Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

The Classic Cracker Barrel Recipe

The allure of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings lies in its comforting simplicity and profound flavor. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of tradition, often evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. This classic dish, renowned for its hearty, creamy broth, tender shredded chicken, and soft, flat dumplings, has earned its place as a quintessential American comfort food. Recreating this experience at home is a rewarding culinary endeavor that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Our homemade recipe aims to capture that authentic, beloved Cracker Barrel style taste, making it accessible for you to enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Why Everyone Loves This Dish

There are countless reasons why this particular chicken and dumplings recipe holds such a special place in people’s hearts. First and foremost, it offers unparalleled comfort, a culinary hug in a bowl, especially on a chilly day. The combination of rich, savory chicken broth, delicately poached chicken, and pillowy dumplings creates a texture and flavor profile that is deeply satisfying. Unlike some other versions of the dish, the Cracker Barrel style typically features flat, noodle-like dumplings that melt in your mouth, absorbing the delicious flavors of the broth. It’s a nostalgic experience for many, reminiscent of home-cooked meals prepared with love. Its straightforward ingredients and relatively simple preparation make it approachable for home cooks, yet its incredible taste leaves a lasting impression, establishing it as a perennial favorite comfort food.

Gathering Cracker Barrel Ingredients

To recreate the authentic taste of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Thankfully, many of these items are likely already in your kitchen, making this a convenient dish to prepare. The beauty of this recipe lies in its reliance on wholesome, straightforward components that come together to form something truly extraordinary. Having all your ingredients ready before you begin cooking, known as mise en place, will streamline your process and ensure a smooth cooking experience. This classic dish is a delightful addition to your main course repertoire, much like our Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese.

Pantry Staples You Will Need

Start by checking your pantry for these essential items. You’ll need all-purpose flour for the dumplings, which forms their structure and chewiness. Baking powder is another crucial ingredient for the dumplings, providing the leavening that makes them light and tender. Salt and black pepper are fundamental seasonings that will enhance the flavors of both the broth and the chicken. Onion powder and garlic powder are excellent additions for a depth of savory aroma without needing fresh aromatics. Chicken broth, preferably a good quality low-sodium variety, will form the backbone of your flavorful liquid. Many of these ingredients are also used in other hearty dinners, like a Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole.

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• Milk (whole milk or 2% for richness)

Fresh Items for Best Flavor

While pantry staples form the foundation, fresh ingredients elevate this dish to its peak flavor. For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal. Thighs offer a richer flavor and tend to stay more moist, while breasts are leaner. You’ll also need fresh onions, celery, and carrots – these aromatic vegetables are essential for building a deep, savory broth. Fresh parsley, either for simmering or as a garnish, adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the richness of the dish. Finally, unsalted butter is critical for both sautéing aromatics and swirling into the finished dish, providing a luxurious richness and silky mouthfeel that is a hallmark of this homemade recipe.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Yellow onion
• Celery stalks
• Carrots
• Fresh parsley
• Unsalted butter

Building Your Flavorful Broth Base

The broth is the soul of your Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. A truly delicious broth provides the creamy, savory foundation upon which the entire dish is built. Taking the time to properly develop these flavors will pay dividends in the final taste, ensuring every spoonful is rich and satisfying. This step is where much of the comforting depth comes from, transforming simple chicken broth into a complex and inviting liquid that will absorb into your tender chicken and fluffy dumplings. It’s a process that mirrors the care put into other beloved soup recipes, such as a Homemade Wonton Soup, where the broth is equally central to the experience.

Simmering Aromatics to Perfection

Begin by melting a generous knob of unsalted butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your diced fresh onions, celery, and carrots. These vegetables, often referred to as a mirepoix, are the holy trinity of flavor bases in many savory dishes. Sauté them gently until they soften and become translucent, about 8-10 minutes. This process allows their natural sugars to caramelize slightly, releasing their full aromatic potential without browning too much. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to draw out moisture and enhance their flavors. Once softened, you can add a touch of garlic powder and onion powder to further deepen the savory notes, stirring for another minute until fragrant.

