Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the warm, hearty goodness of Chicken & Dumplings. Inspired by the homestyle flavors of Cracker Barrel, this recipe recreates their signature dish—a creamy, flavorful chicken stew topped with tender dumplings. It’s a taste of Southern hospitality right in your own kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s a one-pot wonder that fills your home with the rich aroma of simmering chicken, buttery broth, and freshly made dumplings. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving something nostalgic, this dish has a way of making everything feel cozier.

Each spoonful is a delightful combination of tender chicken, velvety broth, and pillowy dumplings. It’s hearty enough to satisfy big appetites yet comforting enough to soothe the soul.

Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is as easy to make as it is to devour. Plus, making it at home allows you to adjust the flavors to suit your preferences—more herbs, a richer broth, or even some added veggies.

Ready to bring a taste of Cracker Barrel into your home? Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe for Homemade Chicken & Dumplings.

Cracker Barrel’s Homemade Chicken & Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken in a creamy, flavorful broth with soft, buttery dumplings.

This one-pot dish is simple to make and perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Making it at home allows you to enjoy the nostalgic flavors of Cracker Barrel while tailoring the dish to your taste.

If you’re looking for a hearty and heartwarming recipe, this one’s a winner.

Exciting Story

I’ll never forget the first time I had Chicken & Dumplings at Cracker Barrel. It was a chilly evening, and the warm, creamy broth felt like a hug in a bowl. Since then, it’s been my go-to comfort food for family dinners.

When I recreated this dish at home, it became an instant hit. My husband loves the tender dumplings, and my kids call it “chicken cloud soup.” Now, it’s a staple in our house, especially during the colder months.

Why This Chicken & Dumplings Recipe?

• Classic Comfort: A dish that soothes the soul and warms the heart.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together for a hearty meal.
• Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or veggies to make it your own.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy preparation and minimal cleanup.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

What You Need for Chicken & Dumplings

• For the Chicken Stew:
  • 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs) or 4 chicken breasts
  • 8 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced (optional)
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced (optional)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• For the Dumplings:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
  • 3/4 cup milk

How to Make Chicken & Dumplings

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • In a large pot, place the chicken, water (or broth), onion, carrots, celery, garlic, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked and tender.
2. Shred the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin.
3. Prepare the Broth:
   • Strain the broth if desired, then return it to the pot. Add the shredded chicken back in and bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
4. Make the Dumplings:
   • In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the milk until a soft dough forms.
5. Cook the Dumplings:
   • Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth, ensuring they don’t touch. Cover the pot and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the chicken and dumplings into bowls and serve hot.

Tips for Chicken & Dumplings

1. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Keep the dumpling dough just combined to ensure tender, fluffy dumplings.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Add fresh parsley or thyme to the broth for an extra burst of flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth.
• Creamy Broth: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk for a richer broth.
• Add Veggies: Include peas, green beans, or corn for added texture and flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Low-Fat: Use skinless chicken breasts and replace butter with a plant-based alternative.
• Whole Grain: Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier dumpling option.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt levels.

Closing for Chicken & Dumplings

And there you have it—Cracker Barrel-inspired Chicken & Dumplings that bring the warmth of Southern comfort food right into your home. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let us know how yours turns out, and explore more of our comforting recipes for even more inspiration!

Frequently Asked Questions for Chicken & Dumplings

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Use pre-cooked chicken and skip the boiling step.
2. What’s the best type of chicken for this recipe?
   Whole chicken or bone-in thighs provide the richest flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the stew and dumplings separately, then reheat and combine before serving.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I freeze chicken and dumplings?
   Yes, freeze the stew without the dumplings for up to 3 months. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.
6. What’s the secret to fluffy dumplings?
   Don’t overmix the dough, and cook them covered to trap steam.
7. Can I use canned biscuits for dumplings?
   Yes, cut canned biscuit dough into small pieces and drop them into the broth.
8. Can I make gluten-free dumplings?
   Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dumplings.
9. How do I thicken the broth?
   Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering broth.
10. Can I add herbs to the dumplings?
    Absolutely! Fresh parsley, thyme, or chives add extra flavor.
11. What side dishes pair well with this?
    Serve with a simple green salad, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.
12. Can I use a slow cooker?
    Yes, cook the chicken and broth in a slow cooker, then transfer to the stovetop to add the dumplings.
13. Do I have to use milk in the dumplings?
    No, you can use water, chicken broth, or a plant-based milk alternative.
14. What can I do if my dumplings are too dense?
    Ensure the dough is not overworked, and check that your baking powder is fresh.