Indulgent Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the food lover and creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m excited to share my Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings recipe. This dish is a comforting classic that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and brings everyone to the table.

Cooking is a joy for me, especially when I get to involve my 6-year-old son. We turn our time in the kitchen into a delightful bonding experience. There’s just something magical about creating delicious meals together! Join me as we dive into this indulgent recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. You’ll need:

• 4 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup of milk
• 1/4 cup of butter, melted
• 1 cup of diced carrots
• 1 cup of diced celery
• 1 cup of diced onion
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Timing

This dish is perfect for a weekend family dinner or a cozy weekday meal. Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by shredding your cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. It’s a great shortcut that saves time!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Chicken Broth

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded chicken. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Make the Dumplings

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually stir in the milk and melted butter until the mixture forms a soft dough.

Step 5: Drop the Dumplings

Using a spoon, drop dollops of the dumpling mixture into the simmering chicken broth. Don’t worry about making them perfect; they’ll puff up beautifully as they cook!

Step 6: Cook the Dumplings

Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as it allows steam to escape.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through, serve the dish hot. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make this dish a bit healthier, here are some alternatives:

• Use whole wheat flour for the dumplings.
• Substitute low-sodium chicken broth.
• Add more vegetables, like peas or green beans, for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

This Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings pairs wonderfully with:

• Freshly baked biscuits
• A simple green salad
• Steamed vegetables

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your chicken and dumplings turn out perfect, avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t overmix the dumpling dough; it should be soft and slightly sticky.
• Make sure the broth is simmering before adding the dumplings.
• Resist the urge to lift the pot lid while the dumplings are cooking!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), here are some storage tips:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to keep the dumplings moist.

Conclusion

Your family will love this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings recipe. It’s comforting, delicious, and easy to make – what more could you ask for? Cooking this dish together with my son has always been a joy, and I hope it brings the same happiness to your kitchen.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and broth ahead of time. Just add the dumplings when you’re ready to eat.

What can I use instead of chicken?

You can substitute turkey or even a vegetarian protein like tofu for a meatless version.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, but freezing may alter the texture of the dumplings. If you freeze it, reheat it slowly to avoid mushiness.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today! I hope you’ll give this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings recipe a try. Cooking is about sharing love and creating memories, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy it brings. Be sure to share your thoughts and any variations you try in the comments below. Happy cooking!

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