Chicken n' Dumplins
Tender, hand-rolled dumplins simmered in a rich chicken broth with shredded chicken. A Cracker Barrel classic.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Chicken and dumplings likely evolved from simple peasant foods where meat was stewed with readily available grains or flours to create a hearty, filling meal. Similar dishes exist in many cultures, indicating a widespread need to stretch resources. The American version is heavily influenced by Southern cooking traditions and resourceful homemakers.
Chicken and dumplings is deeply rooted in Southern American culture, often associated with family gatherings, home cooking, and comfort food.
Family Gatherings
Chicken and dumplings is a dish frequently made for large family meals and potlucks, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and togetherness. It's a dish often passed down through generations.
Southern Comfort Food
It is a quintessential Southern comfort food, representing simple, hearty fare that evokes feelings of nostalgia and satisfaction. It's a dish that is meant to be savored slowly and enjoyed with loved ones.
Resourcefulness
The dish highlights the Southern tradition of resourcefulness, using readily available ingredients to create a filling and satisfying meal. It reflects a history of making the most of what you have.
Chicken and dumplings offer a comforting and savory flavor profile, characterized by rich chicken broth and soft, doughy dumplings.
The dominant flavor is savory, stemming from the chicken broth, which is typically seasoned with herbs like thyme, bay leaf, and sometimes a touch of sage. The shredded chicken contributes its own rich, meaty flavor. The dumplings, depending on the recipe, may have a slight buttery or milky flavor, and absorb the broth, becoming intensely flavorful. Some variations include vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, adding sweetness and depth.
Broth Quality
Using a high-quality chicken broth, or even better, homemade chicken stock, significantly enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Dumpling Texture
Don't overmix the dumpling dough. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough dumplings. A light hand ensures tender, fluffy dumplings.
Cooking Time
Avoid overcooking the dumplings, as they can become gummy or fall apart. Cook them until they are cooked through and slightly firm to the touch. Use the toothpick test.
Seasoning
Season the broth generously. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process. Salt and pepper are essential, but consider adding other herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
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