Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is a beloved dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. This hearty meal features tender chicken in a rich, savory broth, with fluffy dumplings. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s a delightful comfort food that many enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

2 to 3 cups of cooked chicken breast, torn into bite-sized pieces
6 cups of chicken broth
2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon of baking powder
1 ¼ teaspoons of salt
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of milk

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer gently. This fragrant broth will serve as the base for your dumplings and chicken.

Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. This blend is essential for fluffy dumplings.
Gradually pour in the milk, stirring the mixture until it becomes smooth. This simple dough will be transformed into the dumplings we all love.

Step 3: Rest the Dough

Let the dough rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the baking powder to activate, ensuring a lighter texture in your dumplings.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

On a generously floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about ½ inch. Keeping the dough flour-coated helps prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cut the Dumplings

Using a pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into ½ inch squares. These squares will puff up nicely in the simmering broth.

Step 6: Cook the Dumplings

Carefully drop the dough squares into the simmering broth. Let them cook for about 25 minutes, stirring gently to prevent them from sticking together. As they cook, they will expand and become fluffy.

Step 7: Add the Chicken

After the dumplings have cooked, it’s time to add the cooked chicken breast. Stir it in and let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes. This step melds the flavors perfectly.

Pro Tips and Variations

To make your Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings even more special, consider these tips:

Use Homemade Broth: If you have time, homemade chicken broth will add a rich flavor that store-bought broth may lack.
Add Vegetables: For a heartier dish, toss in some carrots, celery, or peas before adding the dumplings. They add both nutrition and color.
Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkle in some black pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the taste profile. Add them towards the end of cooking for a fresh touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a splash of color. Pair it with a side salad or cornbread for a complete meal that warms the heart. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and taste just as good the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish.

Conclusion

Crafting Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings at home is achievable, and the final result is truly satisfying. With each spoonful, you experience the comfort of this classic dish, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or chilly evenings. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s not just food—it’s a tradition.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure you cook it fully before shredding it into pieces.

How can I make the dumplings fluffier?

Letting the dough rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting helps create a lighter texture in the dumplings.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings store well and can be reheated conveniently.

Can I add other proteins?

While chicken is classic, you can use turkey or even a mix of chicken and vegetables for a unique twist.

How long does it take to prepare?

From start to finish, this dish typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Embrace the warmth of home-cooked meals with Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings, and create lasting memories with every bite. Happy cooking!

Amelia

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A beloved dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia, featuring tender chicken in a thick broth with fluffy dumplings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 ¼ teaspoons salt
1 ¼ cups milk 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons

For the Main Dish

2 to 3 cups cooked chicken breast, torn into bite-sized pieces
6 cups chicken broth homemade is preferred for richer flavor

Method

Preparation

In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer gently.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually pour in the milk, stirring the mixture until it becomes smooth.
Let the dough rest for about 5 to 10 minutes.
On a generously floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about ½ inch.
Using a pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into ½ inch squares.

Cooking

Carefully drop the dough squares into the simmering broth and let them cook for about 25 minutes.
Once the dumplings have cooked, add the cooked chicken breast and stir it in.
Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes.

Notes

Serve hot garnished with chopped parsley. This dish can be paired with a side salad or cornbread. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days.