Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken Recipe

So guys, I have Cracker Barrel’s maple bacon chicken on my top 25 list of favorite meals. That’s saying A LOT! And hear’s why…

The combination of smoky bacon, sweet maple, and juicy chicken is just too good to pass up.

One of the biggest keys to nailing this dish is using thick-cut bacon. Thinner slices won’t give you the same crispy texture that holds up against the maple glaze.

I like to cook the bacon separately first, so it stays crispy and doesn’t get lost in the sauce.

Another trick is letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. It helps lock in the juices so every bite is tender.

This recipe is all about balance—the salty, sweet, and savory elements work so well together without overpowering each other.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Chicken Breasts
• 8 slices Bacon
• 1 cup Maple Syrup
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1 tbsp Mustard Powder
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• ½ tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.

Place a rack over it.

Step 2:

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Wrap each piece with two slices of bacon.

Step 3:

Arrange the wrapped chicken on the rack.

Drizzle with half of the maple syrup.

Bake for 20 minutes.

Step 4:

Remove from the oven.

Brush with remaining maple syrup.

Top with cheddar cheese.

Step 5:

Return to the oven.

Bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use High-Quality Ingredients

Try to use high-quality chicken and grade A maple syrup for the best flavors in your dish.

Check Bacon Crispiness

If you love extra crispy bacon, broil the chicken for a few minutes after baking.

Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Cheese Variety

Feel free to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere if you want different flavor combinations.

Cheese pairs wonderfully with both bacon and maple in this recipe.

Let it Rest

After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Your patience will be rewarded with juicy, tender chicken.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken

Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes!

Creamy mashed potatoes complement the sweetness and saltiness of the maple bacon chicken perfectly.

Add a little garlic or cheese for some extra flavor.

Steamed Vegetables

Steamed vegetables provide a light, healthy contrast to your meal.

Broccoli, carrots, or green beans work well and bring vibrant color to your plate.

A simple seasoning of salt and pepper keeps it delicious and straightforward.

Waffles

Have you considered pairing your dish with waffles?

The maple elements in chicken and waffles sing in harmony together!

Try it for brunch or dinner, and enjoy a twist on the classic combination.

Berry Jam

Serving with berry jam adds a fruity and tangy note that pairs surprisingly well.

Spread a little on the side of the plate and dip each bite of chicken.

The contrast is bold and unexpected!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts have a nice crunch and slightly bitter taste that enhances the meal.

A little balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds extra depth.

Even people who aren’t Brussels sprouts fans might give these a try!

Variations and Substitutions

Healthier Options

You can substitute turkey bacon to cut down on fat while retaining that fantastic savory taste.

Using less cheese or opting for reduced-fat cheese can make the dish lighter without compromising flavor.

Sauce Alternatives

Try a honey mustard glaze instead of maple for a different kind of sweetness.

For a spicy kick, add some chipotle or sriracha to the mix—it’s all about experimenting to suit your taste.

Vegetarian Twist

Swap the chicken for thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

These alternatives will absorb the maple and bacon flavors beautifully and pair well with the same sides.

Cheese Choices

Feel free to change the cheese; Gouda or Swiss could bring an interesting dimension.

Each cheese lends its unique flavor, so choose according to what you prefer for a new twist.

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken

Cooling Down

Allow your leftover Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Chicken to cool at room temperature, but only for about an hour at the maximum.

Any longer than this could cause safety concerns.

Your goal is to prevent bacteria growth, which is an absolute must for food safety.

Proper Packaging

Once it’s cool, transfer the chicken to an airtight container.

If you don’t have a container, tightly wrap it in aluminum foil or use cling wrap.

This helps keep the chicken fresh and prevents it from drying out in the fridge.

Refrigeration Tips

Store it promptly in the refrigerator without delay and aim to use it within three to four days to enjoy the best taste.

Label the container with the date, so you can easily keep track of its freshness.

Do not forget to store it on the middle or lower shelves where the temperature is most consistent!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

One mistake is leaving the chicken breasts in the oven for too long, which can dry them out quickly.

When you are grilling, check them frequently to maintain their juicy texture.

A meat thermometer can be very handy to get that perfect result.

Skipping the Bacon Securing

Don’t forget to secure the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during baking.

This mistake can lead to uneven cooking and presentation challenges.

Just remember to remove those toothpicks before serving to your family or guests!

Ignoring Seasoning Balance

Another common mistake is not balancing the sweetness of maple syrup with savory elements.

You want every bite to be a perfect combination of flavors.

Consider adding just the right amount of salt and spices to bring harmony to your dish.