Introduction to Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to comfort food, nothing hits the spot like the copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings. This beloved dish features tender chicken simmered to perfection and fluffy dumplings served in a creamy broth. It's a meal that brings back cozy memories of family gatherings and shared laughter at the dinner table.
What makes Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings so irresistible?
Several factors contribute to the irresistible charm of this dish:
- Creamy, Flavorful Broth: The combination of chicken stock, milk, and aromatic vegetables creates a rich broth that envelopes each bite.
- Fluffy Dumplings: Light and airy, the dumplings soak up the broth, adding a delightful texture that makes every spoonful satisfying.
- Tender Chicken: The slow-simmered chicken adds protein and heartiness, making this dish a complete meal.
By making this copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe at home, you can enjoy all the flavors you love without leaving your kitchen. Forget takeout and follow along as we transform your cooking experience into a comforting journey. Want to dive in? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
When it comes to recreating the cozy comfort of Cracker Barrel's chicken and dumplings, having the right ingredients is key. Let’s break it down into two essential categories: the broth and the dumplings themselves.
Essential Ingredients for the Broth
For a rich, savory base that mimics the restaurant experience, gather these ingredients:
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken stock: This will be your flavorful foundation.
- 1 cube chicken bouillon: Adds a punch of chicken flavor.
- 2 stalks celery, diced: For that refreshing crunch.
- 3 carrots, diced: Sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- 1 onion, peeled but left whole: It infuses flavor without the pieces getting in the way.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender chicken is the star of this dish.
- 2 cups milk: For a creamy finish that enhances the broth's richness.
Ingredients for the Dumplings
The dumplings are the heart of this dish! Here's what you need:
- 3 cups flour: More for dusting to prevent sticking.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Essential for fluffiness.
- 2 teaspoons salt: To elevate the flavor.
- 1 ⅓ cup buttermilk: Creates a tender, moist dumpling.
These ingredients will help you whip up a hearty meal that's sure to become a beloved staple at your dining table. Ready to make your copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings? Let's dive into the instructions!
Step-by-step Preparation of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Making copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings at home is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to recreate that comforting dish, perfect for a cozy dinner. Let’s dive in!
Gather and prep your ingredients
Start by collecting everything you need. Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials:
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 1 whole onion (peeled, but leave it whole for flavor)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups milk
For the dumplings:
- 3 cups flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 ⅓ cups buttermilk
Once you have your ingredients, take a few moments to wash and chop the vegetables. Preparing everything beforehand makes the cooking process a breeze!
Cook the chicken and veggies
In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine your chicken stock, bouillon cube, chicken breasts, carrots, celery, and whole onion. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and infuse the broth with flavor.
Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to cool before shredding. Discard the onion, as it has done its job of building flavor!
Prepare the dumpling dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually whisk in the buttermilk until a dough forms. Remember, if it seems too dry, add a little more buttermilk; too wet? Just sprinkle in some more flour. Once the dough comes together, dust it heavily with more flour to keep it from sticking.
Form the dumplings
Roll the dough out on a floured surface until it’s thin. Slice it into squares or rectangles—no need for perfection here. They’ll still taste amazing!
Combine chicken, dumplings, and broth
Once the dumplings are ready, return the pot to medium heat and add them to the simmering broth. Gently stir to prevent them from sticking together. Cover the pot and let everything cook for another 20 minutes.
During this time, shred your chicken and get it ready to add back in.
Let it simmer to perfection
After the dumplings are tender and fluffy, stir in the shredded chicken and the 2 cups of milk. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This step helps everything meld into a rich, comforting dish that’ll impress your family and friends.
By following these steps, you can create your very own, delicious copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings right in your kitchen! It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and hearty. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Variations on Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Dumplings
Elevate your copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings by adding mushrooms for an earthy twist. Simply sauté sliced cremini or button mushrooms in butter before mixing them into the broth. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds a wonderful texture, making every bite a delight. You might even want to swap the milk for a splash of cream to make it extra decadent.
Herb-Infused Dumplings
For a fresh, aromatic touch, try incorporating fresh herbs into your dumplings. Chopped parsley, thyme, or even rosemary can transform the classic recipe into something special. Just mix a tablespoon of your chosen herbs into the dough; it'll breathe new life into your copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings, making each mouthful more vibrant. This delightful twist not only tastes amazing but is an easy way to personalize your dish.
