Are you craving that comforting, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Cracker Barrel's famous Chicken and Dumplings? Well, you're in luck! This copycat recipe brings those delicious flavors right to your kitchen. Forget the long drive and crowded restaurant; this easy recipe lets you enjoy a warm, homemade bowl of happiness any night of the week. It's a perfect example of healthy meals made easy, perfect for a quick dinner idea or a cozy weekend treat. Get ready for a taste of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Broth:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Simmering the Broth
Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 3: Making the Dumplings
While the chicken simmers, prepare the dumplings. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. The dough should be slightly lumpy.
Step 4: Adding the Dumplings
Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering chicken and broth mixture. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Step 5: Serving
Serve the Chicken and Dumplings hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this delicious and comforting homemade meal!
Cooking Tips for Delicious Dishes:
- For richer flavor: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of boneless, skinless breasts.
- Thicker dumplings: If you prefer thicker dumplings, use a little less milk in the recipe.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth for a little heat.
- Make it ahead: The chicken and broth can be made ahead of time and reheated before adding the dumplings.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken and Dumplings: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Vegetable Chicken and Dumplings: Add other vegetables such as peas, green beans, or corn to the broth.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like sage, oregano, or marjoram.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-40g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This recipe provides a delightful alternative to restaurant meals, offering a satisfying and delicious homemade option. It's a simple yet impressive dish perfect for family dinners or a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy the process of preparing this easy recipe and savor the rewarding taste of your homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings!