Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Enjoy comforting, Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings that bring warmth and nostalgia to your dining table. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or when you simply crave a taste of home. Rich broth envelops tender chicken, while fluffy dumplings add a delightful texture, making it a standout favorite for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Most items in the pantry make this dish easy to prepare without fancy shopping trips.
• Quick Prep Time: With only 5 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe channels the beloved Cracker Barrel flavors that everyone loves.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty meal, making it ideal for family dinners.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside your favorite sides for a complete feast.

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Tools and Preparation

Preparing Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings requires a few essential tools. Having them handy ensures smooth cooking and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Medium mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the chicken and dumplings, allowing even heat distribution.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dumpling dough to achieve the perfect thickness for fluffy results.

Ingredients

For the Broth and Chicken

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 celery ribs, broken into large pieces
• ½ medium onion (keep intact as a large piece)
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved

For the Dumplings

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup plus 2 tbsp milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Simmer partially covered for about 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Dumpling Dough

While the chicken cooks:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gently stir in milk until the mixture forms a shaggy dough ball.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Place dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thick.
Using a pizza cutter or knife:
– Slice dough into strips or squares (approximately 1–2 inches wide).

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

When the chicken is fully cooked:
1. Remove from broth and set aside on a cutting board.
2. Discard celery pieces and onion from the broth.

Step 5: Add Dumplings to Broth

Carefully drop dough strips into simmering broth while stirring gently. Simmer dumplings for approximately 20–30 minutes:
– Stir occasionally until dumplings are cooked through and broth thickens to gravy-like consistency.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

As dumplings cook:
– Shred or chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
– Return shredded chicken to the pot and mix gently.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal!

How to Serve Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Serving Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is an enjoyable experience that elevates any meal. This dish is not only hearty but also pairs well with various sides and accompaniments.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Adding fresh parsley enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color.
• Thyme sprigs: A few thyme leaves can bring an aromatic touch to your chicken and dumplings.

With Biscuits

• Buttermilk biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits make a perfect companion to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic bread: This flavorful bread adds a crunchy texture alongside the creamy dumplings.

With Salads

• Caesar salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the rich chicken and dumplings beautifully.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that balances the dish’s warmth.

With Pickles

• Dill pickles: Their tanginess contrasts nicely with the richness of the chicken and dumplings.
• Bread and butter pickles: For a sweeter option, these pickles add a unique flavor twist.

How to Perfect Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

To make your Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings truly shine, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use quality chicken broth: The better the broth, the richer the flavor of your dish will be.
• Don’t overmix dough: Mix just until combined for fluffy dumplings; overmixing can lead to tough dumplings.
• Simmer gently: A gentle simmer allows flavors to meld without breaking apart your dumplings.
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go! Proper seasoning enhances all elements of this comfort food.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes thickens the broth even more, making it heartier.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

When enjoying your warm bowl of Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings, side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide an extra layer of comfort.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Fresh green beans add color and a healthy crunch to balance out the meal.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for soaking up leftover broth from the dish.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts deliver earthy flavors that complement the main dish well.
5. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: This classic side offers cheesy goodness that pairs perfectly with chicken and dumplings.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors in your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using low-quality broth: A rich, flavorful broth is key. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough, so ensure it reaches just the right doneness.
• Not adjusting dumpling thickness: If your dumplings are too thick, they may not cook through. Aim for about ¼-inch thickness for fluffy results.
• Skipping seasoning: Always season to taste. Adding salt and pepper enhances flavors; don’t forget to season both the broth and chicken before serving.
• Neglecting to stir gently: When adding dumplings to the broth, stir gently to avoid breaking them apart. Careful handling keeps them intact.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings, along with their answers.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I serve with homemade chicken and dumplings?

Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How long do homemade chicken and dumplings last?

They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings recipe offers warmth and comfort in every bite. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like carrots or peas for extra flavor!