A Closer Look at the Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken Entree
Cracker Barrel's Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken is a popular menu item known for its combination of savory and sweet flavors. The dish features two grilled chicken breasts topped with a sweet and smoky maple glaze, crisp bacon pieces, melted Colby cheese, and a sprinkle of diced green onions. The calorie count of 850 pertains to this entree alone, before the two included Country Sides are added. The final calorie count can vary dramatically based on your side dish choices.
Nutritional Breakdown of the Entree
For those monitoring their intake, understanding the specific nutritional components of the 850-calorie entree is crucial. The figures below are based on information from reliable nutritional tracking databases:
- Total Calories: 850 kcal
- Total Fat: 43g (which accounts for 45% of the total calories)
- Saturated Fat: 19g, representing 95% of the recommended daily value
- Cholesterol: 265mg, which is 88% of the recommended daily value
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g (representing 16% of the total calories)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 27g
- Protein: 82g (making up 38% of the total calories)
- Sodium: 1810mg, which is 75% of the recommended daily value and a significant portion of the total
The Critical Role of Side Dishes
When ordering the Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken, remember that it is served with two Country Sides. These side dishes are a major variable that can significantly increase the total calorie count of your meal. The nutritional density of sides can range from relatively low to very high, making careful selection key for those with specific dietary goals. For example, a side of Hashbrown Casserole adds 190 calories, while Steamed Broccoli adds only 40 calories. A meal with two high-calorie sides could push the total calories well over 1,000.
How to Order a Healthier Version
Making a few simple modifications to your order can help reduce the overall calories and sodium. For instance, you can request lighter side options or ask for the maple glaze to be served on the side, allowing you to control how much you use.
- Choose Lighter Sides: Swap higher-calorie, cheese-heavy sides like Macaroni & Cheese or Loaded Hashbrown Casserole for vegetable options such as Steamed Broccoli or Country Green Beans.
- Control Sauces: Ask for the sweet n' smoky maple glaze and the ranch drizzle to be placed on the side. This allows you to use less, reducing the sugar and fat content.
- Hold the Cheese: Request that the melted cheese on top of the chicken be omitted. This will save a number of calories and fat grams without sacrificing the dish's core flavor.
Comparison of Cracker Barrel Chicken Entrees
Here is a comparison of different chicken entrees available at Cracker Barrel to provide context for your dining choices. Note that nutritional information can vary slightly by location and time, so always check the official guide for the most accurate data.
| Dish | Calories (approx.) | Carbs (approx.) | Protein (approx.) | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken | 850 | 35g | 82g | High in protein, but also high in fat, sugar, and sodium from the toppings and glaze. |
| Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken | 380 | Not specified | Not specified | Significantly lower calorie count than the maple bacon version, focusing on a more classic grilled flavor. |
| Grilled Chicken Tenders | 320 | Not specified | Not specified | A great low-calorie, lean protein option when paired with healthy sides like steamed vegetables. |
| Chicken Fried Chicken | 590 | Not specified | Not specified | A higher-calorie choice due to the frying process, though less than the maple bacon entree. |
Where to Find Official Cracker Barrel Nutrition Information
For the most up-to-date and comprehensive nutrition information, it is always best to consult the restaurant's official resources. Cracker Barrel provides detailed information on its website, including a full nutrition and allergen guide for all menu items. You can access their official nutrition information here: Cracker Barrel Restaurant | Nutrition & Allergy Information.
Conclusion
The Cracker Barrel Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken entree is a substantial meal on its own, with 850 calories, 43 grams of fat, and 1810mg of sodium, even before considering side dishes. While the high protein content of 82 grams is a positive, the added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium from the maple glaze, bacon, and cheese make it a less-than-ideal choice for those on a restrictive diet. By customizing your order—such as opting for lighter sides and controlling sauces—it is possible to enjoy a more balanced meal that still captures the essence of Cracker Barrel's homestyle cooking.
