes
Serving sizes at Cracker Barrel cater to both small and hungry appetites. The chicken tender options allow you to select the right amount based on your hunger level.
- Basket: Typically includes three chicken tenders, perfect for a lighter meal or appetizer.
- Plate: Offers up to four chicken tenders, ideal for a satisfying meal with additional sides.
- Family Style: Larger orders are available for sharing, which may include six or more tenders, suitable for groups.
The combination of serving sizes and fair pricing enhances overall value, allowing you to enjoy these crispy chicken delights without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customer reviews highlight a mix of experiences regarding Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders, underscoring both satisfaction and areas that might benefit from improvement.
Positive Experiences
Customers frequently praise the chicken tenders for their crispy coating and juicy interior. Many comment on the generous portion sizes, noting value for the price. The tenders’ rich flavor combined with various dipping sauces adds to the enjoyment. Here’s a table of popular menu options featuring chicken tenders:
| Menu Item | Price ($) | Calories | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tender Basket | 10.99 | 980 | Crispy chicken tenders served with fries and dipping sauce. |
| Chicken Tender Plate | 11.99 | 730 | Three tenders with two sides and buttermilk biscuits. |
| Southern Fried Chicken Tenders | 12.49 | 890 | Hand-breaded tenders, crispy on the outside and tender inside. |
| Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Tenders | 11.49 | 670 | Hand-breaded chicken served with a choice of two sides. |
Areas for Improvement
Some customers express concerns regarding the consistency of the cooking process. A few reviews mention occasional overcooked tenders resulting in dryness. Others suggest enhancing the seasoning for a bolder flavor. Here’s a summary of suggested improvements:
| Suggested Improvement | Details |
|---|---|
| Consistency in Cooking | Ensuring uniform cooking times for tender juiciness. |
| Enhanced Seasoning | Adding more spices or flavors to the breading. |
Feedback reflects a balance of love and constructive criticism for Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders, echoing a commitment to quality and customer preferences.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders offer a delightful blend of flavor and texture that can elevate any meal. With their crispy coating and juicy interior you’re sure to find satisfaction in every bite. The variety of menu options and generous portions cater to different tastes and appetites making it a great choice for any occasion.
Whether you prefer the classic Chicken Tender Basket or want to explore other dishes featuring these tenders you’re bound to enjoy a comforting and satisfying dining experience. The attention to quality ingredients and cooking methods ensures that each serving delivers on taste and value. So next time you’re craving something delicious give Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders a try and savor the comfort they bring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders special?
Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders are known for their crispy exterior and juicy interior. The unique blend of spices in the seasoned flour enhances the natural flavor of the chicken, making them both comforting and special for diners.
What menu options feature chicken tenders?
Cracker Barrel offers several chicken tender options, including the Chicken Tender Basket, Chicken Tender Plate, and Southern Fried Chicken Tenders. Each item showcases the tenders in different serving sizes and styles, catering to various tastes and appetites.
How are Cracker Barrel chicken tenders prepared?
The chicken tenders are made using high-quality chicken sourced from trusted suppliers. They are breaded with a seasoned flour and spice blend, then deep-fried at optimal temperatures to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness.
What are the prices of chicken tender dishes at Cracker Barrel?
Prices for the chicken tender dishes vary, but common options include the Chicken Tender Basket and Chicken Tender Plate, usually ranging from approximately $10 to $15. Customers can enjoy generous portions for a good value.
Are there any dipping sauces available for the chicken tenders?
Yes, Cracker Barrel offers a variety of dipping sauces for their chicken tenders, including honey mustard, ranch, and BBQ sauce. This allows diners to customize their meal and enhance the flavor of the tenders.
What do customer reviews say about Cracker Barrel’s chicken tenders?
Customer reviews highlight the crispy coating and juicy interior of the chicken tenders, along with generous portion sizes. However, some feedback points out occasional inconsistencies in cooking and suggests bolder seasoning for enhanced flavor.
What nutritional information is available for the chicken tenders?
Nutritional information, such as calorie counts, varies by menu item. For instance, the Chicken Tender Basket generally contains around 900 calories, but specifics can be provided upon request at the restaurant.