Better Than Cracker Barrel Chicken ‘n Dumplings is a rich and comforting Southern-style dish inspired by the famous homestyle meal served at Cracker Barrel. This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a flavorful broth with soft, fluffy dumplings that melt in your mouth. It delivers the same nostalgic comfort as the restaurant favorite — and even better when made fresh at home.
Cracker Barrel Chicken ‘n Dumplings:
This dish is loved for its simple ingredients and hearty flavor. The combination of slow-cooked chicken and soft dumplings creates a warm and satisfying meal that feels like traditional home cooking. Each spoonful is creamy, savory, and deeply comforting.Perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings, this homemade Chicken ‘n Dumplings recipe is easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. Once you taste this version, you may never want the restaurant version again.
History:
Chicken and dumplings is a classic Southern comfort food that dates back to early American settlers. Families created this dish using simple and affordable ingredients such as flour, chicken, and broth.Over time, the dish became a staple in Southern kitchens because it was filling and economical. Different regions developed their own styles, including rolled dumplings and drop dumplings.Today, Chicken ‘n Dumplings remains one of the most beloved comfort foods in American cuisine.
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Better Than Cracker Barrel Chicken 'n Dumplings
Ingredients
Chicken Base
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- ¾ cup milk
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot Add onion and cook for 5 minutes Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth Add shredded chicken and seasonings Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt Add melted butter and milk Stir until dough forms.
- Roll dough thin Cut into small squares or strips.
- Drop dumplings into simmering broth Cook 15 minutes Stir occasionally.
- Add milk or cream if desired Simmer 5 minutes
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken saves time.
- Thin dumplings cook best.
- Fresh broth improves flavor.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking dumplings.
- Soup thickens as it cools.
- Add broth if too thick.
- Homemade dumplings taste best.
- Serve warm.
Tips for Cracker Barrel Chicken:
- Cook chicken with bones for richer broth.
- Add carrots and celery for extra flavor.
- Use buttermilk for softer dumplings.
- Roll dumplings thin for authentic texture.
- Simmer slowly for best taste.
- Add parsley for freshness.
- Season gradually.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
FAQ’s for Cracker Barrel Chicken
1. Can I use store-bought dumplings?
Yes, but homemade tastes better.
2. Can I freeze Chicken and Dumplings?
Yes, but dumplings may soften.
3. How long does it last?
Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
4. Can I use raw chicken?
Yes, cook it in broth first.
5. Why are my dumplings tough?
Too much flour or overcooking.
6. Can I make it thicker?
Add flour slurry.
7. Can I make it without cream?
Yes, broth alone works well.
8. What chicken works best?
Boneless chicken breast or thighs.
Conclusion:
Better Than Cracker Barrel Chicken ‘n Dumplings is the ultimate comfort meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Tender chicken, soft dumplings, and savory broth create a classic dish that never goes out of style.This homemade recipe is easy, hearty, and perfect for sharing with family. Once you try it, it may become your favorite comfort food recipe.