Cracker Barrel Chicken Rice Recipe—Southern Style You’ll Love

Recreate the comforting, Southern-style Cracker Barrel chicken rice recipe at home with this creamy, easy copycat dish. Learn the secret to tender chicken, flavorful gravy, and perfectly cooked rice.

Introduction: Cracker Barrel Chicken Rice Recipe

If you’ve ever eaten at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, you probably remember their signature chicken and rice dish — tender chicken smothered in a rich, creamy gravy served over fluffy rice.

Although it’s no longer on the restaurant’s menu, the craving for that Cracker Barrel chicken rice recipe lives on. The good news? You can easily recreate it at home with simple ingredients.

This copycat chicken and rice recipe captures all the comforting Southern flavors—juicy chicken tenderloins, buttery rice, and a thick, savory sauce that feels like a warm hug.

It’s the ultimate comfort food—creamy, hearty, and perfect for weeknights or cozy weekends.

What Made the Original Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice So Popular

The original Cracker Barrel chicken and rice was a Southern classic loved for its rich flavor and simplicity. It featured slow-cooked chicken tenderloins simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce, served over perfectly cooked rice.

Unlike typical casseroles, this meal offered homestyle comfort, balanced seasoning, and a creamy texture that reminded diners of traditional family dinners. Its peppery sauce and tender chicken made it both nostalgic and satisfying.

Recreating that warm, comforting flavor in your kitchen is simple with this easy Cracker Barrel chicken rice recipe — a dish that’s deeply flavorful yet simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Copycat Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need for your Cracker Barrel chicken rice recipe:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Chicken tenderloins or boneless breasts	1 lb	Tenderloins are ideal for a softer texture
Long-grain white rice	1 cup	Cooked separately before mixing
Cream of mushroom soup	1 can (10.5 oz)	Adds creaminess and savory depth
Chicken broth	1 ½ cups	Use low-sodium for better flavor control
Butter	2 tbsp	Gives richness
Onion (chopped)	½ cup	Optional but enhances flavor
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	Adds aroma and warmth
Black pepper	½ tsp	For that signature spice
Salt	½ tsp	Adjust to taste
Paprika or parsley	For garnish	Optional, for color

These simple pantry staples come together to make a Southern-style chicken and rice that’s budget-friendly, creamy, and comforting. You can swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken, or use brown or wild rice for a healthy twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Cracker Barrel chicken rice recipe at home:

1. Cook the rice — Prepare long-grain white rice according to package directions. Fluff it and set aside.
2. Sear the chicken — In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken tenderloins and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the creamy sauce — In the same pan, sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. Add the cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
4. Simmer — Return the chicken to the pan, coat with sauce, and simmer for 20 minutes until tender.
5. Combine and serve — Spoon the chicken and gravy over rice, garnish with paprika or parsley, and serve warm.

Tip: To make a baked chicken rice casserole, layer the cooked rice in a baking dish, add the chicken and sauce, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.

This one-pot chicken and rice recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy families.

Tips for Perfecting the Chicken & Rice Dish

• Use chicken tenderloins for the most authentic Cracker Barrel texture.
• Thicken the sauce by simmering uncovered if it’s too watery.
• Don’t overcook the rice — keep it fluffy to soak up the gravy.
• Add depth with Worcestershire sauce or thyme.
• Make ahead — it reheats perfectly for meal prep or leftovers.

These small details guarantee your Cracker Barrel chicken rice recipe tastes creamy, savory, and perfectly balanced every time.

Variations, Substitutions & Healthy Tweaks

Want to customize your chicken and rice recipe? Try these ideas:

• Swap rice types: Use brown or wild rice for more fiber and flavor.
• Add veggies: Stir in peas, broccoli, or carrots for color and nutrition.
• Go lighter: Replace canned soup with a homemade white sauce made from milk and flour.
• Add protein: Mix in Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and protein.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne or hot sauce for a Southern kick.

You can also transform leftovers into a cheesy baked chicken rice casserole — just top with cheese and bake until bubbly.

What to Serve with Chicken and Rice + Storage Tips

Pair your Cracker Barrel chicken rice recipe with these classic Southern sides:

• Steamed green beans or buttered corn
• Homemade biscuits or cornbread
• Fresh salad with a light vinaigrette

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze portions for up to 2 months in freezer-safe bags.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.

This is a truly freezer-friendly chicken and rice meal that’s perfect for make-ahead dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does Cracker Barrel still serve chicken and rice?
No — it was discontinued, but this copycat recipe perfectly replicates the flavor and texture.

2. Can I use cream of chicken instead of mushroom soup?
Yes, and it actually makes the dish taste closer to the original restaurant version.

3. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Add all ingredients (except rice) and cook on low for 6–7 hours, then serve over hot rice.

4. How do I prevent soggy rice?
Cook rice separately and add it right before serving to keep it fluffy and firm.

5. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze cooled portions, then reheat for an easy, comforting meal later.

Conclusion

The Cracker Barrel chicken rice recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few basic ingredients, you can enjoy a creamy, hearty Southern classic right at home.

Whether you prefer a stovetop one-pot chicken and rice, a baked casserole, or a healthy variation, this dish never disappoints.

So go ahead — grab your skillet, stir up that creamy gravy, and bring the taste of Cracker Barrel home tonight.