Poaching Chicken for Tenderness

After your aromatics are fragrant, it’s time to add the chicken. Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs directly into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in enough low-sodium chicken broth to completely cover the chicken. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken poach until it’s cooked through and incredibly tender. Depending on the size of your chicken pieces, this could take anywhere from 15 to 25 minutes. Poaching is the ideal method here because it keeps the chicken moist and ensures it absorbs the savory flavors of the broth, which will later become the base for your classic dish. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly, leaving the rich broth and vegetables in the pot.

Preparing the Cracker Barrel Chicken

Once your chicken is perfectly poached and slightly cooled, the next step is preparing it for its return to the flavorful broth. This process is simple yet crucial for ensuring every bite of your Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings has that signature tender texture. The goal is to create small, manageable pieces that meld seamlessly with the creamy broth and fluffy dumplings, contributing to the overall comfort food experience without dominating it. The chicken should be easily incorporated into the soup, making it a cohesive and delightful meal.

Shredding Cooked Chicken Easily

After the chicken has cooled enough to handle, you have a couple of easy methods for shredding. The most common way is to use two forks. Simply place one fork into the chicken piece and use the other fork to pull the meat apart, separating it into strands. Continue this process until all the chicken is uniformly shredded. For an even quicker method, especially if you’re preparing a larger batch, you can use a stand mixer. Place the cooked chicken pieces into the mixer bowl with the paddle attachment. Turn the mixer on low speed, and within a minute or two, your chicken will be perfectly shredded. This technique saves time and effort, making the preparation even smoother. Once shredded, set the chicken aside, ready to be added back into the rich broth later.

Crafting Your Perfect Dumpling Dough

The dumplings are arguably the star of this classic dish, and crafting them from scratch is incredibly rewarding. Unlike drop dumplings, Cracker Barrel style dumplings are typically rolled thin and cut, creating a tender, noodle-like texture that absorbs the creamy broth beautifully. Don’t be intimidated by making your own dough; it’s a straightforward process that requires just a few simple ingredients and a gentle touch. The effort put into these homemade dumplings truly makes a difference, distinguishing your dish with authentic flavor and texture. This step ensures that your chicken and dumplings will have that perfect, rustic charm.

Mixing Flour and Milk Gently

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is key for light and fluffy dumplings. Next, gradually add the milk to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft, shaggy dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; overworking the dough can lead to tough dumplings. The goal is just to bring the ingredients together until no dry pockets of flour remain. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. This gentle mixing technique ensures the dough remains tender, ready for the next step.

Rolling and Cutting Dough Shapes

Lightly flour a clean work surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently knead it a few times, just enough to bring it together into a cohesive ball. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out evenly to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. You want it relatively thin to achieve that classic flat, tender dumpling texture. Once rolled, use a pizza cutter, sharp knife, or even a pastry wheel to cut the dough into desired shapes. Rectangles or squares of about 1×2 inches are traditional for Cracker Barrel style. You can also cut them into strips. Dust the cut dumplings lightly with a bit more flour to prevent sticking, and lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you prepare to cook them. This meticulous shaping contributes to the comfort food aesthetic.

Cooking Your Perfect Dumplings

Cooking the dumplings correctly is critical to achieving their desired light and tender texture. The key is patience and a gentle approach, allowing them to simmer without becoming tough or falling apart. This stage requires attention to detail, but the payoff is perfectly cooked dumplings that soak up the rich, creamy broth, adding incredible substance and delight to your Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Remember, gentle cooking is essential for these fluffy dumplings. For more dinner ideas that feature tender chicken, you might enjoy our Easy Honey Garlic Chicken.

Gentle Simmer is Key to Success

Return the broth and vegetables (from where you poached the chicken) to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. The liquid should be bubbling very lightly, not boiling vigorously. Carefully drop the cut dumplings, one by one, into the simmering broth. Avoid overcrowding the pot; if you have a very large batch, you might need to cook them in two shifts. Once all the dumplings are in, ensure they are submerged, and stir gently to prevent sticking. Cover the pot and allow the dumplings to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender. They should appear slightly puffed and opaque. A gentle simmer ensures they cook evenly without disintegrating. To check for doneness, carefully remove one dumpling and taste it – it should be soft and not doughy in the center.

