If you are craving a comforting, soul-warming dish that feels like a big, cozy hug from the inside, then you are going to absolutely adore this Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe. This hearty, nostalgic classic features tender chicken simmered in rich broth with fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings, delivering a perfect balance of savory goodness and satisfying texture. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a time you want to spoil yourself, this recipe promises to bring warmth and smiles to your table with every delicious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is really in its simplicity. Each ingredient is straightforward but plays a vital role in creating that luscious flavor and perfect texture that define this dish. From the fresh vegetables that add subtle sweetness to the fluffy dumplings that soak up all the savory broth, these ingredients come together harmoniously to give you a meal that feels like a homemade treasure.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The flavorful base that infuses every spoonful with rich, comforting taste.
- 2 celery ribs: Adds a delicate crunch and fresh depth to the broth as it simmers.
- ½ medium onion: Brings natural sweetness and aromatic warmth to the dish.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein cooked to perfection and shredded for that classic texture.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of tender, fluffy dumplings that are the highlight of the recipe.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise beautifully, giving them a light, airy feel.
- 1¼ tsp salt: Essential for seasoning both the dumplings and broth to bring out all the flavors.
- 1 cup plus 2 tbsp milk: Moistens the dumpling dough, creating softness and a creamy bite.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.
How to Make Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Simmer Your Chicken and Aromatics
Start by placing the chicken broth, celery ribs, half an onion, and chicken breasts into a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring everything to a gentle boil over medium heat, then lower the heat and let it all simmer for about 15 minutes. This slow simmer lets the chicken cook thoroughly while the celery and onion release their delicate flavors, creating a broth that’s deeply flavorful and the perfect cozy foundation for the dumplings.
Step 2: Whip Up the Dumpling Dough
While your chicken cooks, take a moment to prepare the dumpling dough. In a bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the milk and stir until the dough comes together into a soft yet workable mixture. This dough is the heart of your dumplings — it should be tender enough to cook through quickly but sturdy enough to hold its shape in the broth.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dumplings
Dust your work surface with flour and roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness. Then cut the dough into strips or square pieces—whichever shape you prefer! These pieces will puff up beautifully once dropped into the hot broth, so don’t worry if they’re not perfectly uniform; each bite will be deliciously tender and hearty.
Step 4: Remove Chicken and Drop in Dumplings
Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the pot and discard the celery and onion. Now, carefully add the cut dumpling pieces into the simmering broth, stirring gently to prevent them from sticking together. This is where the magic happens—dumplings will slowly absorb the flavorful broth, becoming wonderfully soft and comforting.
Step 5: Simmer Until Dumplings Are Perfectly Cooked
Let the dumplings cook for 20 to 30 minutes, simmering gently until they are tender and cooked through. Meanwhile, shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. When the dumplings are ready, add the shredded chicken back into the pot to mingle with the warm, supple dumplings and savory broth.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed. This final touch brings all the flavors into perfect harmony, making your Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe ready to be enjoyed as a comforting, soul-satisfying meal.
How to Serve Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a subtle herbaceous note that lifts the hearty flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, a little cracked black pepper on top can add a gentle spice that enhances every spoonful beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish stands wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider classic southern sides like buttered green beans, honey-glazed carrots, or a crisp garden salad. These bring freshness and crunch to contrast the softness of the dumplings perfectly. For a special touch, warm some crusty bread to soak up the luscious broth.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the chicken and dumplings in rustic bowls with a small ramekin of extra parsley on the side. You can also top it with a dollop of creamy sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for a comforting twist. Playing with textures and garnishes can make this beloved dish feel new every time you make it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your chicken and dumplings cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this dish will keep for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors again without sacrificing freshness or texture.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch for later, freezing is an excellent option. Place your cooled chicken and dumplings into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that dumplings may slightly change texture after freezing but will still be delicious and nourishing.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator or simply warm refrigerated leftovers in a pot over low heat. Stir gently and add a splash of chicken broth or water if the dumplings have absorbed too much liquid to restore that creamy consistency you love.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and are even a bit more forgiving in keeping the meat juicy and flavorful during the simmering process. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if they are bone-in.
Is there an alternative to all-purpose flour for the dumplings?
While all-purpose flour gives the best texture, you can try a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, and you may need to adjust the liquid ratio.
Can I make the dumplings smaller or bigger?
Yes, the size is really up to you! Smaller dumplings will cook a bit faster and feel more like pillows, while larger ones offer a chewier, heartier bite. Just keep the cooking time in mind.
Do I have to remove the celery and onion after cooking?
Removing celery and onion is recommended to keep the broth clear and focused on the chicken flavor, but if you prefer, you can finely chop them and return some to the pot for extra texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep or batch cooking?
Definitely! This Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe shines as a meal prep option because it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day when flavors have melded.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe. It’s an embrace in a bowl, bringing together simple, wholesome ingredients to craft a meal that’s universally comforting and deeply satisfying. Don’t hesitate to try this classic yourself—you’ll find it quickly becomes a family favorite that you’ll turn to again and again whenever you need a taste of home-cooked love.
Print
Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Enjoy a comforting homemade version of Cracker Barrel-style chicken and dumplings, featuring tender chicken cooked in a flavorful broth with fluffy, homemade dumplings. This hearty dish combines simple ingredients for a classic Southern comfort meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Broth and Chicken
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 celery ribs
- ½ medium onion
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
Dumplings
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup plus 2 tbsp milk
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, celery ribs, onion, and chicken breasts. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Prepare the dumpling dough: While the chicken cooks, in a bowl mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir in the milk until a dough forms that is soft yet manageable.
- Shape the dumplings: Roll out the dumpling dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut the dough into strips or squares according to your preference.
- Remove chicken and add dumplings: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside. Discard the celery and onion from the broth. Drop the dumpling pieces into the simmering broth and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cook the dumplings and shred chicken: Let the dumplings simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes until they are cooked through and tender. Meanwhile, shred the cooked chicken and return it to the pot with the dumplings.
- Season and serve: Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use fresh parsley for garnish to add brightness and color.
- Ensure the dumpling dough is not too sticky; add a teaspoon of flour if needed while rolling out.
- Simmer dumplings gently to avoid them breaking apart.
- You can substitute chicken broth with homemade stock for deeper flavor.
- This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
