Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

If nostalgia ever had a flavor, it just might be the warm, comforting taste of Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings. This is the kind of dish that turns a simple dinner into a cherished memory, brimming with tender chicken, soft pillowy dumplings, and rich, savory broth. Whether you’re recreating a roadside classic or introducing someone to the joys of Southern home cooking, this recipe delivers the same heartwarming feeling you’ll find at your favorite country restaurant—right from your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is simpler than you might expect, especially since every ingredient you add serves a real purpose. From the fresh, hearty broth to the tender dumplings, these basics come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and that signature homestyle appeal.

• Chicken broth: Provides a flavorful, rich base for simmering the chicken and dumplings, infusing every bite with savory goodness.
• Celery ribs: Infuses subtle herbal notes into the broth and chicken, adding depth and aroma.
• Onion (half, large piece): Enhances the complexity of your broth, then is removed so kids (and picky adults) won’t even notice it was there.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein—cooks quickly and shreds easily for a classic, tender bite.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your dumplings, ensuring a classic soft-yet-chewy texture.
• Baking powder: Gives dumplings a little lift and fluffiness so they don’t end up dense or tough.
• Salt: Essential to coax out all the savory flavors in both your dumplings and the broth.
• Milk: Helps bind the dumpling dough while lending a creamy touch that keeps the dumplings tender.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Finish the dish with a custom touch, letting everyone season their bowl to their perfect comfort level.

How to Make Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Step 1: Simmer the Chicken and Build the Broth

Grab your biggest pot or Dutch oven and combine the chicken broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts. Bring this mixture to a lively boil, then reduce your heat to a gentle simmer and partially cover. After about 15 minutes, the chicken should be cooked through and smelling wonderful. The celery and onion do their silent magic here, adding background harmony to the robust chicken flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

As your kitchen starts to fill with that irresistible aroma, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Once dry ingredients are combined, gently stir in the milk until you have a scraggly, shaggy ball of dough. Don’t overwork it—your dumplings will be softer if you keep it tender!

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dumplings

Turn the dough onto a floured surface, and roll it out to just about 1/4-inch thick. Slice into strips or squares, about 1–2 inches wide. This rustic shape is essential to Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings—uneven edges are not just welcome, they’re encouraged!

Step 4: Remove Chicken and Vegetables

Once your chicken is cooked through, lift it out of the pot and place it on a cutting board to cool slightly. Fish out and discard the onion and celery—they’ve shared their flavors and done their part. This leaves you with a rich, golden broth ready for dumplings.

Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Now for the fun part: gently drop your dough strips into the simmering broth, giving an occasional soft stir so they don’t stick together. Let the dumplings bubble gently for about 20–30 minutes, until tender and the broth has thickened into a cozy, gravy-like base.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken and Combine

While the dumplings cook, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot, folding it in gently so each piece is coated with that silky gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this final seasoning is where you get to adjust everything to your perfect comfort level.

How to Serve Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dash of cracked black pepper on top not only brightens up your bowl visually, but also adds that final pop of freshness. For true Southern comfort vibes, a few drops of hot sauce or a pat of butter can work wonders.

Side Dishes

It’s classic to serve Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings alongside sweet cornbread, buttery green beans, or steaming bowls of mashed potatoes. A crisp green salad or smoky roasted carrots also add vibrant contrast and round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try spooning your chicken and dumplings into individual ramekins or mini Dutch ovens for a homestyle, personalized touch, or serve them family-style in a big rustic pot in the center of your table. You can even top each serving with a baked biscuit for a fun twist that’s just begging to be photographed.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling slightly, tuck leftover Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors tend to meld and get even richer overnight, making leftovers a crave-worthy lunch treat.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Spoon cooled chicken and dumplings into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much, just add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. For single servings, a minute or two in the microwave works as well.

FAQs

How do I keep my dumplings from getting tough?

The secret is not to overmix your dumpling dough. Stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined, and handle the dough as little as possible. The less you fuss with it, the more tender your dumplings will be!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs lend a bit more flavor and richness, plus they stay moist even if slightly overcooked. Just be sure to trim excess fat before simmering.

Can I double the recipe?

You sure can. If you’re feeding a crowd, simply double all the ingredients and use your largest stockpot. The process and cook times stay mostly the same, just keep an eye to ensure nothing spills over.

How do I thicken or thin the broth?

If your broth is too thin after the dumplings cook, just simmer a little longer with the lid off. Too thick? Stir in a bit of extra warmed broth or milk until it looks just right to you.

What’s the best way to reheat Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings?

For best results, reheat slowly over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring gently. If things get too thick, stir in an extra splash of broth to restore that velvety gravy texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving some serious comfort or just want to treat your loved ones to an old-fashioned classic, Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is a recipe you’ll reach for again and again. It’s hearty, deeply satisfying, and brings a little taste of country warmth right to your table—give it a try, and let those smiles be your new tradition!

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