What Not to Do While Cooking

To ensure your dumplings turn out perfectly, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid. First, do not drop all the dumplings in at once; this can lower the broth temperature too drastically and cause them to stick together or cook unevenly. Second, resist the urge to stir constantly or vigorously. Excessive stirring can break apart the delicate dumplings, especially in the initial stages of cooking. Stir only occasionally and very gently to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. Third, avoid a rapid boil. A rolling boil will agitate the dumplings too much, leading to a mushy texture or causing them to fall apart. Maintain a consistent, gentle simmer for optimal results. Fourth, do not undercook them; raw dough is unpleasant. Lastly, don’t rush the process; proper cooking takes time for the dumplings to fully absorb the flavors and achieve the right texture. This attention to detail is part of creating truly amazing chicken and dumplings.

Finishing Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

With your dumplings perfectly cooked, the final touches will bring all the elements of your Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings together into a harmonious and incredibly flavorful dish. These last steps are crucial for achieving that signature richness and creamy consistency that makes this comfort food so irresistible. It’s about blending the textures and enhancing the savory notes to create a truly memorable meal. The careful integration of shredded chicken and the luxurious swirl of butter completes this classic recipe.

Adding Shredded Chicken Back In

Once your dumplings are tender and cooked through, it’s time to reintroduce the star protein. Gently add all the shredded cooked chicken back into the pot with the broth and dumplings. Stir everything together very carefully to distribute the chicken evenly throughout the dish without breaking apart the delicate dumplings. Allow the chicken to heat through for a few minutes, absorbing more of that delicious, rich broth. This step not only adds back the essential chicken component but also ensures it is warmed through and ready to be enjoyed alongside the tender dumplings and creamy sauce. For another hearty main course, consider our main course recipes.

Swirling in Butter for Richness

For that authentic, luxurious Cracker Barrel finish, there’s one more ingredient that adds incredible depth and creaminess: butter. Just before serving, turn off the heat and stir in several tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt slowly into the hot broth, creating a silky, rich sheen and an enhanced savory flavor. This addition not only contributes to the creaminess but also rounds out all the flavors, making the broth incredibly inviting and palatable. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired. The swirling butter elevates this classic dish from good to extraordinary, providing that perfect indulgent touch.

Serving Your Delicious Chicken and Dumplings

After all your careful preparation, the moment has finally arrived to serve your magnificent Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. This hearty and comforting dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm, directly from the pot. The aroma alone will gather everyone to the table, ready to savor this homemade masterpiece. It’s a complete meal in itself, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Serve it in large, shallow bowls to allow for plenty of the rich, creamy broth and tender components.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

While the dish is incredibly flavorful on its own, a simple garnish can add a fresh burst of color and a delightful herbaceous note that brightens the entire presentation. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is the classic choice. Its vibrant green contrasts beautifully with the creamy white of the dumplings and broth, and its mild, peppery flavor complements the richness of the dish without overpowering it. Other options could include a touch of fresh thyme or chives, depending on your preference. Garnish just before serving to ensure the herbs remain fresh and fragrant. This small detail elevates the dish, making it even more appealing to the eye and the palate, reminiscent of the best Southern cuisine.

Ingredient Swaps and Helpful Tips

One of the beauties of a classic comfort food recipe like Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is its adaptability. While we strive for an authentic homemade taste, sometimes ingredient availability or dietary preferences call for clever substitutions. Knowing these swaps can make your cooking process smoother and allow you to enjoy this delicious dish even with minor adjustments. These helpful cooking tips will ensure your kitchen adventures are always a success, even when you’re looking for quick shortcuts.

