Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

There’s something truly special about the warmth and comfort of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. This dish takes me back to chilly winter evenings spent gathered around the table with family, sharing laughter and stories over a hearty meal. Growing up, my grandmother would make this classic dish, filling the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that wrapped around us like a cozy blanket. Now, I get to recreate those memories in my own home, and let me tell you, nothing beats the joy of enjoying a steaming bowl of tender dumplings and savory chicken after a long day. While some may think that Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings can only be enjoyed at a restaurant, I’m here to show you how easy it is to bring this comfort food classic right into your kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and some love, you can create a dish that warms your heart and satisfies your soul.

Recipe Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

The ingredients for Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings are simple yet effective, working in harmony to create a comforting dish. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, and together they transform into a warm, nourishing meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter – Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup diced carrots – For sweetness and color.
• 1/2 cup diced celery – Contributes freshness and crunch.
• 1/2 cup diced white onion – Provides a savory foundation for the broth.
• 1 teaspoon salt (divided use) – Enhances all the flavors.
• 6 cups water – Forms the base of the comforting broth.
• 6 teaspoons chicken base – Infuses the broth with rich chicken flavor.
• 1 pound chicken tenders – The star protein of the dish.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the dough for the dumplings.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Provides lift to the dumplings.
• 1 cup buttermilk – Adds tang and moisture to the dumpling dough.

Making Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Cooking Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting dish.

1. Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. As it melts, let the rich, buttery aroma fill the air. Once melted, add the carrots, celery, and onions to the pot along with half a teaspoon of the salt. Stir occasionally and cook until the onions become translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.

2. Next, pour in the water and add the chicken base to the pot. Stir well until the chicken base is fully incorporated into the water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer before adding the chicken tenders. Cook these for approximately 20 minutes over medium-low heat, ensuring the chicken is tender and cooked through.

3. While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, the remaining half teaspoon of salt, and buttermilk. Mix until the dough just comes together; it should be shaggy and slightly sticky. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dumplings tough.

4. Flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Roll it out into a rectangle about a quarter inch thick. With a sharp knife or a dough cutter, cut the dough into 1-inch squares, ensuring they don’t touch one another. Dust them lightly with more flour to prevent sticking.

5. Now, strain the chicken and vegetables from the broth, returning the broth to the pot. Bring the broth to a rolling boil before slowly adding the dumplings, a few at a time. Stir gently as you add them to ensure they don’t stick together.

6. Once all the dumplings are in, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the dumplings to cook through while soaking up all the delicious flavors from the broth.

7. Finally, taste the broth and adjust the seasonings as needed. Maybe a pinch more salt or some fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Serve the Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this comforting dish with your family!

Make It Your Own

Every cook has their own flair, and Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is no exception. Here are some tips to help you customize this recipe to suit your tastes.

• Add herbs: Consider stirring in some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley at the end for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegetable variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Serving options: Pair with a side salad or cornbread to make it a full meal.
• Leftover magic: Use any leftovers to create a creamy casserole by mixing with cheese and baking until golden.

Best Served With

Serving Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings can be a delightful experience that elevates the comfort of this dish. Here are some suggestions on how to make your meal even better:

• Side Salads: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the dumplings, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables can complement the dish wonderfully, adding color and nutrients to your table.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or fresh rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
• Cornbread: This classic Southern side is a perfect match for the creamy broth of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings.
• Dinner Parties: This dish is an excellent choice for gatherings, offering a hearty meal that everyone loves.
• Lunch or Brunch: It’s also suitable for a comforting lunch or brunch, providing a satisfying meal any time of day.

FAQ

Conclusion

The beauty of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings lies in its heartwarming flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s a dish that brings people together, evoking cherished memories around the dinner table. I encourage you to try making this comforting classic in your own kitchen. You won’t just be serving a meal; you’ll be sharing warmth and love with every bite.

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

The ultimate comfort food, Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is a creamy, hearty dish that you can easily make at home. Perfect for chilly days, this recipe delivers warm, tender dumplings and savory chicken in a rich broth. It's an easy weeknight dinner that will surely satisfy your cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons Salted Butter
• 1/2 cup Diced Carrots
• 1/2 cup Diced Celery
• 1/2 cup Diced White Onion
• 1 teaspoon Salt (divided use)
• 6 cups Water
• 6 teaspoons Chicken Base
• 1 pound Chicken Tenders
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 1 cup Buttermilk

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. As it melts, let the rich, buttery aroma fill the air. Once melted, add the carrots, celery, and onions to the pot along with half a teaspoon of the salt. Stir occasionally and cook until the onions become translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
2. Next, pour in the water and add the chicken base to the pot. Stir well until the chicken base is fully incorporated into the water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer before adding the chicken tenders. Cook these for approximately 20 minutes over medium-low heat, ensuring the chicken is tender and cooked through.
3. While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, the remaining half teaspoon of salt, and buttermilk. Mix until the dough just comes together; it should be shaggy and slightly sticky. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dumplings tough.
4. Flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Roll it out into a rectangle about a quarter inch thick. With a sharp knife or a dough cutter, cut the dough into 1-inch squares, ensuring they don’t touch one another. Dust them lightly with more flour to prevent sticking.
5. Now, strain the chicken and vegetables from the broth, returning the broth to the pot. Bring the broth to a rolling boil before slowly adding the dumplings, a few at a time. Stir gently as you add them to ensure they don’t stick together.
6. Once all the dumplings are in, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the dumplings to cook through while soaking up all the delicious flavors from the broth.
7. Finally, taste the broth and adjust the seasonings as needed. Maybe a pinch more salt or some fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Serve the Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this comforting dish with your family!

Notes

• Don’t overmix the dumpling dough: This can make them tough instead of tender. Mix just until combined.
• Maintain a gentle simmer: Boiling too vigorously can break apart the dumplings, leading to an undesirable texture.
• Allow resting time: Let the finished dish sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dumplings to firm up.
• Season gradually: It’s easier to add more salt at the end than to fix an overly salty dish. Taste as you go!

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.