Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice Recipe: Homey Elegance

For those who seek a taste of homey goodness, Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice Recipe stands as a culinary masterpiece, reminiscent of a warm family gathering around the dinner table.

This beloved dish, inspired by the hearty flavors of Southern cuisine, has won the hearts of many with its tender chicken enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce, nestled atop a bed of fluffy rice.

Prepare to embark on a delectable journey as we delve into the secrets of this comforting recipe, transforming your kitchen into a haven of culinary enchantment.

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice Recipe
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice Recipe

How to Prepare Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice Recipe?

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4-6 servings

Equipment Needed:

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Oven-safe baking dish

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Saute the Aromatics:

Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

2. Cook the Chicken:

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Season with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased oven-safe baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly at the bottom. Pour the chicken and sauce mixture over the rice, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

6. Bake and Serve:

Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the rice is cooked through. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy the comforting goodness of Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice with your loved ones.

Nutrition Facts Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice Recipe

Nutrition Amount
Calories350
Fat15g
Carbohydrates40g
Protein25g
Sodium900mg

Serving Suggestions:

1. Traditional Side Dishes:

Pair this delectable dish with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

2. Fresh Herbs:

Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or thyme for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

3. A Touch of Spice:

For those who crave a hint of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a subtle kick.

Tips and Variations:

1. Protein Variations:

Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp, diced turkey, or crumbled tofu for a twist on the classic recipe.

2. Rice Alternatives:

Experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice, for a change in texture and flavor.

3. Dietary Restrictions:

Adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs by using gluten-free rice and dairy-free alternatives for the cream soups and heavy cream.

Health Benefits:

1. Protein Powerhouse:

The chicken provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.

2. Creamy Goodness:

The cream soups add a rich and creamy texture while contributing calcium, vital for bone health.

3. Rice for Energy:

Rice serves as a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities.

Does Cracker Barrel Still Have Chicken And Rice

No, Cracker Barrel discontinued their Chicken and Rice dish in 2021. The decision to remove the dish from the menu was likely due to changing customer preferences and a focus on streamlining operations.

However, many fans of the dish have expressed their disappointment over its removal, and there are many copycat recipes available online for those who want to recreate the dish at home.

Why Did Cracker Barrel Stop Serving Chicken And Rice

There are a few possible reasons why Cracker Barrel stopped serving their Chicken and Rice dish in 2021.

1. Changing customer preferences: Over time, customer tastes and preferences tend to change. It is possible that Cracker Barrel’s customers were no longer as interested in ordering Chicken and Rice as they had been in the past.

2. A focus on streamlining operations: Restaurants are always looking for ways to improve their efficiency and profitability.

It is possible that Cracker Barrel decided to discontinue Chicken and Rice in order to simplify their menu and make their operations more efficient.

3. The cost of ingredients: The cost of ingredients can fluctuate over time. It is possible that the cost of ingredients for Chicken and Rice had increased to the point where it was no longer profitable for Cracker Barrel to serve the dish.

4. Competition: Cracker Barrel faces competition from other restaurants in the same casual dining segment.

It is possible that Cracker Barrel decided to discontinue Chicken and Rice in order to focus on dishes that were more unique and differentiated from their competitors’ offerings.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to continue serving a particular dish is a complex one that restaurants must make based on a variety of factors.

It is possible that a combination of the reasons listed above led Cracker Barrel to discontinue Chicken and Rice.

FAQ:

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time for a convenient meal preparation option. Simply prepare the sauce as instructed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, assemble the casserole and bake according to the instructions.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Simply thaw the chicken completely before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. The cooking time may need to be slightly adjusted to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Can I substitute the cream soups?

Yes, you can substitute the cream soups with healthier alternatives. For a dairy-free option, use condensed plant-based soups or create your own creamy sauce using a combination of flour, vegetable broth, and non-dairy milk.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.

Conclusion

As you embark on the culinary journey of creating Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice Recipe, let your kitchen become a haven of tantalizing aromas and comforting flavors.

With each step, you’ll discover the secrets to crafting this beloved dish, transforming simple ingredients into a symphony of tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe offers a delightful adventure in culinary creation.

Embrace the warmth and comfort of this dish, and let the flavors transport you to a place of pure culinary bliss.

So, gather your ingredients, sharpen your culinary skills, and embark on a journey to create Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice Recipe, a masterpiece that will fill your home with the essence of homey goodness.

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice Recipe

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice Recipe

Savor the comforting flavors of our Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice recipe. This hearty dish features tender chicken and fluffy rice in a savory sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it's a timeless classic that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul with every delicious bite. Enjoy!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Knife
  • Oven-safe baking dish

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 1 10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 10.5-ounce can cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Saute the Aromatics:

  • Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken:

  • Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Season with dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Combine Chicken and Sauce:

  • Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly.

Assemble the Casserole:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased oven-safe baking dish, spread the cooked rice evenly at the bottom. Pour the chicken and sauce mixture over the rice, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

Bake and Serve:

  • Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the rice is cooked through. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy the comforting goodness of Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice with your loved ones.
Keyword Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice Recipe
Hello, I'm Popy Aktar, and I'm the chicken recipe creator over at yammichickenrecipe.com blog. With a deep-seated passion for all things delicious and a commitment to healthy creativity in the kitchen, I've dedicated four years to perfecting the craft of chicken recipe development and presentation. Through numerous cooking experiments, I've refined my skills and am eager to share my knowledge and experiences with you. I'm particularly fond of trying out new recipes, especially when they turn out to be irresistibly delicious. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do! Thank you for your time!
Popy Aktar

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