Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings to make you feel cozy and satisfied. This beloved Southern comfort food, featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, has been a staple on the menu of Cracker Barrel restaurants for years. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to make at home. In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to recreate this hearty meal, share some tips and tricks to perfect your dumplings, and explore the health benefits of this classic comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to bring a taste of the South into your kitchen.

What Makes Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings So Special?

What sets Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings apart is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavor and loaded with comfort. The secret lies in the combination of slow-cooked chicken, which creates a deeply flavorful broth, and light, fluffy dumplings that soak up all the savory goodness. This meal is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner on a cold night or a special dish to serve at a family gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings at home, you’ll need:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning the broth)
• Water, as needed

These ingredients are staples in most kitchens, making this recipe both accessible and economical. Plus, using fresh, quality ingredients ensures that your dish will be bursting with flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preparing the Chicken

Start by placing your whole chicken in a large pot. Cover it with water, add a teaspoon of salt to season the broth, and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about an hour. This slow simmer is key to extracting all the flavors from the chicken, resulting in a rich and savory broth that’s perfect for soaking up with dumplings.

2. Making the Dumplings

While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to prepare your dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times. Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut it into strips or squares. The thickness of the dumplings is essential – too thick, and they’ll be doughy; too thin, and they’ll dissolve into the broth.

3. Shredding the Chicken

Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, remove it from the pot and allow it to cool slightly. This makes it easier to handle. Remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, distributing it evenly throughout the broth. This ensures every spoonful is filled with delicious chicken.

4. Cooking the Dumplings

Bring the broth back to a gentle boil and add the dumplings one at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. The dumplings will puff up as they cook, absorbing the rich, savory flavors of the broth. The key here is patience – let them simmer without disturbing too much to keep the dumplings intact and fluffy.

5. Final Seasoning and Serving

Finally, add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and adjust the seasoning with more salt if necessary. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, with a side of your favorite vegetables or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal. The result is a hearty, comforting dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings

• Choose the Right Chicken: Using a whole chicken gives the broth a deeper flavor, but you can also use chicken thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is tender.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When making dumplings, handle the dough as little as possible to keep them light and fluffy.
• Add a Touch of Cream: For an even richer broth, stir in a bit of heavy cream just before serving. This adds a luxurious texture to the dish.
• Vegetable Variations: Consider adding chopped carrots, celery, or peas to the broth for added flavor and nutrition.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

While Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort food, it’s also surprisingly nutritious. Chicken provides a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, while the broth is low in fat and rich in minerals. Dumplings, although a bit indulgent, offer carbohydrates that provide energy, making this dish a balanced meal option when enjoyed in moderation.

Nutrition Details

• Serving: 1 cup
• Calories: 340
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Vitamin A: 4% of the daily value
• Calcium: 6% of the daily value
• Iron: 10% of the daily value

FAQs

Conclusion

Making Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings at home is a great way to enjoy this beloved comfort food without having to visit a restaurant. With simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also full of nostalgic flavors. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you! Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this Southern classic, and share it with loved ones for a meal everyone will remember.

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