Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings
A comforting homemade version of Cracker Barrel's famous chicken and dumplings, featuring tender chicken in a rich, velvety broth with perfectly fluffy dumplings.This easy-to-follow recipe captures the nostalgic flavors and textures of the beloved restaurant dish, allowing you to enjoy a bowl of Southern comfort food any time at home.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For the dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup shortening or lard
- 3/4 cup warm water
For the broth:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Make the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Add the thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Make the dumplings: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Cut in the shortening or lard until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Roll out the dumplings: Roll out the dumpling dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut into strips or squares, about 1 inch wide and 2-3 inches long.
- Add the dumplings to the pot: Bring the chicken broth to a boil, then add the dumplings to the pot. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and have risen to the surface.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Tips and Variations:
- Use a slow cooker: Cook the chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high.
- Add some veggies: Add some diced veggies, such as carrots or celery, to the pot for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of chicken: Use different types of chicken, such as bone-in chicken or chicken wings, for a unique flavor and texture.
- Add some cream: Add some heavy cream or half-and-half to the broth for a richer and creamier flavor.
- Spicy Chicken And Dumplings: Add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the pot for an extra kick of heat.
- Italian-Style Chicken And Dumplings: Add some diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning to the pot for a unique flavor.
- Veggie Chicken And Dumplings: Add some diced veggies, such as bell peppers or onions, to the pot for added flavor and nutrition.