Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re like me and have fond memories of family dinners, then you probably have a special place in your heart (and stomach) for homemade chicken and dumplings. The kind that reminds you of cozy gatherings and warms you up from the inside out. Well, let me tell you, I’m about to share my beloved version of Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings, which brings all those warm, fuzzy feelings right to your table!
I first tried chicken and dumplings at Cracker Barrel on one of our cherished family road trips. The aroma wafting through the restaurant made my mouth water before I even got a chance to sit down. When that bowl arrived—comforting, creamy, and packed to the brim—I wasn’t sure if I would ever stop smiling. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that incredible experience at home, and this recipe definitely delivers. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
What’s in Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings?
Chicken: The star of the dish! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor, but chicken breasts can work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
Chicken Broth: A rich and flavorful broth is essential for creating that delectable and comforting base. I usually go for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness!
Flour: We need this for the dumplings. All-purpose flour does the job well, and you can even buy the pre-mixed dumpling mixes if you want to simplify things.
Butter: Can you ever go wrong with butter? It adds that beautiful flavor to both the broth and the dumplings. My go-to is unsalted, so I can season to my taste.
Vegetables: I usually toss in some chopped celery, carrots, and onions. These add a nice crunch and freshness, plus a pop of color!
Milk: A splash of milk or cream makes the broth rich and luscious.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a dash of thyme bring everything together beautifully. Feel free to tweak this to match your palate!
Is Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings Good for You?
Now let’s chat about the health aspect, because I know balance is key. This cozy dish can be heartwarming and hearty, but with the right choices, it can be a bit healthier too.
Chicken: Packed with protein, chicken keeps you full and satisfied, while providing lean nutrition. Using skinless cuts reduces the fat content, making it an even better option!
Vegetables: The inclusion of carrots, celery, and onions not only adds fiber but also boosts your intake of vitamins and minerals. You can even add peas or green beans to up your vegetable game!
Butter and Milk: While these add delightful creaminess, it is wise to keep portions in check to manage calorie intake. If you’re aiming for a lighter recipe, consider swapping out some butter for olive oil or using a lower-fat milk option.
This dish can be a comforting favorite that delightfully nurtures the soul—while also allowing for some nutritious tweaks!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
– 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup of chopped celery
– 1/2 cup of chopped carrots
– 1/2 cup of chopped onions
– 1/2 cup of milk (or cream)
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
*Serves approximately 4*
How to Make Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings?
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Once cool, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. In the same pot, add the butter, onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the flour and cook for another couple of minutes until it’s lightly golden. This will thicken up the broth!
5. Pour in the milk, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine, then add the chicken back into the pot.
6. For the dumplings, in another bowl, mix 1 cup of flour with a pinch of salt and just enough water to form a sticky dough.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture into the simmering broth—no need for perfection here, they’ll puff up while cooking!
8. Cover the pot and let the dumplings steam for about 15 minutes—try not to lift the lid to get the best fluffiness!
9. Once done, give everything a gentle stir and season to taste.
10. Serve hot, and enjoy every spoonful of comfort!
Savory Secrets and Tips
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding herbs like parsley or rosemary for an extra aromatic touch!
– My mum used to sneak in some frozen peas towards the end, and I fully endorse that! It adds vibrant color and a pop of sweetness.
– This recipe is a great meal prep option—make it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to chow down. It only gets better with time!
– Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out your meal. A glass of sweet tea makes the ultimate southern experience!
So there you have it! This Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings recipe is not only good for the belly, but it’s also great for the soul. I really encourage you to try making it and let those comforting aromas fill your home. Trust me; your loved ones will appreciate the effort, and the smiles around the table will be worth it! Let me know how yours turns out—I can’t wait to hear! Happy cooking!
