Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Introduction

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is a comforting Southern classic that combines tender chicken with fluffy homemade dumplings in a rich broth. This easy recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to your table, perfect for chilly evenings or family dinners.

Ingredients

• 2-3 cups cooked chicken breast, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk until the dough is smooth.
3. Step 3: Let the dough rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Step 4: On a generously floured board, roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness.
5. Step 5: Cut the dough into ½ inch squares using a pizza cutter, then drop the pieces into the simmering broth.
6. Step 6: Simmer the dumplings for about 25 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
7. Step 7: Add the cooked chicken breast to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use homemade or store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
• Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the broth for an extra layer of taste.
• If you prefer thicker dumplings, roll the dough slightly thicker before cutting.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the dumplings from becoming tough. This dish generally does not freeze well as dumplings may change texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to fully cook and shred the chicken before adding it to the dumplings. Thaw frozen chicken completely before use for the best results.

How can I tell when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings are cooked when they are puffed up and no longer doughy inside, usually after simmering for about 25 minutes. Stir gently to keep them from sticking to the bottom.

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 82 reviews

This Cracker Barrel-inspired Chicken and Dumplings recipe offers a comforting Southern classic featuring tender chicken breast simmered in a flavorful chicken broth with soft, fluffy dumplings made from scratch. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, this dish combines simple ingredients with a traditional cooking method to create a hearty and satisfying meal.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 2–3 cups cooked chicken breast, torn into bite-sized pieces
• 6 cups chicken broth

Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1. Heat the Broth: In a large pot, heat the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer to prepare the base for the dumplings.
2. Make the Dumpling Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir in the milk until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
3. Rest the Dough: Allow the dough to rest for 5 to 10 minutes, which helps relax the gluten for tender dumplings.
4. Roll and Cut Dough: On a generously floured board, roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into ½-inch squares.
5. Add Dumplings to Broth: Drop the dough squares carefully into the simmering broth, ensuring they don’t stick together.
6. Simmer Dumplings: Let the dumplings cook by simmering for about 25 minutes, stirring often to keep them from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking.
7. Add Chicken and Finish Cooking: Stir in the cooked chicken breast and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld together.

Notes

• Use leftover roasted or poached chicken breast for an easy shortcut.
• Keep the broth at a gentle simmer to avoid dumplings breaking apart.
• If dough is too sticky, add a little more flour when rolling.
• Serve hot with a side of green vegetables or cornbread for a complete meal.
• For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the broth.

Keywords: Chicken and Dumplings, Southern Comfort Food, Cracker Barrel, Homemade Dumplings, Chicken Broth, Easy Chicken Recipe