There's something so comforting about a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings, especially when the weather starts to cool down. This Cracker Barrel CopyCat Chicken and Dumplings recipe brings a taste of the South right into your kitchen. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a Cracker Barrel during a road trip with friends. We were all exhausted and hungry, and this hearty meal was just what we needed. It's a perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade and satisfying without too much fuss.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad to add some greens to your meal. You might also consider serving it with a slice of cornbread or a warm biscuit to soak up all that delicious broth. For a little extra comfort, a side of mashed potatoes can make this meal even more filling and satisfying.

Servings: 4

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
6 cups chicken broth
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup shortening
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the milk gradually until the dough forms a ball.

5. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.

6. Cut the dough into strips or squares, about 1 inch wide.

7. Drop the dumplings into the boiling broth, stirring gently to prevent sticking.

8. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the dumplings for about 15 minutes, or until they are cooked through.

9. Add the shredded chicken to the pot and heat through.

10. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

For a creamier version, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the broth before serving. If you're short on time, using store-bought rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut. You can also add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. For those who prefer a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add some heat to the dish.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove