Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Enjoy comforting, Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings, perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. This dish combines a rich broth with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, making it an ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to warm up on a chilly day, this recipe stands out for its easy preparation and heartwarming flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip up this classic meal in under an hour.
• Rich Flavor: The savory broth combined with tender chicken creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course for family meals or cozy dinners with friends.
• Comforting Texture: Fluffy dumplings soak up the flavorful broth, delivering comfort in every bite.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your homemade chicken and dumplings, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

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 chicken evenly.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect for mixing the dumpling dough without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough to achieve that perfect thickness for fluffy dumplings.

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: 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 and 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 the milk until the dough comes together into a shaggy ball.

Step 3: Shape the Dumplings

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

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once cooked:
1. Remove chicken from the 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 the simmering broth while stirring gently:
1. Simmer dumplings for approximately 20–30 minutes.
2. Stir occasionally until dumplings are cooked through and broth thickens to a gravy-like consistency.

Step 6: Shred Chicken

As dumplings cook:
1. Shred or chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Return shredded chicken to the pot, mixing gently to combine.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Finally:
1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious homemade cracker barrel-style chicken and dumplings!

How to Serve Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Serving your Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is an enjoyable experience that can enhance the meal even further. Here are some great ideas to present this comforting dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs – A few sprigs of thyme can elevate the aroma, making your dish more inviting.

Accompanied by Biscuits

• Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits – Serve alongside warm, flaky biscuits for soaking up the rich broth.
• Cheddar Bay Biscuits – These cheesy biscuits add a delightful twist to the meal.

Served with Green Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – A side of steamed broccoli adds nutrition and balances the flavors.
• Sautéed Green Beans – Toss green beans in olive oil, garlic, and salt for a vibrant addition.

As a Comfort Meal

• In a Deep Bowl – Serve in deep bowls for a cozy, rustic feel; perfect for family gatherings or chilly evenings.

How to Perfect Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

To achieve the best version of this beloved dish, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Broth – Start with homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for richer flavor.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough – Mix your dumpling dough just until combined to ensure they stay fluffy when cooked.
• Adjust Cooking Time – Keep an eye on dumplings while they cook; undercooked dumplings can be doughy, while overcooked ones may fall apart.
• Taste as You Go – Adjust seasoning throughout cooking; saltiness can vary based on broth used.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes enhances flavors and makes serving easier.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic complement the dish beautifully.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the dumplings.
3. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
4. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots add color and nutrition while enhancing the overall meal.
5. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad brings lightness and coolness to each bite.
6. Baked Apples – For dessert, baked apples provide a sweet finish that pairs well with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry and tough. Always check for doneness at 15 minutes to ensure it’s tender and juicy.
• Ignoring the dumpling thickness: Dumplings that are too thick won’t cook properly, while those that are too thin may dissolve in the broth. Aim for a consistent ¼-inch thickness when rolling out your dough.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste your broth before adding salt and pepper; you might find it’s already flavorful enough. Adjusting seasonings at the end can prevent an overly salty dish.
• Not letting the broth simmer long enough: For a rich flavor and thicker consistency, let your broth simmer with the dumplings for the recommended time. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Using cold milk: Cold milk can affect how well your dumpling dough comes together. Use room temperature milk for better mixing and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating for best results.

Freezing Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for about 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can use turkey or beef instead of chicken if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What should I serve with chicken and dumplings?

This dish pairs well with green salads, steamed vegetables, or cornbread for a complete meal.

How do I store leftover homemade chicken and dumplings?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make dumplings without baking powder?

While baking powder gives dumplings their fluffiness, you can try using self-rising flour as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful comfort food that warms both body and soul. This dish is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like carrots or peas. Try making it today and enjoy a warm bowl of nostalgia!