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Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

A cozy and comforting dish featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth, perfect for chilly days and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the broth
  • 6 cups chicken broth Use high-quality broth, homemade is ideal.
  • 2 ribs celery, broken into large pieces
  • ½ medium onion (keep intact as a large piece)
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved Using leftover rotisserie chicken is an option.
For the dumplings
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup plus 2 tbsp milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste Season generously before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for about 15 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
  3. Remove chicken, celery, and onion from the pot and set aside.
Dumpling Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Gradually stir in milk until a soft dough forms.
  3. Roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thick and cut into strips or squares.
Cooking
  1. Drop dumplings into the simmering broth and cook for 20-30 minutes until fluffy.
  2. Shred or chop the cooked chicken and return it to the pot.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

This dish freezes beautifully; make a large batch for later. Serve with fresh herbs for garnish. Avoid over-mixing the dumpling dough to ensure fluffiness.