This Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings Recipe brings back warm, comforting memories of cozy family dinners and Southern hospitality. I’ve always been a fan of hearty, simple dishes that deliver big flavor without fancy techniques. That’s why this recipe means so much to me. It’s a no-fuss meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
The first time I recreated this dish at home, I was surprised by how easy it was to make something that tastes just like the restaurant version. The dumplings are soft and pillowy, the broth is thick and creamy, and the shredded chicken melts in your mouth. Every bite reminded me of sitting in a rustic wooden booth, sipping sweet tea, and digging into a bowl of pure Southern comfort.
Now it’s a regular on my dinner table, especially during cooler months. I love how it only takes a handful of basic ingredients to whip up a meal that everyone raves about. If you’re a fan of Cracker Barrel or just love down-home cooking, this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings Recipe
This dish is the ultimate comfort food. It uses simple pantry staples but transforms them into something magical. The dumplings soak up all the savory goodness of the broth, making every spoonful rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to make in one pot and perfect for feeding a hungry family.
If you enjoy hearty dishes like my Creamy Beef and Shells or Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, then you’re going to adore this homemade chicken and dumplings. It fits right into your collection of comforting, family-approved meals. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will become a cherished part of your rotation.
How to Make the Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by placing boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large stockpot. Cover them with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the chicken is tender and easy to shred, about 25-30 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
While the chicken is cooking, make your dumpling dough. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Cut in some cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly stir in milk until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough out on a floured surface and cut it into strips or squares.
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
Bring the chicken broth back to a gentle boil. Drop in the dumplings one by one, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the dumplings cook for 15-20 minutes until they are plump and tender.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir gently to combine. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors. The broth should be thickened and creamy from the flour on the dumplings.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
If you’re short on time, a store-bought rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute. Just shred it and skip the boiling step. For a richer flavor, swap water with chicken stock or broth. You can also add a splash of heavy cream at the end for extra indulgence.
Looking for a different twist? Stir in some peas and carrots for a more filling meal, or add a dash of poultry seasoning for a deeper savory flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, use plant-based butter and milk. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—you can make it your own without compromising on taste.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings recipe is a meal in itself, but if you want to round it out, there are some delicious options. I like serving it with a side of green beans or buttered corn for a bit of color and crunch. A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. And don’t forget a slice of warm, crusty bread to mop up the creamy broth.
For drinks, sweet tea is the classic Southern companion, but it also pairs nicely with a light white wine or sparkling apple cider. If you’re hosting a dinner, consider finishing with something sweet like peach cobbler or a berry crumble to complete the down-home experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The dumplings may absorb more broth over time, so when reheating, you might need to add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen things up.
To reheat, use the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just make sure it’s wrapped well to avoid drying out.
Can I use a different type of flour for the dumplings?
You can use self-rising flour and skip the baking powder and salt, or even try whole wheat flour for a more rustic flavor, though the texture may be denser.
What if I don’t have a rolling pin?
No problem! You can pat the dough flat with your hands. It doesn’t need to be perfect—rustic dumplings taste just as good.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Cool it completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.
Related Recipe You’ll Like
If you love the cozy, stick-to-your-ribs flavor of this Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings, you’ll definitely want to check out some of my other comforting favorites. My Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is hearty and perfect for busy weeknights. Another go-to is Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta, which delivers a velvety sauce packed with savory richness. For something a bit different but equally satisfying, don’t miss the One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta.
All these recipes are family-friendly, budget-conscious, and easy to make—just like this chicken & dumplings. Add them to your rotation for a comforting meal anytime.
Save and Share This Recipe for Later
Don’t let this cozy comfort dish get lost in the shuffle! Pin this Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready whenever you need a taste of home. Share the recipe with your friends and family on Facebook or Instagram, or even send it in a text to a fellow food lover. Whether it’s for a Sunday dinner, a chilly weeknight, or simply because you’re craving comfort food, this is one recipe worth keeping close.
Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings Recipe
This Cracker Barrel Homemade Chicken & Dumplings Recipe is the epitome of Southern comfort food. Featuring tender shredded chicken in a creamy, savory broth, paired with soft, pillowy dumplings, it brings nostalgic flavor straight from the iconic restaurant into your own kitchen. Made with simple ingredients like flour, butter, milk, and chicken, this dish delivers that warm, homemade taste that everyone craves on a cozy night in. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or sharing with loved ones, this hearty one-pot meal is sure to become a go-to comfort classic.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Water (enough to cover chicken)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp cold butter
- 1 cup milk
- Optional: chicken broth (to enhance flavor)
Instructions
- In a large stockpot, place the chicken and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, about 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in milk gradually until a soft dough forms.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough and cut into strips or squares.
- Bring the broth back to a gentle boil and drop in the dumplings one at a time, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are cooked through.
- Add shredded chicken back to the pot and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Swap water for chicken broth for deeper flavor.
- Add peas and carrots to make it more filling.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze portions for future quick meals.
- Gluten-free flour works as a substitute with slight texture variation.
