There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, isn’t there? I can still remember the first time I had this comforting dish at Cracker Barrel with my family; the aroma filled the air, and I felt like I was wrapped in a cozy blanket. This Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe brings all those wonderful memories flooding back, and trust me, it’s just as satisfying to make at home! The tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and rich broth come together to create a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a little comfort food in your life. Let’s dive in and whip up this deliciousness together!
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Prepare Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! This recipe is straightforward, but let’s break it down step-by-step so you can get that deliciousness just right. Trust me, the smell of this dish simmering on the stove is going to make your mouth water and your kitchen feel like home.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab your whole chicken and place it in a large pot. Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Let it boil for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat easily falls off the bone!
- Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and let it cool on a plate. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside. Don’t forget to keep that flavorful broth simmering on the stove!
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt until combined. This is the base for your fluffy dumplings.
- Next, add in the 1/4 cup of melted butter and the 1 cup of milk to the flour mixture. Stir it all together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those dumplings to be light and airy!
- Now, it’s time to drop spoonfuls of that delightful dough into the boiling broth. I like to use a tablespoon for this—just scoop and plop! Make sure to leave some space between each dumpling because they’ll puff up as they cook.
- Once you’ve added all the dumplings, toss in the shredded chicken, chopped onion, chopped celery, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything, then cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll want to avoid lifting the lid too much to keep the steam in; that’s what helps the dumplings cook perfectly!
After that, you’ll have a comforting, hearty dish that’s just begging to be served. I can already picture you diving into that warm bowl of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings.
- Simple and straightforward preparation—if I can do it, so can you!
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich broth that warms your soul.
- Fluffy dumplings that are so satisfying; they practically melt in your mouth!
- Hearty and filling, this dish is sure to please even the hungriest of eaters.
- It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken if you have any on hand.
- This recipe is versatile; feel free to throw in your favorite veggies for added texture and taste.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
- Each bowl is like a warm hug, reminding you of home and family.
Tips for Success with Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Alright, let me share some of my favorite tips to make sure your Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings turn out absolutely perfect! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you master this comforting dish like a pro.
- Choose the right chicken: Using a whole chicken really enhances the flavor of the broth. If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken works great too! Just add it at the end to keep it tender.
- Don’t rush the boiling: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before shredding. The broth is not just for flavor; it’s the heart of this dish, so let it work its magic!
- Mix gently: When combining the flour mixture with the milk and butter, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings, and we want them light and fluffy!
- Watch the dumpling size: Keep your dumplings uniform in size for even cooking. A tablespoon works wonders for this! And remember, they’ll puff up, so don’t overcrowd the pot.
- Steam is key: Keep the lid on while simmering! It helps the dumplings cook through and keeps the broth rich and flavorful. Lifting the lid too often lets the steam escape.
- Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning! A little extra salt or pepper can go a long way in enhancing the flavors. Taste your broth before adding the chicken and dumplings.
- Let it rest: If you can, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. Plus, it’ll be easier to serve!
- Feel free to experiment: Don’t hesitate to throw in your favorite veggies—carrots, peas, or even corn can add a delightful twist to the classic recipe!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a soul-warming bowl of chicken and dumplings that’ll bring everyone to the table. Enjoy every bite!
Variations on Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
If you’re like me, you love a recipe that can be easily adapted to fit your taste or whatever you have on hand! Here are some fun variations on my Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe that’ll keep things interesting:
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in some chopped carrots, peas, or green beans along with the onion and celery. This not only adds color but also boosts the nutrition—plus, who doesn’t love a little veggie crunch?
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Just a sprinkle can elevate the flavor profile and give your dish that extra aromatic touch!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the broth. It’ll give your dish a delightful twist and a nice warming sensation!
- Cheesy Dumplings: For a rich and indulgent twist, mix in some shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) into the dumpling dough. Who can resist cheesy, fluffy dumplings? I know I can’t!
- Creamy Variation: For a creamier broth, stir in a can of cream of chicken soup or a bit of heavy cream just before serving. This will make the dish even more luscious and comforting!
- Asian Twist: Swap out the traditional herbs and spices for some soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Add bok choy or snap peas for a unique take on chicken and dumplings that’s packed with flavor!
- Southern Style: Incorporate some crumbled bacon or sausage for an extra savory element. Trust me, the smoky flavor will take this dish to another level!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your cravings! The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Before we dive into the deliciousness, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the nutritional aspect of our meals! Just a quick note: the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. Always best to adjust based on your own cooking style and ingredients!
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
With all that flavor packed into each bowl, you can enjoy this comforting dish knowing it’s not just delicious, but also reasonably balanced. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you want to impress family and friends!
FAQ about Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen chicken works just fine. Just make sure to extend the boiling time a bit until it’s fully cooked through. You’ll still get that delicious broth flavor!
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries! You can use water instead, but I highly recommend adding some bouillon cubes or chicken base to enhance the flavor. It’ll still come out comforting and tasty!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to maintain that wonderful texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and broth ahead, but I recommend making the dumplings fresh just before serving. They tend to get a bit soggy if reheated too much!
What’s the best way to reheat chicken and dumplings?
When reheating, do it slowly on the stove over low heat if possible. Stir occasionally until warmed through. This helps keep the dumplings from getting too mushy.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is super flexible. Feel free to add in carrots, peas, or even corn for a delightful twist. Just toss them in with the onions and celery!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make this gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings. Just check the package for the right measurements, and you’ll be good to go!
Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing the dumplings as they can become mushy. However, you can freeze the broth and shredded chicken separately. Just reassemble everything fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying your Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings for days to come! To keep everything fresh and tasty, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s best to store the chicken and dumplings together, but if you prefer, you can keep the dumplings separate from the broth to maintain their fluffy texture.
When it comes to refrigerating, your leftovers will be good for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label the container with the date so you don’t forget! If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken and broth separately. Just remember, freezing the dumplings might make them a bit mushy when reheated, so it’s best to prepare them fresh.
Now, for reheating, I’ve got a little tip that’ll keep everything delicious: use the stove! Gently warm your chicken and dumplings over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method helps to retain the flavors and keeps the dumplings from turning too soft. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. You want it to be comforting and creamy, just like when you first made it!
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can keep enjoying that warm, cozy bowl of chicken and dumplings anytime you crave a taste of comfort. Happy eating!
Print
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe that Comforts You
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting dish of chicken and dumplings inspired by Cracker Barrel.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 pounds)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the chicken in chicken broth until cooked through. Remove chicken, shred it, and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add melted butter and milk to the flour mixture. Stir until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the boiling broth.
- Add shredded chicken, onion, celery, and pepper to the pot.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are cooked.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for a quicker option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cracker barrel chicken and dumplings recipe