If you’re a fan of comfort food with a touch of southern charm, Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken is a dish that’s sure to tickle your taste buds.
This delightful recipe combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the sweetness of maple glaze, creating a flavor profile that’s both savory and satisfying.
Recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel’s Maple Bacon Chicken in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Recipe of Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Maple Bacon Glaze:
- 1/2 cup real maple syrup
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Make the Maple Bacon Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, crumbled bacon, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Allow the glaze to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Bake:
- Pour the maple bacon glaze over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Baste the chicken with the glaze halfway through the cooking time for extra flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the oven.
- Spoon some of the glaze over the chicken before serving.
- Garnish with additional crumbled bacon and fresh thyme for an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the Maple Bacon Chicken with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
- Drizzle any remaining glaze over the side dishes for a cohesive flavor experience.
Also Check Out: Hennessy Pound Cake Recipe
Benefits of Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken
- Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken offers a tantalizing flavor fusion that combines the savory goodness of perfectly seared chicken with the smoky richness of bacon and the sweet notes of a maple glaze. The marriage of these distinct flavors creates a culinary experience that is both sophisticated and comforting, making each bite a symphony of taste sensations.
- Easy Preparation for Home Cooks: One of the significant benefits of this recipe is its simplicity. Home cooks can easily recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel’s Maple Bacon Chicken with straightforward steps and readily available ingredients. The recipe’s ease of preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, allowing them to achieve restaurant-quality results in the comfort of their own kitchens.
- Versatile Meal Option: The Maple Bacon Chicken is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes, allowing for a customizable dining experience. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad, this dish adapts well to different preferences and dietary needs, making it a go-to option for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Balanced and Wholesome Ingredients: This recipe incorporates a balance of wholesome ingredients, including boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, and a maple bacon glaze made with real maple syrup. By using quality ingredients, the dish not only delivers on flavor but also provides a satisfying and wholesome meal for those conscious of their dietary choices.
- Appealing Visual Presentation: Beyond its delightful taste, the Maple Bacon Chicken boasts an appealing visual presentation. The glossy maple glaze, crumbled bacon, and golden-brown seared chicken create an aesthetically pleasing dish that adds a touch of elegance to the dining table. This visual appeal makes the dish suitable for special occasions or when seeking to impress guests with a visually stunning and delicious main course.
Nutritional Facts of Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken
It’s important to note that the nutritional information for Cracker Barrel’s Maple Bacon Chicken may vary depending on the specific preparation and portion sizes. The following values are approximate and based on a typical homemade version of the recipe, serving four people:
Nutritional Facts per Serving:
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 800mg
Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: 4% DV
- Vitamin C: 2% DV
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
These values are based on a 2000-calorie daily intake, and actual values may vary depending on specific ingredients and cooking methods. It’s important to consider individual dietary needs and adjust portion sizes accordingly.
Additionally, this dish is relatively high in protein, providing essential nutrients for muscle health, but it also contains a notable amount of added sugars and fats, so it’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Always consult with a nutritionist or healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Conclusion:
Cracker Barrel’s Maple Bacon Chicken recipe brings together classic southern flavors in a dish that’s simple to make yet impressively delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The combination of savory chicken, smoky bacon, and sweet maple glaze creates a harmonious flavor profile that captures the essence of comfort food with a touch of southern hospitality. Try it for yourself and savor the warmth and richness of this delightful dish.