What can I serve with Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings?

A common side dish for this main course includes green beans, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. Cornbread is also a popular choice.

How do I make the dish less salty?

If the dish turns out too salty, you can dilute the saltiness by adding more unsalted broth or water.

Can I use self rising flour?

Yes, but you will need to omit the salt and baking powder.

Can I make this a crockpot chicken and dumplings recipe?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Cook the chicken and broth on low for 6-8 hours, then add the dumplings and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.

What's the difference between dumplings and biscuits?

Dumplings are typically softer and doughier than biscuits. The dumpling dough is dropped onto the simmering broth and cooked in the steam, absorbing the flavor of the broth. This produces tender dumplings every time.

How do I make the dish creamier?

If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or whole milk to the broth before adding the dumplings.

How can I make the dumplings fluffier?

To make fluffy dumplings, handle the dough as little as possible and make sure not to overmix it. Rather than rolling and cutting the dough, drop a spoonful or ball of dough onto the simmering broth without pressing it down.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and broth ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add the dumplings just before serving to ensure they are fresh and don't become too soggy.

How can I add vegetables to the dish?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or peas to the broth for added flavor and nutrition. Dice the vegetables and add them when you start simmering the broth.

What should I do if my dumplings are too doughy?

If your dumplings turn out too doughy, try rolling the dough thinner before dropping it into the simmering broth. Additionally, ensure the broth is simmering gently, not boiling.

Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe for a pressure cooker. Cook the chicken on high pressure for about 20-25 minutes, then add the dumplings and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe - Copycat

Ingredients

Units Scale

6 cups chicken broth
2 ribs of celery
1/2 medium onion (do not dice or slice)
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, each breast cut in half
3 cups all purpose flour
1 Tbsp baking powder
1 1/4 tsp salt
1 cup + 2 tablespoon milk
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

In a large pot or dutch oven, add broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the chicken breast is cooked through (temp of 165 F). While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings.

PREPARE THE DUMPLINGS

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk just until combined. You can use a pastry cutter, a fork or the whisk.
Use a rolling pin to roll the dough onto a lightly floured surface – to about ¼ inch thickness.
Use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips or squares about 1 to 2 inches in size.

SHRED THE CHICKEN

Once the chicken is cooked through remove it from the broth and place it in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or Kitchenaid Mixer to shred. (Follow these instructions).
Remove the onion chunk and celery pieces from the broth and discard.

COOK THE DUMPLINGS

Add the dumplings to the simmering broth and simmer for about 15-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the dumplings to cook and the broth to thicken to a gravy-like consistency. You may need to add additional chicken broth if the dumplings absorb too much.
Return shredded chicken to the pot with 10 minutes left to simmer.
Add salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Author: Anna Luther