Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Category: Inspiring Dinner Ideas

Classic chicken and dumplings made with tender chicken pieces and homemade dough dumplings in rich broth. Takes 40 minutes total. Serves 6.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Fri, 21 Feb 2025 16:27:15 GMT
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Save
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings | kitchenscroll.com

A perfect replica of comfort food at its finest, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings delivers tender chicken and pillowy dumplings swimming in rich, flavorful broth. Each spoonful combines silky dumplings with perfectly cooked chicken in a dish that brings restaurant quality right to your kitchen.

During my quest to recreate beloved restaurant dishes, perfecting these dumplings became a passion. The first time I achieved that perfect texture, I knew I'd captured the essence of the original.

Essential Ingredients Guide

  • Chicken: Choose boneless breasts for clean flavor
  • Flour: All-purpose creates ideal dumpling texture
  • Broth: Rich stock forms flavorful base
  • Milk: Whole milk ensures tender dumplings
  • Celery: Adds aromatic depth to broth
  • Fresh Herbs: Optional for color and flavor

Creating Dumpling Magic

Build The Base:
Simmer aromatics for flavorful broth.
Cook The Chicken:
Poach gently for tender results.
Master The Dumplings:
Mix and roll with careful attention.
Add With Care:
Drop dumplings slowly into simmering broth.
Finish With Style:
Shred chicken and combine all elements.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe Save
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe | kitchenscroll.com

My grandmother always said, 'Patience makes perfect dumplings.' After countless pots, this wisdom proves especially true with this recipe.

Enhance Your Experience

Serve in deep bowls with fresh black pepper and optional parsley. For complete comfort, add buttermilk biscuits on the side.

Creative Variations

Transform this dish by using turkey, adding vegetables, or incorporating fresh herbs. For lighter version, try using chicken thighs and low-fat milk.

Storage Success

Store in airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on stovetop, adding broth if needed to restore consistency.

Through years of perfecting this recipe, I've discovered that success lies in attention to detail. When each step is executed with care, the result is a dish that rivals the restaurant original.

Close-up Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Save
Close-up Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings | kitchenscroll.com

Common Questions About Cooking

→ Why are my dumplings tough?
Don't overmix the dough or they'll get tough. Mix just until ingredients come together and handle gently.
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, skip the chicken cooking step and add shredded rotisserie chicken when adding the dumplings.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but dumplings might be softer when thawed. Reheat gently to prevent them from breaking apart.
→ Why isn't my broth thickening?
Keep at a steady simmer and be patient. The flour from the dumplings will naturally thicken the broth.
→ Can I make the dumplings ahead?
Best to make them fresh. Pre-cut dough can dry out and won't cook properly in the broth.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Tender chicken and homemade dumplings in savory broth. A classic comfort food dinner that's easier than you think.

Preparation Time
5 minutes
Cooking Duration
35 minutes
Total Time Required
40 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Dinner Delights

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: American

Recipe Output: 6 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences: ~

What You'll Gather

→ Broth Base

Contains 01 items 6 cups chicken broth
Contains 02 items 2 celery ribs, halved
Contains 03 items 1/2 medium onion, left whole
Contains 04 items 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved

→ Dumplings

Contains 05 items 3 cups all-purpose flour
Contains 06 items 1 tablespoon baking powder
Contains 07 items 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
Contains 08 items 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk

→ Seasoning

Contains 09 items Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Combine chicken broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts in a large stockpot or Dutch oven.

Step 02

Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer. Cover partially and cook about 15 minutes until chicken is done.

Step 03

Mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk until dough forms. Roll out on floured surface to 1/4 inch thick and cut into 1-2 inch rectangles.

Step 04

Remove cooked chicken, celery, and onion from pot. Discard vegetables and shred chicken.

Step 05

Drop dough pieces into simmering broth. Cook 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dumplings are done and broth thickens.

Step 06

Return shredded chicken to pot. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Important Tips

  1. Keep broth at a gentle simmer to prevent dumplings from breaking
  2. Don't overmix dumpling dough or they'll become tough

Essential Tools

  • Large stockpot or Dutch oven
  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Mixing bowl

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Dairy
  • Wheat

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 380
  • Fat Amount: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Protein Amount: 32 g