Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings
Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings: A Southern Comfort Classic
If there’s one dish that embodies true Southern comfort food, it’s Chicken & Dumplings. This dish has been warming hearts and filling bellies for generations, and few places do it better than Cracker Barrel. Their thick, creamy broth, tender shredded chicken, and soft, pillowy dumplings make for a dish that is simple yet incredibly satisfying.
The good news? You don’t need to visit Cracker Barrel to enjoy this dish—you can make it right at home! In this article, we’ll share the best homemade Chicken & Dumplings recipe, inspired by Cracker Barrel’s famous dish. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner, a Sunday gathering, or just craving a nostalgic meal, this recipe will transport you straight to your favorite country kitchen.
Why Everyone Loves Cracker Barrel’s Chicken & Dumplings
This dish is simple yet incredibly comforting, and here’s why it’s so beloved:
- Thick & creamy broth – No watery soups here! The gravy-like texture makes this dish extra cozy.
- Soft & chewy dumplings – Unlike fluffy biscuit-style dumplings, these are rolled and cut, giving them a tender, slightly chewy texture that absorbs the rich broth beautifully.
- Classic homemade flavor – This dish is made with basic, wholesome ingredients, making it the ultimate made-from-scratch comfort food.
The Best Homemade Chicken & Dumplings Recipe
This recipe stays true to the Cracker Barrel style, with a rich, creamy broth and traditional rolled dumplings. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and will have everyone going back for seconds!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Chicken & Broth:
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled chicken)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, but adds depth)
- ½ tsp poultry seasoning (optional)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (to thicken the broth)
- ¼ cup water (for slurry)
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1/3 cup shortening or butter
- ¾ cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Broth
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat chicken broth over medium heat.
- Stir in butter, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and poultry seasoning.
- In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup flour with ¼ cup water to form a slurry.
- Slowly whisk the slurry into the broth to thicken it slightly.
- Add in the shredded chicken, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer while you prepare the dumplings.
2. Make the Dumplings
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the shortening or butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the buttermilk, mixing just until a dough forms.
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thick.
- Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into ½-inch wide strips, about 2 inches long.
3. Cook the Dumplings
- Bring the broth back to a gentle boil.
- Drop the dumpling strips one by one into the simmering broth, stirring gently so they don’t stick together.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dumplings are soft and tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle generous portions of chicken and dumplings into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for extra flavor.
- Serve hot with cornbread, biscuits, or a simple side salad.
Why This Recipe is Just Like Cracker Barrel’s
- Traditional Rolled Dumplings – These are not fluffy drop dumplings, but thin, chewy dumplings that soak up the creamy broth just like Cracker Barrel’s version.
- Rich, Thickened Broth – The flour slurry adds body to the broth, making it thicker and more comforting than regular chicken soup.
- Classic, Down-Home Flavor – Simple seasonings, butter, and milk create that rich and savory taste.
Tips for the Best Chicken & Dumplings
✅ Use rotisserie chicken – It’s flavorful and saves time.
✅ Roll dumplings thin – Thick dumplings can be too dense and take longer to cook.
✅ Don’t overwork the dough – Overmixing can make dumplings tough instead of tender.
✅ Let the dumplings simmer – The longer they cook, the more they soak up the delicious broth.
✅ Adjust thickness – If you prefer a thinner broth, add a little more chicken broth or milk.
What to Serve with Chicken & Dumplings
While this dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, it pairs well with classic Southern sides:
🥖 Biscuits or Cornbread – Perfect for scooping up the creamy broth.
🥗 Side Salad – A simple green salad balances out the richness.
🌽 Buttered Corn or Green Beans – Adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
🍠 Mashed Potatoes – Extra indulgent but totally worth it!
Storing & Reheating Chicken & Dumplings
Storing:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just note that the dumplings may break down slightly when reheated.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it’s too thick.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
Why You Need to Try This Recipe
If you love Cracker Barrel’s Chicken & Dumplings, this homemade version is even better—rich, creamy, and packed with classic comfort-food flavor. With its tender dumplings and creamy chicken broth, this dish is guaranteed to bring warmth and nostalgia to your table.
Make it for Sunday dinner, a chilly evening, or just when you need a little extra comfort. Once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to family favorite!
