Chicken and rice—who doesn’t love it? I still remember the first time I tried Cracker Barrel’s version during a road trip, and I couldn’t get enough of that rich, creamy flavor with just the right balance of savory and hearty.

Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice Recipe at home, and after a few tweaks, I think I’ve nailed it!

It’s the kind of dish that fills the house with an irresistible aroma, calling everyone to the table before you even get a chance to plate it.

If you’re looking for a foolproof meal that hits all the right notes, this recipe is a must-try!

How To Make Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice Recipe At Home

This Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and rich in flavor.

Imagine tender chicken in a creamy mushroom sauce served with perfectly cooked rice, all in one cozy dish.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American

Course: Main Course
Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: 4 servings

Calories Per Serving: Approximately 430 calories

Ingredients

Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 1/2 lb chicken tenderloins, fresh
Sauce And Rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1/2 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Better than Bouillon Chicken Bouillon, heaping
- 1 cup water

Instructions

Prep The Chicken
- Dice the chicken thighs into small pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Sauté The Ingredients
- Heat a small amount of oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Cook the chopped onion for approximately three minutes, or until it becomes transparent.
- Add the fresh mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes until they soften.
Cook The Chicken
- Add the diced chicken thighs and chicken tenderloins to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Seasonings
- Stir in the garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and a heaping spoonful of Better than Bouillon Chicken Bouillon.
Create The Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and water. Stir everything together until it’s well-combined and let it simmer for 5-8 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add The Rice
- Gently stir in the cooked rice until it’s fully mixed with the chicken and creamy sauce. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Final Touches
- Adjust seasonings to taste if needed. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Cracker Barrel-style chicken and rice!

Why Does Chicken And Rice Go So Well Together?

Chicken and rice are a match made in food heaven! The tender chicken soaks up the creamy sauce, while the rice adds a fluffy texture to balance things out. Plus, they’re both mild-flavored, making it easy to add any seasoning or spices you love!

Cooking Tips

For Extra Flavor: Try sautéing your mushrooms with a bit of butter for an even richer taste.
Variations: You can use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner cut or swap out the cream of mushroom for cream of chicken.
Diet-Friendly Options: If you’re watching sodium, use a low-sodium broth and cut back on the added salt. You could also try using cauliflower rice to make it low-carb.

What To Add To Chicken And Rice For Flavor?

Adding garlic powder, fresh mushrooms, and bouillon creates that rich, savory depth. You can also sprinkle in a little paprika or thyme for an extra kick!

What Goes With Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice?

This cozy dish goes well with a fresh side salad or steamed green beans to balance out the creamy texture. For drinks, a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs perfectly with this homestyle meal.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Cracker Barrel Chicken And Rice?

With prep and cook time combined, you’ll have this meal ready in about 50 minutes. It’s a great option when you’re looking for something hearty but still quick.

Storing And Reheating Tips

Leftovers: Any leftovers can be kept for up to three days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Reheating: Pop it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: This dish freezes well too! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to 3 months. Before reheating, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Other Types Of Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice or jasmine rice works well, though they may alter the cook time slightly.

Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

Yes! Just replace the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free version or coconut cream for a unique flavor twist.

What’s The Best Way To Avoid Mushy Rice?

Make sure the rice is fully cooked but firm when adding it to the dish. Avoid over-stirring once it’s combined with the sauce.

Can I Add Vegetables To This Recipe?

Definitely! Peas, carrots, or even broccoli make great additions to this chicken and rice dish.

Try It Out!

I’d love for you to try this Cracker Barrel Chicken and Rice Recipe and let me know how it turned out! Snap a photo, share it with friends, and tag me on social media.

And if you’re looking for more comfort food recipes, check out my other chicken and rice variations on the blog! Happy cooking!

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Naznin Aktar

Author & Recipe Developer at Naznin's Kitchen

Hello! I'm Naznin Aktar, the food enthusiast and recipe curator at Naznin's Kitchen. Want to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes? Explore Naznin's Kitchen for a collection of recipes that are sure to inspire your inner chef and delight your loved ones.