Introduction to Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to the ultimate comfort food, few dishes can compete with the heartwarming goodness of chicken and dumplings. This dish marries tender, shredded chicken with fluffy dumplings, all swimming in a savory broth that warms you from the inside out. It’s a meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also envelops you in a nostalgic embrace, making it perfect for cozy nights in or when you need a little TLC after a long day.
The beauty of this Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe is its simplicity and flavor. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip it up; it combines everyday ingredients to create something truly special. Do you remember gathering around the table with family, sharing stories and laughter over a hearty meal? This recipe brings back those cherished moments, reminding us of the warmth and love that good food brings.
Plus, chicken and dumplings are wonderfully versatile. You can easily adapt this recipe using pre-cooked chicken or even throw in some vegetables to suit your taste. If you're craving the classic Cracker Barrel taste without leaving your home, you've come to the right place!
For more tips on comfort food that warms the soul, check out this guide on the benefits of homemade meals.
Ingredients for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to recreating the comfort food classic, Cracker Barrel’s chicken and dumplings, having the right ingredients is essential. Here’s what you need to gather before you start your culinary adventure.
Essential Ingredients List
- 6 cups chicken broth – A rich base that adds depth of flavor.
- 2 ribs of celery (broken in half) – For aromatic goodness.
- ½ medium onion (kept as a chunk) – Adds flavor without the hassle of chopping finely.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star ingredient, perfectly tender.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – Essential for the dumplings’ texture.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – For that delightful rise.
- 1 ¼ teaspoon salt – To season the dish.
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoon milk – Helps create a soft dumpling dough.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for that final touch of flavor.
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
- Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley – Sprinkle these in for an extra burst of freshness.
- Garlic powder or onion powder – Enhance the flavors with a touch of seasoning.
- Carrots or peas – Add some color and nutrition to your dish.
Experimenting with these optional ingredients can elevate your Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings to your personal favorite! Have fun with it; cooking is all about making it your own. For more inspiration, check out Taste of Home for ideas and variations.
Preparing Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Craving that home-style comfort from Cracker Barrel but can’t get to one? No worries! This guide will walk you through each step to create your own Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings right in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for friends or just treating yourself, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Before you dive into cooking, having everything ready can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 cups chicken broth: This is the base of your dish.
- 2 ribs of celery: Break them in half for flavor.
- ½ medium onion: Keep it whole for easy removal later.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut each breast in half to expedite cooking.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Essential for your dumpling dough.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: To give your dumplings that lovely rise.
- 1 ¼ teaspoon salt: Trust us, it makes a difference in flavor.
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoon milk: This will help bind your dumplings.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always essential for that extra flavor boost.
Cook the Chicken
In a stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts. You’ll want to bring this mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook thoroughly and infuses your broth with delicious flavor. As the chicken cooks, take this time to prepare the dumplings!
Make the Dumpling Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Then, slowly stir in the milk just until you form a shaggy dough. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy—that's what makes homemade dumplings so charming!
Cut and Roll the Dumplings
Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the dough. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness, then grab a pizza cutter and slice it into strips or squares, roughly 1 to 2 inches in size. This is where the fun begins—get creative with your dumpling shapes!
Combine and Simmer
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it along with the onion and celery. Discard those since they’ve done their job! Next, drop your dumpling strips into the simmering broth and let it bubble away for 20-30 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally, allowing the broth to thicken to a rich, gravy-like consistency.
Final Touches with Chicken
While the dumplings are cooking, shred or chop the cooked chicken and return it to the pot. Add salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust for your unique preference—everybody loves a little customization! Serve warm, and enjoy the delicious smell filling your kitchen.
If you’re curious about other variations or tips, check out The Kitchn for more inspiration! Enjoy your delicious homemade Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings!
Variations on Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Herb-Infused Dumplings
For a twist on the classic Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings, consider adding fresh herbs to your dumpling dough. Chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley can elevate the flavor, giving them an aromatic touch that pairs perfectly with the rich broth. Simply mix in about one tablespoon of your herb of choice into the dry ingredients before adding the milk.
