Comforting Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of cracker barrel chicken and dumplings. Imagine tender, juicy chicken mingling with fluffy dumplings, all nestled in a rich, savory broth that beckons you to take another spoonful. Just the smell alone transports you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and warmth.

I remember the first time I tried this dish; it was during a family gathering where everyone was gathered around the table, sharing stories and enjoying delicious food. The moment I tasted those dumplings, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me, reminding me of my grandmother’s cooking. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little comfort food magic in your life.

I once made this for friends who were skeptical about homemade dumplings—they ended up begging for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your hungry crowd.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness and flavor depth.

• Dumpling Mix: You can make your own or use store-bought; both options yield yummy results.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter to enhance flavor without making it overly salty.

• Onions: Fresh onions add sweetness; sauté until translucent for the best flavor.

• Seasonings (Salt and Pepper): Essential for enhancing all the flavors; don’t skimp on these!

• Milk: A splash gives the dumplings extra fluffiness; use whole milk or buttermilk for richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Chicken: Start by bringing your chicken broth to a gentle simmer in a large pot. While it heats up, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper for added flavor.

Add Chicken to Broth: Once simmering, lower the seasoned chicken into the broth. Cook until fully cooked through—this should take about 20-25 minutes—then remove and shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Sauté Onions in Butter: In the same pot, melt some butter over medium heat. Toss in diced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and fragrant—about 5 minutes.

Create Dumpling Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, milk, and melted butter until smooth. This will be your fluffy dumpling mix that will float atop the delicious broth.

Add Chicken Back to Pot: Return the shredded chicken to the pot along with any juices from resting. Stir well to combine all those wonderful flavors together before adding your dumpling mixture on top.

Cook Dumplings in Broth: Gently drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mix into the simmering broth. Cover and let steam for about 15 minutes until they’ve puffed up beautifully.

And there you have it! A steaming bowl of cracker barrel chicken and dumplings ready to warm your heart!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then simmer in broth while preparing the dumplings. This sequence ensures juicy chicken and fluffy dumplings.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding vegetables like carrots or peas for extra color and nutrition. You can also swap herbs to match your personal taste for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

One time, I made this dish for friends who claimed they didn’t like dumplings. They ended up begging for seconds—proof that comfort food can convert even the toughest critics!

FAQ

What type of chicken should I use for cracker barrel chicken and dumplings?

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Can I make cracker barrel chicken and dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything but add dumplings just before serving.

How do I prevent my dumplings from becoming too dense?

Avoid overmixing; mix just until ingredients are combined to keep them light and fluffy.

Print

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth. This heartwarming dish evokes nostalgia with every bite, making it perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for gatherings, this recipe invites you to customize it with your favorite veggies for added flavor and nutrition. Get ready to serve a bowl of warmth that will delight everyone at your table!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup diced onions (about 1 medium onion)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a gentle simmer. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Add the seasoned chicken to the simmering broth and cook for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté diced onions until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
4. In a separate bowl, mix dumpling ingredients: combine flour, baking powder, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
5. Return shredded chicken to the pot along with any juices and stir well. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture into the simmering broth and cover for about 15 minutes until puffed up.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. Swap herbs to match personal taste. For fluffier dumplings, avoid overmixing; just combine until wet.