There’s just something about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings that feels like a big hug on a chilly day. When I think of comfort food, my mind immediately drifts to the rich, velvety broth and tender dumplings, reminiscent of family gatherings and cozy evenings. One of my all-time favorite places to indulge in this classic dish is Cracker Barrel. Their Homemade Chicken & Dumplings are the perfect blend of nostalgia and flavor, bringing back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of chicken simmering would fill the house for hours. Today, I’m excited to share a version that brings that warmth and joy right to your own dining table!
I first learned how to make chicken and dumplings during a family cooking session when I was just a teenager. It was messy (I may have floured the floor more than the dough) but so much fun! Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to suit my own taste, but the essence remains—the perfect combination of tenderness, richness, and delight.
What’s in Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings?
Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this dish so irresistibly good!
Chicken: I love using bone-in chicken thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful during cooking. You can also use a rotisserie chicken to save time if you’re in a rush!
Chicken Broth: This forms the base of the amazing sauce. Homemade is always best, but a good-quality store-bought broth works wonders too. I’m a fan of low-sodium options so I can control the saltiness.
Butter: A touch of butter adds richness and flavor to the broth. Don’t skip it; it makes all the difference!
Flour: This is essential for thickening the gravy and for the dumplings. I like to use all-purpose flour, but you can experiment with alternatives if needed.
Milk: A splash of milk makes the dumplings fluffy and tender. It’s an often-overlooked ingredient, but trust me, it elevates the texture!
Baking Powder: This is the leavening agent for the dumplings. Make sure it’s fresh so your dumplings rise beautifully.
Seasonings: Simple but effective—salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder and onion powder for a flavor boost.
Is Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings Good for You?
Ah, the question we all ask when we dive into comfort food! While this dish is certainly rich and indulgent, it does hold some health benefits.
Chicken: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, chicken is a fantastic lean meat choice.
Flour: While it’s a staple in the recipe, moderation is key. You can swap in whole wheat flour for a bit more fiber, but it may change the texture of your dumplings.
Butter and Milk: They add creaminess, but using them sparingly can help keep the dish at a heart-healthy level.
So, while it’s best enjoyed in moderation, there’s no denying the comforting warmth and satisfaction this dish brings!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin on)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
**Servings:** This recipe usually serves about 4 – perfect for a family gathering or meal prep for the week!
How to Make Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings?
1. **Cook the Chicken:** In a large pot, add the chicken thighs and enough chicken broth to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
2. **Shred the Chicken:** Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
3. **Make the Broth:** Add the butter to the pot and stir until melted. Taste the broth and season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to your liking. Bring to a simmer once more.
4. **Prepare the Dumplings:** In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the milk and stir until just combined.
5. **Form the Dumplings:** Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the dumpling batter into the simmering broth. Don’t worry about making them perfect; rustic is the way to go!
6. **Cook the Dumplings:** Cover the pot tightly and let the dumplings steam for about 15-20 minutes until they are fluffy and cooked through. Avoid lifting the lid too much to keep the steam in.
7. **Serve Warm:** Ladle your chicken and dumplings into bowls and enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness.
Flavorful Tips and Serving Suggestions
– **Dumpling Variations:** Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the dumpling batter for an extra pop of flavor!
– **Accompaniments:** Serve this dish with a side of green beans or a simple salad to balance out the richness.
– **Leftovers:** Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens up.
Now that you’re all set with this delightful recipe, I can’t wait for you to try it! There’s something magical about cooking comfort food that fills not just your belly, but also your heart. When you take that first spoonful, let me know how it goes, and feel free to add your own twist! Happy cooking!
