Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

A Taste of Southern Comfort: The History and Origin

If you’ve ever been to Cracker Barrel, you probably know the comfort that comes with their iconic Chicken and Dumplings. It’s a dish that embodies Southern charm, bringing the warmth of a home-cooked meal right to your plate. Originating from traditional Appalachian cuisine, chicken and dumplings have a long history of being a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for feeding families. The recipe evolved from basic ingredients available on most farms—flour, chicken, and simple seasoning—making it a staple in American households for generations.

Cracker Barrel has managed to turn this classic dish into one of their signature menu items, drawing in patrons for the comforting taste of tender chicken and fluffy dumplings swimming in rich, savory gravy. This copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe is the perfect way to bring that same cozy, comforting meal into your own kitchen.

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Why You Should Try This Copycat Recipe

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe is worth trying out for its simplicity and the nostalgic comfort it brings. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and flavorful broth makes this dish the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re missing the warmth of a Cracker Barrel meal or simply looking for a hearty dish to serve on a cold day, this chicken and dumpling recipe is sure to satisfy. Not only is it easy to make, but it also allows you to save time by using pre-cooked chicken, making this recipe as convenient as it is delicious.

My Personal Story with Chicken and Dumplings

I remember the first time I tasted Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings. I was on a road trip with my family, and we stopped at a Cracker Barrel along the way. It was the perfect antidote to the long hours on the road—warm, hearty, and satisfying. Ever since, I’ve been trying to recreate that same comforting experience at home. After experimenting with different versions, I finally found a recipe that brings back those same flavors, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Ingredients, Tools, and Special Preparation

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breast (or use pre-cooked/rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped (optional)

Tools:

• Large stock pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Rolling pin
• Pizza cutter
• Mixing bowl
• Airtight container (for leftovers)

Special Preparation Tips:

• If using pre-cooked chicken, simply shred it before adding it to the broth to save time.
• Make sure the buttermilk is cold, as this will help create fluffy dumplings.

My Experience Making This Recipe

I’ve made this copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe many times, tweaking it slightly each time to make it just right. One thing I’ve learned is that using cold buttermilk for the dumpling dough is key to getting those fluffy dumplings. I’ve also found that shredding pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, and it adds a lot of flavor to the dish. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of that cozy, welcoming feeling I had during that first road trip stop.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

1. Prepare the Broth: In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, add the chicken broth, celery, onion, and carrots (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: If you’re using raw chicken breast, add it to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Take the chicken out of the pot and allow it to cool slightly before shredding it.
3. Prepare the Dumplings: As the chicken cooks, start making the dumpling dough. Mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together in a mixing bowl. Slowly add in the buttermilk and cold water, stirring until a dough forms. Place the dough on a floured surface and roll it out to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into small, rectangular dumplings.
4. Cooking the Dumplings: Return the broth to a gentle boil. Drop the dumplings into the simmering broth, a few at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Let the dumplings cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender and cooked through.
5. Add the Chicken: Shred the cooked chicken breast and add it back into the pot with the dumplings. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes to thicken the broth and meld the flavors.
6. Add Seasoning and Serve: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. Serve while hot, and savor the comforting flavors of this hearty meal.

Tips for Variations and Substitutions

• Make It Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like green beans or peas to make the dish even heartier.
• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: If you’re short on time, using a rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds plenty of flavor.
• Instant Pot Version: This recipe can also be made in an Instant Pot to save time. Simply cook the chicken and broth on high pressure for 10 minutes, release the pressure, and then add the dumplings.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
   • Yes! You can prepare the dumpling dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
2. Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings?
   • Definitely! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
3. How do I reheat Chicken and Dumplings?
   • Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a bit of extra broth if needed to keep the consistency right.
4. Can I use bone-in chicken?
   • Yes, bone-in chicken will add more flavor to the broth. Just be sure to remove the bones before shredding the chicken.
5. How can I make the dumplings fluffier?
   • Using cold buttermilk and not overmixing the dough are key to getting fluffy dumplings.

Conclusion

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe brings the comfort and warmth of a classic Southern dish right into your kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re recreating fond memories of a Cracker Barrel visit or just in the mood for some cozy comfort food, this recipe is sure to deliver.

Recipe Card

• Recipe Name: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
• Ingredients:
  1. 2 lbs chicken breast
  2. 8 cups chicken broth
  3. 2 cups all-purpose flour
  4. 2 tsp baking powder
  5. 1/2 cup buttermilk
  6. 1/4 cup cold water
  7. 1 tsp salt
  8. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  9. 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  10. 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  11. 2 carrots, finely chopped (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Prepare the broth with celery, onion, and carrots.
  2. Cook the chicken breast in the broth, then shred it.
  3. Make the dumpling dough with flour, baking powder, salt, buttermilk, and water.
  4. Roll out and cut the dough into dumplings.
  5. Cook the dumplings in the broth, then add shredded chicken.
  6. Season and serve.
• Tips: Use pre-cooked chicken for convenience, and add extra veggies for a heartier dish.