Feel free to experiment with these variations, adapting them to your taste preferences while still enjoying that classic comfort of homemade chicken and dumplings! For more ideas, check out Serious Eats for creative recipe inspiration.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Importance of Low-Sodium Chicken Stock
Using low-sodium chicken stock in your copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings is essential for controlling the salt content in your dish. This allows you to customize the flavor without overwhelming it with sodium. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but it's tough to balance an overly salty broth! Look for stocks with less than 140 mg of sodium per serving as a good guideline.
Tips for Achieving Fluffy Dumplings
For the fluffiest dumplings, avoid overmixing your dough. Mix until just combined; this keeps the texture light. When rolling out the dough, generously dust your surface with flour to prevent sticking. If they're too wet, sprinkle in more flour; if too dry, a splash of buttermilk does the trick. Lastly, avoid boiling them too long—let them simmer gently to ensure they are cooked through while remaining tender. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Perfect Side Dishes to Complement Your Meal
To elevate your copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings experience, consider serving it with a few delightful side dishes. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dumplings beautifully. For something heartier, baked cornbread adds a comforting touch while soaking up every last drop of that creamy broth. Want to switch it up? Roasted seasonal vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes can also be fantastic options!
Best Ways to Garnish Before Serving
When it comes to garnishing, fresh herbs can make a big difference! Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme over your chicken and dumplings for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of olive oil or even a dash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor profile. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding crispy turkey bacon bits on top for a savory crunch. Serve your dish in a rustic bowl for that authentic diner feel!
For more serving ideas, check out this resource for creative suggestions!
Time Breakdown for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Preparation time
Getting ready for your copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings is a breeze! You'll need about 30 minutes to gather ingredients, chop vegetables, and prepare your chicken. This step is all about setting yourself up for success.
Cooking time
Once you're prepped, the actual cooking takes around 45 minutes. This includes simmering the chicken and stock, mixing and rolling out the dumplings, and bringing everything together for that wonderfully creamy broth.
Total time
In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to enjoying your delicious meal. It's a relatively quick process that rewards you with heartwarming, homemade comfort food that will impress your family!
Ready to dive into this delightful dish? Check out the full recipe to get started!
Nutritional Facts for Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Calories
This comforting dish serves up approximately 534 calories per serving, making it a hearty choice for a fulfilling meal.
Protein
Packed with around 36 grams of protein, the copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings is not only satisfying but also a great source to fuel your active lifestyle.
Sodium
With about 1444 milligrams of sodium, it’s a good idea to pair the chicken and dumplings with a side of fresh vegetables to balance your meal's nutrition. Be mindful of this if you're watching your sodium intake.
For more in-depth nutritional tips, check out Healthline’s nutrition guide.
FAQs about Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds rich flavor to your copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings. Simply shred the chicken from a store-bought rotisserie and add it to the pot after the dumplings have cooked. This method infuses your broth with delicious, seasoned chicken and cuts down on prep time.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! If buttermilk isn't on hand, you can make a simple substitute. Just add one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of regular milk and let it sit for five minutes before mixing it into your dumpling dough. This mimics the tangy flavor of buttermilk, keeping your dumplings light and fluffy.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings. Just be sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. To enjoy later, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy texture.
Conclusion on Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Making copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings at home is a breeze and brings the comforting taste of this classic dish right to your kitchen. Enjoy the flavors of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings with family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and savor the delightful experience!
For more comfort food recipes, check out The Kitchn or BBC Good Food.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings: Bring the Restaurant Home
Equipment
- large pot
- mixing bowl
- rolling pin
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 8 cups chicken stock low-sodium
- 1 cube chicken bouillon
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 3 pieces carrots diced
- 1 piece onion peeled but left whole
- 1 pound chicken breasts boneless skinless
- 2 cups milk
Dumplings
- 3 cups flour more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 ⅓ cups buttermilk
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Add your stock, bouillon, chicken breast, onion, carrots, and celery to a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and set aside. Discard the onion.
- Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and buttermilk in a large bowl. Stir until a dough forms.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more buttermilk; if it is too wet, add a little more flour.
- Once the dough comes together, dust it heavily with more flour.
- Roll the dough out thinly and slice it into squares.
- Add the dumplings to the simmering stock, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- Cover and let the dumplings cook for another 20 minutes to let the stock thicken.
- Meanwhile, shred your chicken.
- Once the dumplings are done, return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
- Stir in the milk, then turn the heat off and let the chicken and dumplings sit for 5 minutes before serving.
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