cracker barrel chicken and dumplings recipe
The Best cracker barrel chicken and dumplings recipe
Oh, there’s nothing quite like Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings for making a meal feel like home—especially on a chilly evening when the kids are still in pajamas and the whole house smells like comfort food. I first fell in love with this recipe years ago when my mom used to make it for Sunday dinners, and now my own kids—eight, ten, and twelve—will eat it straight from the pot with their hands if I let them. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but also surprisingly balanced, with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth that’s not too heavy. My family loves it because it’s comforting without being boring, and it’s something we can pull together in one pot without much fuss. Plus, it’s not just a meal—it’s a tradition. Whether it’s for a holiday dinner, a lazy weekend brunch, or just a regular night when we all need something warm and satisfying, this recipe never lets me down.
What I love most about this recipe is how it’s packed with real, wholesome ingredients that still taste like pure comfort. The chicken is slow-cooked until it falls apart easily, and the dumplings—made with buttermilk and flour—are light and airy, not dense or heavy. It’s a great way to use up leftovers in a new way, and the broth is so flavorful it feels like a meal all on its own. My kids have actually started asking for it at school lunches because it’s so good, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve done something special, even if it’s just boiling some broth and tossing in some chicken. Plus, there are health benefits too—it’s got lean protein, fiber from the dumplings, and all the vitamins from the vegetables you can add in. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to enjoy food that’s nourishing and full of love.
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce, served with fluffy dumplings and served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
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2 In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in chopped green onions.
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3 While the sauce is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
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4 Bring a pot of water to a boil. Drop dumpling batter into the water, one at a time, and boil for 2-3 minutes until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
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5 Peel and boil potatoes until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
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6 Return chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Spoon mashed potatoes into a serving dish, top with chicken and sauce, and arrange dumplings on top.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
- Pot
- Fork or ricer (for potatoes)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Works
This Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe is always a solid choice for family gatherings because it’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without being too heavy, and the dumplings add just the right comfort factor that people love. It’s simple to make ahead and reheats beautifully, so you can prep it on a busy weekend and still have a stress-free meal when guests arrive, making it perfect for holidays, game nights, or just regular family dinners when you want something warm and familiar. Plus, the flavors are balanced—tender chicken, rich gravy, and fluffy dumplings all come together in a way that feels like home, no matter the occasion.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
What is the origin or inspiration behind the Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recipe?
Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort dish that draws inspiration from Southern American cuisine, particularly the traditional “chicken pot pie” style. The recipe often includes tender shredded chicken, creamy gravy, and fluffy dumplings, reflecting regional cooking traditions that emphasize hearty, comforting meals. The brand’s version may incorporate subtle twists like extra herbs, a touch of butter, or a slightly richer gravy to enhance the classic taste.
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Why does the recipe call for a roux in the preparation of the chicken and dumplings?
The roux is a foundational element in the gravy base of Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings. It’s made by cooking butter and flour together until it turns a deep golden brown color, which develops flavor and helps thicken the sauce. A proper roux adds richness, depth, and a smooth texture to the gravy, balancing the chicken and dumplings’ flavors. Without it, the dish would lack the creamy, cohesive consistency that makes this recipe so satisfying.
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How can I make the dumplings fluffier and less dense than traditional ones?
To achieve lighter, airier dumplings, follow these key tips: 1. Use a mix of flour and cornstarch (e.g., 3:1 ratio) instead of just flour to reduce gluten formation. 2. Add a splash of milk or broth when mixing the dough to help it rise. 3. Gently fold in cold butter (not melted) for a tender crumb. 4. Steam the dumplings instead of boiling—this keeps them fluffy instead of sinking. 5. Don’t overmix the dough; handle it lightly to avoid toughness.
For extra fluffiness, you can also let the dough rest for 15–20 minutes before rolling.
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Can I substitute any ingredients in the recipe, and if so, what are the best alternatives?
Yes! Here are some practical swaps for the Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings: – Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs or breasts (thighs stay juicier) or turkey for a lighter option. – Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour (reduce by 1–2 tbsp) or a 50/50 blend for nuttier flavor. – Butter: Substitute with olive oil or ghee for a dairy-free version, but note the flavor difference. – Dumplings: Use store-bought dumpling wrappers (like Pillsbury) for convenience, or make a quick version with biscuit dough. – Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth works, but homemade or reduced-sodium versions are ideal. – Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can replace dried, and a pinch of black pepper enhances depth.
Avoid swapping the roux base entirely, as it’s key for gravy thickness and flavor.
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How do I ensure the chicken stays tender and not dry when cooking it separately?
To keep chicken moist and tender: 1. Use a brine: Soak the chicken in a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and a splash of vinegar (or lemon juice) for 30 minutes before cooking. 2. Cook low and slow: Simmer the chicken in broth or water for 20–25 minutes (or until internal temp reaches 165°F/74°C) instead of frying or grilling. 3. Rest before shredding: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes after cooking to retain juices. 4. Shred gently: Use two forks to tear the meat apart—overhandling can make it tough. 5. Add acidity: A splash of white wine, vinegar, or lemon juice in the cooking liquid helps tenderize the meat.
