Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than with some delicious grilled chicken recipes? Cracker Barrel’s signature grilled chicken is a staple on their menu, but now you can bring that same flavor and excitement to your own backyard BBQs. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering Cracker Barrel-inspired grilled chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic herb butter to sweet and tangy glazes, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and twists on traditional grilled chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next outdoor gathering, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to taste the sunshine with these 20 delicious Cracker Barrel grilled chicken recipes.
Classic Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken with Herb Butter
A deliciously simple recipe that combines juicy grilled chicken with a rich and flavorful herb butter, reminiscent of the classic flavors found at Cracker Barrel. This mouthwatering dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, chives, and garlic until well combined.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread herb butter evenly over each breast.
6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Southern-Style Grilled Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze
A classic Southern twist on traditional grilled chicken, this recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard for a mouthwatering glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Cracker Barrel Copycat
Savor the flavors of this mouthwatering grilled chicken dish, reminiscent of Cracker Barrel’s signature recipe. With a hint of lemon and pepper, this copycat version is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of chicken breasts with olive oil. Sprinkle the lemon pepper mixture evenly over each breast.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, place a slice of lemon on top of each breast.
6. Remove from grill and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Smoky Grilled Chicken with Cracker Barrel BBQ Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of the South with this smoky grilled chicken recipe, perfectly paired with a tangy and sweet Cracker Barrel BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Cracker Barrel BBQ Sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While chicken is grilling, heat Cracker Barrel BBQ Sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
6. Once chicken is done, brush with heated BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Tenders with Buttermilk Marinade
Grilled Chicken Tenders with Buttermilk Marinade: A Delicious Twist on Classic Chicken Tenders!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Brush the grilling surface with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the chicken tenders for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Cracker Barrel Style
Savor the flavors of a classic Southern-inspired dish with this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken recipe, reminiscent of Cracker Barrel’s signature style. Tender chicken breasts are infused with the warmth of garlic and the richness of parmesan cheese, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Breast with Applewood Smoked Seasoning
Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of this grilled chicken breast recipe, perfectly seasoned with applewood smoked flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp applewood smoked seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together applewood smoked seasoning and salt.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the applewood seasoned mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes total
Spicy Grilled Chicken with Cracker Barrel Hot Sauce
Elevate your grilled chicken game with a kick of heat from Cracker Barrel Hot Sauce! This recipe is perfect for those who like a little spice.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Cracker Barrel Hot Sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together hot sauce, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Grilled Chicken Thighs with Brown Sugar Glaze
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of brown sugar glaze with the smokiness of grilled chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create the glaze.
3. Brush both sides of chicken thighs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the brown sugar glaze all over the chicken thighs.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total.
Maple-Glazed Grilled Chicken Cracker Barrel Inspired
Maple-Glazed Grilled Chicken, inspired by Cracker Barrel’s classic dish! This sweet and savory recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the glaze, turning to coat evenly.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Wings with Homemade Dry Rub
Elevate your chicken wings game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the perfect blend of spices and herbs. This homemade dry rub is a game-changer for any grilled chicken enthusiast!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Pat dry the chicken wings with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides evenly with the homemade dry rub.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken wings with olive oil.
5. Grill the chicken wings for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Marinated Grilled Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the richness of herb-marinated chicken with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Cracker Barrel Slaw
A classic sandwich gets a flavorful boost from our tangy slaw recipe, featuring crunchy croutons and a hint of spices. Elevate your lunch game with this easy-to-make treat!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Cracker Barrel Slaw (see below for recipe)
– 4 hamburger buns
– 4 slices American cheese (optional)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Cracker Barrel Slaw:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on toasted buns, followed by a dollop of Cracker Barrel Slaw and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Chicken Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing summer treat! This recipe combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp greens, and a tangy honey dijon dressing that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup honey dijon dressing (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and feta cheese.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add on top of salad.
4. Drizzle honey dijon dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Honey Dijon Dressing:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, whisk until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Skewers with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your summer gatherings with this refreshing twist on grilled chicken skewers, paired with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. This recipe is perfect for warm weather cookouts and backyard barbecues.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 20 bamboo skewers
– Fresh pineapple chunks (about 1 cup)
– Red onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– Jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Cilantro, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño peppers, and cilantro in a bowl. Stir gently to combine.
6. Serve grilled chicken skewers with Pineapple Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Quarters with Sweet Tea Brine
Grilled Chicken Quarters with Sweet Tea Brine Recipe
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the rich flavors of sweet tea and brown sugar with tender grilled chicken quarters, resulting in a mouthwatering dish perfect for backyard barbecues or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters
– 1 cup strong brewed sweet tea (cooled)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together cooled sweet tea, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken quarters to the brine solution, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush both sides of each quarter with vegetable oil. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap Cracker Barrel Twist
Elevate your wrap game with this unique combination of grilled chicken, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons – all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble wraps by spreading Caesar dressing on each tortilla, then adding grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, and croutons.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Cornbread Stuffing Skillet
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled chicken, crispy cornbread stuffing, and creamy vegetables in a single skillet. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cornbread stuffing mix
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Grill the chicken breast for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes or until translucent.
4. Add the garlic, bell peppers, and cornbread stuffing mix to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the stuffing is lightly toasted.
5. Shred the grilled chicken breast and add it to the skillet. Stir in the chopped parsley and grated cheese.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Gravy
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a family gathering or casual meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mushrooms, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush chicken breasts with butter and season with thyme.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, in a separate pan over medium heat, add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer; let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve grilled chicken with creamy mushroom gravy spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Biscuit Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a flavorful breakfast bowl featuring grilled chicken, flaky biscuits, and creamy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups biscuit mix
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Pour in biscuit mix, stirring until combined. Add heavy cream and stir until dough forms. Drop by spoonfuls onto the pan, flattening slightly.
3. Cook biscuits for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, or until golden brown.
4. Crack egg into a microwave-safe bowl and cook on high for 30-45 seconds, or until set.
5. Assemble bowls with grilled chicken, biscuits, egg, and shredded cheese. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill this summer with these 20 delicious Cracker Barrel grilled chicken recipes! From classic herb butter to sweet tea brine, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy and citrusy or smoky and savory, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Plus, with options like grilled chicken tenders, sandwiches, salads, and more, you’ll never get bored with these Cracker Barrel-inspired recipes.