Creamy Chicken and Dumplings
Want your Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings to have an extra creamy consistency? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream in the last few minutes of cooking. This will enhance the richness of the broth, making every spoonful feel indulgent. Pair it with some crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Explore more variations at sites like Taste of Home or All Recipes!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Importance of Broth Quality
When making Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings, the quality of your broth makes all the difference. Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth to control the flavor, allowing it to shine without overwhelming the dish. If you have time, homemade broth will elevate your dumplings to comfort food nirvana. It truly enhances the overall dish, providing depth and richness.
Adjusting Consistency: Tips for Thicker or Thinner Broth
Consistency is key in achieving the perfect Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. If you prefer a thicker broth, allow it to simmer longer, which reduces and concentrates the flavors. You can also whisk in a slurry of flour and water to thicken it quickly. For a thinner broth, simply add more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about finding that perfect balance for your taste!
By keeping these tips and notes in mind, you'll delight in a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Serving Suggestions for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Perfect Accompaniments
Pair your Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings with classic Southern sides for a hearty meal. Consider serving:
- Collard Greens: Their slight bitterness balances the rich flavors beautifully.
- Cornbread: This sweet and savory option is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Green Beans: Fresh or sautéed, they add a delightful crunch and color to your plate.
Ideal Serving Temperature and Presentation
Serve your dumplings warm in shallow bowls to showcase the hearty broth and fluffy dumplings. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra touch. For the best experience, enjoy this dish hot—it's the ultimate comfort food on a chilly evening. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!
Time Breakdown for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Preparation Time
Getting started on this Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need approximately 5 minutes for preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients and prepping the chicken and dumpling dough.
Cooking Time
Once you’ve prepped, the cooking phase takes about 35 minutes. During this time, you’ll boil the chicken in broth and allow the dumplings to soften and thicken the dish to perfection.
Total Time
In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve! Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend dish, this recipe fits perfectly into your schedule.
If you’re interested in exploring more comfort food options, check out this resource for additional tasty inspirations.
Nutritional Facts for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
When enjoying a bowl of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings, it's good to know what you're savoring! Each generous serving contains approximately 418 calories. This dish is not only comforting but packs a protein punch with 34g of protein per serving. However, keep an eye on sodium levels—each serving provides 1778mg of sodium, which may be higher than recommended daily values for some.
Calories Per Serving
- Each serving has 418 calories, making it a hearty meal to keep you energized.
Protein Content
- Boasting 34g of protein, this dish is perfect for those wanting to feel satisfied for longer.
Sodium Information
- With 1778mg of sodium, consider adjusting salt in the recipe or serving it alongside fresh veggies or a side salad to balance your meal.
For more information about maintaining a balanced diet, check out resources from the American Heart Association and ChooseMyPlate.gov. Whether you're enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving guests at your dinner table, Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings promises comfort with every bite!
FAQs about Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to save time and reduce waste. If you have some precooked chicken handy, just toss it in during the last five minutes of cooking. This ensures it warms up without becoming overcooked, keeping the dish delicious and tender.
What if I want gluten-free dumplings?
No problem! You can easily make gluten-free dumplings by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just check that your baking powder is also gluten-free. Another option is using almond flour or coconut flour, though those may require tweaks to the amount of liquid.
How do I store leftover chicken and dumplings?
To keep your Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. When reheating, be sure to add a splash of chicken broth to maintain the dish's moisture and flavor.
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this collection.
Conclusion on Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
In conclusion, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a delightful way to bring the warmth of your favorite restaurant right into your home. With its hearty flavors and comforting texture, it's perfect for cozy evenings. Don't hesitate to customize this dish to suit your family's tastes — enjoy!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Equipment
- stockpot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 ribs celery, broken in half
- ½ medium onion kept as a chunk
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts each breast cut in half
Dumplings
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoon milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a stockpot or Dutch oven, add broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, for about 15 minutes, until the chicken breast is cooked through. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk just until combined into a shaggy dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips or squares about 1 to 2 inches in size.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it to a cutting board. Remove the onion chunk and celery pieces and discard.
- Add the dough strips to the simmering broth and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the dumplings to cook and the broth to thicken to a gravy-like consistency.
- While the dumplings are simmering, shred or chop chicken and return to the pot.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
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