The Story Behind the Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Some recipes taste like memories. For me, Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is one of them. It’s that warm, creamy dish that brings you back to simpler times — when comfort food was made from scratch, slow-simmered with love, and served with a side of laughter around the kitchen table.
I remember the first time I made it at home. I’d been craving that comforting Southern classic from Cracker Barrel — the tender chicken, the silky broth, those pillowy dumplings that melt in your mouth. The weather outside was chilly, the kind of evening where you crave something cozy and familiar. So, I decided to recreate it — the old-fashioned way, right in my kitchen.
I started by simmering chicken with onions and celery until the broth smelled like pure comfort. I rolled out the dough for the dumplings by hand, just like my grandmother used to do. When I dropped them into the bubbling broth and watched them puff up, I knew it was going to be special.
When I ladled that first bowl, it was everything I hoped for — creamy, hearty, and full of that nostalgic, Southern charm. My family gathered around the table, and after one bite, there was silence — that good kind of silence, the one that says “this is perfect.”
Since then, this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s cozy, simple, and downright soul-satisfying — the kind of meal that makes you feel right at home no matter where you are.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings isn’t just another chicken soup — it’s Southern comfort in its purest form. It’s a dish that reminds you of Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and the simple joy of homemade cooking.
Here’s what makes it truly special:
- Authentic Southern flavor: Inspired by the classic Cracker Barrel recipe — creamy, hearty, and loaded with homemade goodness.
- Tender, flavorful chicken: Slowly simmered until it falls apart effortlessly.
- From-scratch dumplings: Soft yet chewy, rolled out thin for that perfect texture.
- Comfort in every bite: Rich, creamy broth that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
- Made with love: It’s simple, traditional, and warms your soul as much as your stomach.
Every bite of this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is a reminder of how comforting homemade food can be.
Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a pot of this cozy Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings:
🐔 For the Chicken Broth
- 1 whole chicken (about 3 pounds), cut into pieces
- 10 cups water
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, halved
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
🍜 For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter, chilled and cubed
- ¾ cup whole milk
🧄 For the Creamy Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (from above)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper, to taste
🌿 For Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley or fresh thyme leaves
All simple, humble ingredients — but when they come together, they create the magic of true Southern comfort.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Make the Chicken Broth
In a large pot, add chicken pieces, water, celery, carrots, onion, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 45–60 minutes, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Remove the chicken and set aside to cool. Strain the broth through a sieve, discarding the vegetables and bay leaf. Return the strained broth to the pot.
Shred the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces and keep it ready.
Step 2: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add milk and stir until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix — you want tender dumplings!
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently roll it out to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut into 1-inch strips or small squares — the size of your dumplings is totally up to you.
Step 3: Simmer the Dumplings
Bring the strained broth to a gentle boil. Drop the dumplings in one at a time, stirring gently so they don’t stick together.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let them simmer for 10–12 minutes until they’re cooked through and slightly fluffy.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then slowly add 2 cups of chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and let it thicken slightly.
Pour this creamy mixture into your pot with the dumplings, stirring gently to combine.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the broth becomes thick, creamy, and irresistibly rich.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Cozy
Ladle your Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings into bowls and garnish with parsley or thyme. Serve with biscuits or cornbread for the ultimate Southern comfort meal.
Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With
This Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is hearty enough to be the star of the show, but it pairs beautifully with a few classic sides:
- Buttery Biscuits: Perfect for soaking up that creamy broth.
- Sweet Cornbread: Adds a lovely sweet contrast.
- Mashed Potatoes: Because one kind of comfort is never enough.
- Green Beans or Collard Greens: A touch of freshness alongside the richness.
- Apple Pie or Peach Cobbler: End your meal with a slice of Southern sweetness.
However you serve it, this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings turns any dinner into a cozy family feast.
Customization & Variations
Here are a few delicious ways to make this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings your own:
- Shortcut Version: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken and pre-made broth.
- Vegetable Lover’s Version: Add peas, carrots, or corn for extra heartiness.
- Herb Twist: Stir in rosemary, thyme, or sage for a fragrant finish.
- Creamier Version: Add an extra splash of cream or a bit of sour cream for extra richness.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream with coconut milk or oat milk for a lighter version.
- Spicy Southern Style: Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce.
No matter how you customize it, this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings stays comforting, hearty, and full of home-style love.
Storing & Reheating
Refrigerate:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.
Freeze:
This Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings freezes beautifully! Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Pro tip: Dumplings may absorb some liquid over time — just add a bit of extra broth while reheating to bring back that creamy consistency.
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)
Here Are The Nutritional Snapshot Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
Hearty, balanced, and satisfying — this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings is comfort food that nourishes both body and soul.
Reader Q&A – Common Questions
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It’s a great time-saver — just shred and add near the end.
2. Can I use canned biscuits for dumplings?
You can, but homemade dumplings give the best texture and flavor.
3. Can I use boneless chicken breasts?
Absolutely — just simmer gently so they stay tender.
4. How can I make it thicker?
Add more roux or simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
5. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes — use gluten-free flour for both dumplings and roux.
6. What’s the best way to roll dumplings?
Keep your dough chilled and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
7. Can I add vegetables?
Sure! Carrots, peas, or corn make delicious additions.
8. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes — cook on low for 6–7 hours, adding dumplings in the last hour.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely — it’s perfect for family gatherings.
10. Does it taste like Cracker Barrel’s version?
Even better — homemade love always wins!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly timeless about a steaming bowl of Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings. It’s more than just a meal — it’s comfort, nostalgia, and love all simmered together in one pot.
This dish reminds me that the best comfort food doesn’t come from fancy techniques or expensive ingredients. It comes from patience, care, and that special touch that only homemade food can have. Every spoonful feels like warmth — creamy broth, tender chicken, and soft dumplings that melt in your mouth.
Whether you’re cooking it for family dinner, a Sunday gathering, or just to warm up your weeknight, this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings will always bring smiles to the table. So roll up your sleeves, grab your pot, and make this Southern classic — one delicious bite of home at a time. 💛
🍽️ Tried This Recipe?
Did you try this Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings? I’d love to hear how it turned out!
Did you keep it classic or add your own twist — maybe herbs, veggies, or a little extra cream? Share your version in the comments — your creativity might inspire another home cook!
And don’t forget — follow Mama Cooks Dinner on Pinterest for more cozy, heartwarming recipes made with love and old-fashioned flavor. 🥰
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Hi, I’m Sayan, the creator behind Mamacooksdinner.com. I’m passionate about making home cooking easy and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chef, my goal is to help you create delicious meals with simple ingredients.