Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Enjoy the warmth and comfort of Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings. This dish brings together a rich broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings that make it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its simple preparation and hearty flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish combines the flavors of home with every bite, making it a true comfort meal.
• Easy to Prepare: The straightforward steps ensure that even beginner cooks can create this delicious dish.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, these chicken and dumplings are always a hit.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Hearty and Filling: This meal is satisfying enough to be enjoyed on its own, perfect for hungry appetites.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the necessary items you will need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the broth and cooking the chicken evenly.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for combining dry ingredients when preparing dumpling dough.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dumpling dough to achieve the desired thickness.

Ingredients

Enjoy comforting, homemade chicken and dumplings inspired by the classic Cracker Barrel recipe. Rich broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings make this dish the ultimate comfort meal.

For the Broth

• 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: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered for about 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 2: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

While the chicken cooks, prepare the dumpling dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently stir in the milk until the dough comes together into a shaggy ball.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

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

Step 4: Remove Chicken

When chicken is fully cooked, remove from broth and set aside on a cutting board. Discard celery pieces and onion from the broth.

Step 5: Cook Dumplings

Drop dough strips carefully into the simmering broth, stirring gently. Simmer dumplings for approximately 20–30 minutes until cooked through and broth thickens to a gravy-like consistency.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

As dumplings cook, shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return chicken to pot, mixing gently to combine.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings!

How to Serve Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful dish that offers warmth and comfort. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steam broccoli to retain its bright color and nutrients for a fresh contrast.
• Roasted Carrots: Toss carrots in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender for a sweet side.

Add a Side Salad

• Garden Salad: Mix greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a tangy flavor, perfect for balancing the richness of the chicken and dumplings.

Serve with Bread

• Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits are ideal for sopping up the delicious gravy-like broth.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

To achieve the best results with your homemade chicken and dumplings, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Broth: Start with high-quality chicken broth for a rich, flavorful base that enhances the overall taste.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Gently mix the dumpling dough to keep them light and fluffy; overworking leads to tough dumplings.
• Cut Uniform Sizes: Ensure dumpling pieces are cut uniformly so they cook evenly throughout.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the dumplings to simmer slowly helps them absorb flavors while maintaining their texture.
• Season Gradually: Taste your dish as you go; adding salt and pepper gradually ensures balanced seasoning without overpowering flavors.

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

Complement your hearty chicken and dumplings with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that’s always a hit.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
3. Fried Apples: Sweet fried apples provide a deliciously sweet counterpart to the savory chicken dish.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings summer flavors to your table when in season.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like chicken and dumplings.
6. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in vinegar is refreshing and lightens up your plate nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly overcooking the chicken – If you leave the chicken in the broth too long, it can become dry. Cook just until fully done and remove promptly.
• Boldly neglecting seasoning – Under-seasoned dumplings can taste bland. Be sure to season the broth and dough well with salt and pepper for maximum flavor.
• Boldly rolling dough too thick – Dumplings should be fluffy, not dense. Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness for ideal texture.
• Boldly skipping the resting time – Allowing the dumpling dough to rest helps it rise better. Let it sit for a few minutes before cutting.
• Boldly ignoring broth quality – Using low-quality broth can affect flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Best used within 1–2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings:

What is Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings?

Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich broth with fluffy dumplings.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute turkey or even beef if desired. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make the dumplings fluffier?

To achieve fluffier dumplings, avoid overworking the dough and ensure you roll it out to the correct thickness.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate carrots or peas into your homemade chicken and dumplings for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty dish that feels like home!