Using Turkey Instead of Chicken

If you have leftover turkey from a holiday meal or simply prefer its flavor, it makes an excellent substitute for chicken in this recipe. Cooked turkey, especially breast meat, can be shredded and added to the broth at the same stage as the cooked chicken. The flavor profile will be very similar, offering the same comforting warmth. Turkey thighs can also be used, offering a slightly richer taste. This swap is a fantastic way to utilize holiday leftovers and prevent food waste, transforming them into a completely new and exciting meal. You could also use ground turkey, as found in recipes like Ground Turkey and Peppers.

Self-Rising Flour Shortcut

For a convenient shortcut in making your dumpling dough, you can use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour and baking powder. Self-rising flour already contains baking powder and salt, simplifying the dry ingredient mixture. If using self-rising flour, omit the separate baking powder and adjust the salt only if needed, based on the salt content of your self-rising flour. This swap can save a step and ensure fluffy dumplings with less fuss, making the overall process of crafting your perfect dumpling dough even easier, without compromising on the tender texture. Just mix with milk, roll, and cut!

Common Cracker Barrel Dumpling Questions

Even with a straightforward recipe, common questions can arise, especially when perfecting a beloved classic like homemade dumplings. Addressing these concerns can help you achieve ideal results and build confidence in your cooking. Understanding the nuances of dumpling preparation ensures your comfort food experience is always top-notch, leading to perfectly fluffy dumplings every time you make this classic dish.

Preventing Dumplings From Falling Apart

Several factors contribute to dumplings falling apart. First, ensure your dough is not too wet; if it is, add a little more flour during the rolling process. Second, avoid overworking the dough, which can develop too much gluten and make them less tender and more prone to breaking. Third, the most critical factor is the simmering temperature. Ensure the broth is at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, when you add the dumplings and throughout their cooking time. Too much agitation will cause them to disintegrate. Finally, avoid stirring vigorously once the dumplings are in the pot. Gentle handling and the correct simmer will yield perfectly intact, tender dumplings.

Can You Make Dough Ahead?

Yes, you can absolutely prepare your dumpling dough ahead of time, which can be a great time-saver for busy cooks. After mixing and forming your dough ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, remove the dough from the fridge about 15-20 minutes before rolling to allow it to come slightly closer to room temperature, making it easier to roll out. You can also roll and cut the dumplings ahead of time, dusting them with a bit of flour and layering them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This preparation will ensure your cooking process is seamless when you’re ready to assemble your delicious chicken and dumplings.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

While Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers are just as delightful and can provide another comforting meal. Proper storage and reheating techniques are key to maintaining the texture of both the tender chicken and the fluffy dumplings, ensuring your homemade recipe tastes great even on the second day. This is a dish that often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld further, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping.

Keep Extra Broth Handy

When storing leftovers, transfer the chicken and dumplings to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. It’s common for the dumplings and chicken to absorb a lot of the broth as it cools, making the leftovers thicker than the original dish. To combat this and ensure your reheated portion retains its creamy consistency, it’s a great idea to keep extra chicken broth handy. When reheating, gently warm portions on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash or two of additional chicken broth as needed to reach your desired consistency. This simple tip will prevent your leftovers from being too dry and ensure a delicious experience, much like reheating other hearty dishes like Fiery Dragon Chicken.

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Nutrition

Understanding the nutrition of your homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings can be helpful for meal planning, especially if you’re mindful of your dietary intake. While this is a classic comfort food, its nutritional profile can vary based on portion size, specific ingredients used, and preparation methods. Typically, this dish provides a good source of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the dumplings, and some essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and broth.

A standard serving often contains a balance of macronutrients. The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and satiety. The flour-based dumplings contribute carbohydrates, offering energy. The broth, rich with vegetables, contributes minimal calories but adds flavor and some nutrients. The addition of butter and whole milk will increase the fat content, contributing to the creamy texture and richness. You can modify the nutritional content by opting for lean chicken breasts, using lower-fat milk, or reducing the amount of butter. While precise nutritional values would require a detailed recipe analysis, this overview provides a general idea of what this delicious, hearty meal offers, aligning with a balanced approach to enjoying your favorite homemade recipes. For more cooking inspiration and to connect with other food lovers, follow Carina Recipes on Pinterest and Instagram!