When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can hold a candle to cracker barrel chicken and dumplings. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as tender chicken simmers in a flavorful broth, surrounded by fluffy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth. The first spoonful is like a warm hug on a chilly day, an invitation to cozy up with loved ones around the dinner table.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory-maker. Whether it’s a rainy day or family gathering, cracker barrel chicken and dumplings has the power to bring people together. My fondest memories revolve around this dish, from my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter to lazy Sundays spent enjoying every hearty bite. If you’re looking for a comforting meal that tastes like home, buckle up—this recipe will take you on a delicious ride.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful cracker barrel chicken and dumplings recipe combines ease of preparation with rich flavors
- It’s visually appealing and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings
- The fluffy dumplings are versatile enough to pair with various sides or stand alone as a hearty meal
You’ll find this dish brings smiles and happy sighs from family members who recall their own cherished moments associated with chicken and dumplings.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
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All-Purpose Flour: Essential for making those fluffy dumplings; you can also use whole wheat if that’s your jam.
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Milk: Whole milk adds richness to the dough; skim milk will work too but might not be as luscious.
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Baking Powder: This ingredient makes your dumplings rise beautifully; always check its expiration date!
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for better flavor control; it adds richness to both the broth and dumplings.
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Onion and Celery: These aromatics create a flavorful base—don’t skimp on them!
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Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Thyme): Simple yet essential; they bring all those delicious flavors together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare yourself for an adventure in cooking! Trust me; it’s going to be fun.
Step One: Prepare Your Chicken: Start by placing your chicken breasts in a large pot filled with water or low-sodium chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. As the chicken cooks, you’ll start smelling that savory goodness wafting through your kitchen.
Step Two: Sauté Your Aromatics: In a skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and diced celery. Stir until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it! The aroma is simply irresistible.
Step Three: Make the Dumpling Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add milk and melted butter into the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing; we want fluffy dumplings!
Step Four: Shred Your Chicken: Once your chicken is cooked through (about 15-20 minutes), remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the pot along with sautéed veggies.
Step Five: Add Dumplings to Broth: Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the bubbling broth—don’t worry about making them perfect! Cover with a lid and let them steam for about 10-15 minutes until they’re fluffy.
Step Six: Season to Taste : Give everything a good stir once more! Adjust seasonings if needed by adding thyme or additional salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Now scoop out generous servings of this warm delight into bowls! Don’t forget some crusty bread on the side—you’ll want something to mop up all that delicious broth!
Enjoy every comforting bite while reminiscing about how many memorable moments you’ve shared around this timeless dish!
You Must Know
- This delicious cracker barrel chicken and dumplings recipe brings comfort food to a new level
- The rich flavors and tender dumplings create a warm, inviting dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
- You’ll be the star of any dinner table with this classic recipe!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then simmer it with broth while preparing the dumplings for perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add your favorite vegetables like carrots and peas for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently on the stove to keep dumplings from getting mushy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best cracker barrel chicken and dumplings, use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor
- Don’t rush the simmering process; let those flavors meld beautifully
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for maximum satisfaction
Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air as we savored every bite together.
FAQ
What type of chicken should I use for cracker barrel chicken and dumplings?
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs ensures tenderness and flavor in your dish.
Can I make cracker barrel chicken and dumplings ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make my dumplings fluffier?
For fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing the dough; gentle handling is key to light texture.
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and soul. This hearty dish features tender chicken simmered in a savory broth, paired with fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe evokes cherished memories while providing a delicious meal everyone will love. Gather around the dinner table and enjoy a bowl of nostalgia, as you savor every bite of this classic dish.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring chicken breasts and broth to a gentle boil over medium heat. Cook until chicken is tender (15-20 minutes). Remove and shred the chicken.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in milk and melted butter until just combined.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot with sautéed veggies. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the bubbling broth.
- Cover and steam dumplings for 10-15 minutes until fluffy. Adjust seasonings before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
