Introducing the delectable “Chicken and Dumplings Like Cracker Barrel’s” recipe, a culinary masterpiece that mirrors the irresistible flavors of Cracker Barrel’s renowned dish. 🍲✨ This delightful creation, sourced from the cherished pages of the “Old Fashioned Country Cooking” book at Cracker Barrel, promises to transport your taste buds to a realm of comfort and satisfaction.
Preparation Time: 1 hour ⏰
Cooking Time: 2 hours ⏰
Total Time: 3 hours ⏰

Ingredients:
- 1 frying chicken 🍗
- 2 cups water 💧
- 2 teaspoons salt 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper 🌶️
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 🥄
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 cup shortening 🧈
- 3 cups buttermilk 🥛
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 710.5
- Fat: 41.4g
- Saturated Fat: 11.7g
- Cholesterol: 172mg
- Sodium: 1275.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 33.4g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Sugar: 1.6g
- Protein: 47.7g
Aggregated Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 stars)
Review Count: 81 🌟
Instructions:
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Begin by placing the whole frying chicken into a Dutch oven and adding 2 cups of water along with 2 teaspoons of salt. Bring this flavorful concoction to a rolling boil, then cover, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for an hour or until the chicken becomes tender and almost falls off the bone.
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Once the chicken achieves its succulent tenderness, remove it from the broth and allow it to cool. Skillfully bone the chicken and cut the meat into delightful, bite-sized pieces, setting the stage for a satisfying dining experience.
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Elevate the broth’s taste by bringing it back to a boil and generously adding pepper, infusing it with a perfect blend of spices.
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In a separate bowl, embark on the creation of the delectable dumplings. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Then, with finesse, cut in the shortening. Add the buttermilk, stirring with a fork until the mixture achieves a moistened, doughy consistency.
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The dough, a crucial element of this culinary symphony, requires a gentle kneading—4 to 5 times will suffice. Optionally, pat it into 1/2-inch pieces, or if you’re feeling adventurous, simply pinch off pieces and drop them into the boiling broth.
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To complete the magic, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the dumplings cook for approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure a harmonious infusion of flavors.
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As the kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma, reintroduce the chicken into the mix, creating a marriage of textures and tastes that will leave your senses in awe.
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The grand finale involves serving this culinary masterpiece to eager diners. Whether you choose the traditional stovetop method or opt for the pressure cooker for a quicker result, the outcome promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
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For those with a need for speed, the pressure cooker method is a game-changer, requiring only 30 minutes to achieve perfection. Alternatively, the crockpot is a viable option, though cooking times may vary depending on the water quantity (3-4 cups).
Wishing you the best of luck on your culinary journey! May this Chicken and Dumplings recipe bring joy and satisfaction to your dining table. 🌟🍽️