Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. This hearty meal combines tender, shredded chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth, making it a favorite for families across the country. Whether you’re reminiscing about a cozy meal at Cracker Barrel or seeking comfort on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Why We Love This Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
There’s something special about Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings that strikes a chord with many home cooks and families. It’s not just the taste; it’s the entire experience of gathering around the table and sharing a meal that feels like a warm hug. The combination of simple, wholesome ingredients creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, this recipe allows you to bring a little piece of Cracker Barrel’s charm right into your home kitchen. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a batch, and the delightful aroma that fills your home as it simmers is simply irresistible.
Ingredients About Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
To create this comforting dish, you will need a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the flavor and texture that makes Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings a timeless classic. Here’s what you’ll need:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
How to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Directions
Making Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful process that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal. Here’s how to prepare this comforting dish step-by-step:
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your chicken is cooked and shredded—this can be done ahead of time to save on prep.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. As the butter begins to sizzle, it will create a rich base for your dish.
- Add the chopped onions and celery to the pot and sauté them for about 5 minutes. You want them to soften and become fragrant, releasing their flavors into the butter.
- Once the onions and celery are tender, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. The broth will become the star of your delicious meal.
- Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir the dry ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Gradually add the milk to your dry ingredients, mixing until a thick dough forms. This dough will be used to create the dumplings that will float on top of the broth.
- Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the bubbling broth. Allow them to cook without stirring for about 15 minutes. As they cook, they will puff up and absorb the delicious flavors from the broth.
- After the dumplings have cooked, stir in the shredded chicken and let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes. This final step ensures that the chicken warms through and melds with the rich broth.
- Serve the dish hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the delightful texture of the dumplings.
How to Serve Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Serving Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is all about creating a cozy dining experience. Start by ladling generous portions into bowls, enjoying the sight of the hearty broth and fluffy dumplings. You might want to serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to balance out the richness. The deep, savory broth pairs perfectly with buttery biscuits or cornbread, making for a satisfying meal. For a rustic touch, you can set out all the sides family-style, inviting everyone to help themselves. Don’t forget to have extra broth on hand for those who love a little more sauce!
Expert Tips: Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Creating the perfect Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings requires a bit of technique and understanding of your ingredients. Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Use Quality Broth: The flavor of your chicken broth can make or break this dish. Opt for homemade or a high-quality store-bought broth to enhance the overall taste.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining the dry ingredients with the milk, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense dumplings rather than the light, fluffy texture you want.
- Adjust the Thickness: If your broth is too thick, feel free to add more chicken broth or a splash more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to suit your palate. A bit of garlic powder or a pinch of thyme can add extra depth to the flavor.
- Make Ahead and Reheat: You can prepare the chicken and dumplings ahead of time and then reheat them gently. Just be aware that the dumplings may absorb some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of broth when reheating.
How to Store Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Storing your Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings properly will ensure you can enjoy leftovers without sacrificing quality. To store the dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Pour the chicken and dumplings into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you leave some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth or water to restore the creamy texture.
Variation of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
There are many ways to put a personal twist on Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Experimenting with different ingredients can lead to exciting new flavors. Here are some variations to consider:
- Vegetable Boost: Add diced carrots, peas, or corn to the broth for extra nutrition and color. These vegetables will not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill can elevate your dish. Toss in some fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of flavor.
- Dumpling Style: For a twist on the classic dumpling, try making a biscuit topping instead. This method involves spreading a simple biscuit dough over the simmering broth instead of dropping spoonfuls of dough.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the broth. This addition will give your dish an unexpected, delightful kick.
- Alternative Proteins: While chicken is traditional, you can use cooked turkey or even shredded beef for a different take on this comforting classic.
FAQ
What is Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings?
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is a hearty dish made with shredded chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich chicken broth. It is a comforting meal that is often associated with family dinners and gatherings.
How long does it take to make Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings?
The preparation time is relatively short, typically around 10–15 minutes, and the cooking time is about 30 minutes. In total, you can expect to have this comforting dish ready in about 45 minutes.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. It adds flavor and minimizes prep time since it is already cooked.
Is it possible to freeze Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings?
Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain the creamy consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the chicken with plant-based proteins or more vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
By following this guide, you’ll not only create a delightful meal but also cultivate memories around the dining table with loved ones, enjoying every flavorful bite of your homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Happy cooking!
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup milk
For the Soup
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use quality broth for better flavor.
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients, ensuring the chicken is cooked and shredded.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix.
- Gradually add milk to the dry ingredients, mixing until a thick dough forms.
Cooking
- Once the broth is boiling, reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the broth and allow to cook for about 15 minutes without stirring.
- After the dumplings have cooked, stir in the shredded chicken and let everything simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
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