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The Ultimate Guide to Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

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Learn how to make the iconic Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings at home with this detailed recipe guide. Perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings, this comfort food classic is easier to prepare than you think.

Why is Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings So Popular?

Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings have earned a loyal fanbase thanks to their creamy texture, hearty chicken, and soft dumplings. The dish is a staple at Cracker Barrel restaurants and is beloved for its homemade feel and comforting taste.

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Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

To replicate the iconic dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Broth

  • 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
  • 8 cups of water (or chicken stock)
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 3/4 cup of milk
  • 4 tablespoons of butter, melted

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped parsley
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Broth

  1. Place the chicken in a large pot and cover with water or chicken stock.
  2. Add onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender.
  4. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Strain the broth and set it aside.

2. Make the Dumplings

  1. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Stir in the milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms.
  3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  4. Cut into 2-inch squares or strips.

3. Assemble the Dish

  1. Bring the strained broth to a gentle boil.
  2. Drop the dumplings into the broth one at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
  3. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
  4. Shred the cooked chicken and add it to the pot.
  5. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings into bowls and garnish with parsley or black pepper if desired.

Variations and Additions

1. Creamy Chicken and Dumplings

  • Add 1/2 cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk to the broth for a creamier texture.
  • Stir in a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.

2. Vegetable-Loaded Dumplings

  • Add frozen peas, diced potatoes, or sliced mushrooms to the broth.
  • Cook the vegetables along with the dumplings for a hearty twist.

3. Spicy Chicken and Dumplings

  • Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the broth.
  • Garnish with chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.

4. Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings

  • Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dumplings.
  • Ensure the broth ingredients are gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

This comforting dish is rich in flavor and nutrients:

Per Serving (based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 780mg

Tips for Perfect Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

  • Use Homemade Broth: The flavor of homemade broth is unmatched and adds depth to the dish.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-kneading can make the dumplings tough instead of tender.
  • Taste and Adjust: Always taste the broth before adding the dumplings and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Simmer Gently: Dumplings can break apart if the broth is boiling too vigorously.
  • Plan Ahead: Make the broth a day ahead for a richer flavor and faster assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cracker Barrel dumplings made of?

Cracker Barrel dumplings are made from a simple dough of flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and butter. The dough is rolled out and cut into pieces before being cooked in broth.

Does Cracker Barrel have chicken dumplings?

Yes, Cracker Barrel serves chicken and dumplings as a classic comfort food dish on their menu.

What are dumplings made of in chicken and dumplings?

Dumplings are typically made of flour, a leavening agent like baking powder, salt, and a liquid such as milk or water. Some recipes also include butter or shortening for added richness.

How do you keep biscuit dumplings from falling apart?

To keep dumplings from falling apart, avoid overmixing the dough and handle it gently when cutting and adding to the broth. Ensure the broth is simmering, not boiling, to maintain the dumplings’ structure.

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