There are some dishes that just wrap you in a warm hug, transporting you back to simpler times and unforgettable meals. For many, that dish is the legendary Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Just thinking about it conjures images of cozy, bustling country stores, the aroma of savory chicken stewing, and the promise of perfectly tender, fluffy dumplings nestled in a rich, creamy broth.
It’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of nostalgia, a symbol of Southern comfort food at its finest. If you’ve ever savored that iconic dish and wished you could recreate its magic in your own kitchen, your wish is about to come true. This article provides the ultimate, easy-to-follow copycat recipe, meticulously designed to help you master the art of making the best homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings right in your home.
We’re diving deep into the secrets behind those incredibly fluffy dumplings, that deeply savory and perfectly seasoned broth, and chicken so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Get ready to learn how to make Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings that will have your family asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Homestyle Recipe
This isn’t just another chicken and dumplings recipe; it’s a journey to capture the authentic heart of a beloved classic. You’ll quickly discover why this specific copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe will become a cherished staple in your home.
- Authentic Flavor, Unrivaled Comfort: We’ve painstakingly developed this recipe to nail the specific, comforting taste and velvety texture of the original. Each spoonful delivers that distinct, home-cooked goodness that makes Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings so special.
- Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need any fancy, hard-to-find items here. This recipe champions common pantry staples and fresh ingredients easily found at any grocery store, making this homemade chicken and dumplings dish surprisingly accessible.
- Better Than The Restaurant Experience: While we adore Cracker Barrel, there’s something undeniably superior about a dish made fresh in your kitchen. Our recipe allows you to control the quality, freshness, and seasoning, resulting in a superior taste and texture that truly shines. It’s truly the best chicken and dumplings recipe you’ll make!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner, planning a Sunday supper, or need to feed a crowd, this southern chicken and dumplings recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s the quintessential comfort food recipe.
A Closer Look at The Ingredients
Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to mastering this exceptional dish. Here’s a breakdown of the vital components that make up our delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings.
For the Chicken and Broth
- Chicken: For convenience and quick cooking, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are excellent. They cook quickly and shred beautifully. If you’re after deeper flavor and don’t mind a bit more work, bone-in chicken thighs or a mix of thighs and breasts will yield a richer broth. As a fantastic shortcut, a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save significant time.
- Chicken Broth: The foundation of our flavorful stew. While store-bought broth is perfectly fine, opt for a high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth. This allows you to control the saltiness, ensuring your dish is perfectly seasoned.
- The Mirepoix: This classic aromatic base of diced onion, carrots, and celery provides essential depth and sweetness to the broth. It’s the starting point for countless savory dishes.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Dried thyme is crucial for that signature Southern flavor, complementing the chicken beautifully. Garlic powder adds a mellow, aromatic punch without being overpowering. Salt and pepper are, of course, essential for proper seasoning.
For the Fluffy Dumplings
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our dumplings. It provides structure and allows them to become light and tender.
- Baking Powder: This is the leavening agent responsible for those wonderfully light and fluffy dumplings. Don’t skip it; it’s what differentiates these from flat noodles.
- Milk & Butter: These fats add richness and ensure a tender, soft dough. Whole milk is recommended for its fat content, while melted butter contributes to the luxurious texture. For a subtle tangy note, you could try buttermilk instead of regular milk.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Gathering your tools beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. You likely have most of these on hand already!
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Essential for simmering the chicken and cooking the entire dish. A dutch oven chicken and dumplings is always a winner!
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the dumpling dough.
- Whisk: To combine dry ingredients for the dumplings.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and scraping.
- Forks: Ideal for easily shredding the cooked chicken.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings: Step-by-Step
Let’s dive into the heart of the recipe! Follow these steps carefully to achieve that authentic Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings experience.
Step 1: Cook the Chicken & Create the Flavorful Broth
Place chicken breasts in your large pot or Dutch oven and cover with chicken broth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, and a bay leaf if desired. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through but not overcooked. Remove chicken to a plate to cool slightly. Shred it finely using two forks. This initial simmer is crucial as it infuses the broth with deep chicken flavor, laying a superior foundation for your chicken and dumpling soup compared to simply using store-bought broth.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot (or discard the broth and start fresh if you prefer a clearer broth, though most enjoy the chicken-infused liquid), add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic powder and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the next layer of savory flavor for your creamy chicken and dumplings.
Step 3: Mix the Perfect Dumpling Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing with a wooden spoon until just combined. Crucial Tip: Do NOT overmix the dough! It should look a bit shaggy and sticky. Overmixing is the number one cause of tough dumplings. This dough is designed to be soft and fluffy, making for perfect chicken and dumplings from scratch.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings to Fluffy Perfection
Bring the broth in the pot back to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). Use a spoon to drop small, rounded spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering broth. Try to keep them somewhat uniform in size for even cooking. Once all the dough is in the pot, cover tightly with a lid. Crucial Tip: Resist the urge to peek! Let the dumplings cook undisturbed for 12-15 minutes. The steam is essential for cooking them through and making them light and airy. This is how to make fluffy dumplings that truly melt in your mouth.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Gently remove the lid. The dumplings should be puffed up and tender. Carefully stir in the shredded chicken. Taste the broth and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference. Your incredible Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings are now ready to be served!
Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results
Elevate your homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings with these expert insights:
- The Secret to Fluffy Dumplings: As emphasized, do not overmix your dumpling dough. Mix until just combined, even if it looks a little lumpy. Also, once the lid is on, do not peek! Let the steam do its magic.
- How to Thicken the Stew: If your broth isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can easily remedy it. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (or flour) with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering chicken and dumpling soup a few minutes before adding the chicken, and let it cook until thickened.
- For a Creamier Broth: For that extra rich and comforting touch often found in creamy chicken and dumplings, stir in a splash (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) of heavy cream or half-and-half at the very end, just before serving. Warm it through gently, but avoid boiling.
- Don’t Boil the Dumplings: A gentle simmer is key to perfectly cooked, tender dumplings. A rolling boil can cause them to break apart or become tough and gummy.
- Use Warm Milk: When making the dumpling dough, using milk that’s slightly warm can help the butter incorporate more easily and contribute to a more tender dough.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
While this recipe aims for the classic Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings flavor, feel free to personalize it!
- Rolled Dumplings vs. Drop Dumplings: This recipe uses drop dumplings, which are soft, fluffy, and biscuit-like. For a different texture, you could try rolled dumplings. Roll the dough thinly on a floured surface and cut it into strips for a chewier, more noodle-like dumpling.
- Slow Cooker / Crockpot Method: For a hands-off meal, this recipe adapts well to a slow cooker. Cook the chicken and vegetables as usual, then transfer to the crockpot with the broth. Simmer on low for 4-6 hours. Add the dumplings during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This is a fantastic option for crockpot chicken and dumplings.
- Herb Variations: While thyme is essential, feel free to experiment with other complementary herbs. A pinch of dried rosemary or sage can add a lovely depth, transforming it into a richer chicken stew with dumplings.
- Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrition and color by stirring in some frozen peas or corn during the final 5 minutes of cooking.
What to Serve with Chicken and Dumplings
This hearty dish is satisfying on its own, but a few classic Southern sides can complete the experience:
- Buttermilk Biscuits or Cornbread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth.
- Southern Green Beans: A classic pairing that offers a fresh, vibrant contrast.
- Fried Okra: For a taste of true Southern comfort.
- Collard Greens: Another traditional side that complements the richness of the main dish.
- A Simple Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad can cut through the richness of the Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions
Don’t let any of your delicious Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings go to waste!
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Can you freeze chicken and dumplings? Yes, with a caveat. While the broth and chicken freeze beautifully, the texture of the dumplings can change slightly upon thawing, often becoming a bit chewier or softer. Freeze portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. The dumplings will absorb a lot of the broth, so you’ll likely need to add a splash of extra chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Gently warm until heated through. We advise against microwaving if possible, as it can sometimes make the dumplings rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are my dumplings tough or gummy?
This is almost always caused by overworking the dough. Mix until just combined and stop. Also, cooking them at too high a heat (a rolling boil instead of a gentle simmer) can contribute to toughness. A gentle simmer is key to perfectly fluffy dumplings.
What’s the difference between drop dumplings and rolled dumplings?
Drop dumplings, like those used in this Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe, are soft, light, fluffy, and biscuit-like. They are dropped by spoonfuls into the simmering broth. Rolled dumplings are made by rolling out the dough thinly and cutting it into strips, resulting in a flatter, chewier texture, more akin to a noodle.
Can I use a rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Using a rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Simply shred about 3-4 cups of cooked chicken and skip the initial chicken simmering step. Be sure to use a high-quality store-bought chicken broth to compensate for not building a homemade broth base.
How do I keep my dumplings from falling apart?
Ensuring your broth is at a gentle simmer, not a vigorous boil, is the most important factor. Also, make sure your dumpling dough isn’t too wet; it should be sticky but hold its shape on a spoon. Avoid stirring too aggressively once the dumplings are added.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. For the dumplings, use a quality cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum) in place of all-purpose flour. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels on broth and seasonings.
Conclusion
Recreating the magic of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings at home is not just possible, it’s incredibly rewarding. This easy-to-follow, authentic recipe brings all the warmth, comfort, and nostalgic flavor right to your kitchen. With tender chicken, a rich savory broth, and those irresistible fluffy dumplings, you’re set to create a meal that will become a beloved family tradition.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the ultimate Southern comfort food. We can’t wait to hear how your homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings turn out! Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
For more daily recipes and tips, follow us on Facebook!
Click here to join our community!