Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
This copycat Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe tastes just like the restaurant original! Featuring tender flat dumplings swimming in rich, thick gravy with juicy chicken pieces, this homemade version captures that iconic comfort food experience. The secret lies in the rolled dumplings and gentle simmering technique that creates the signature texture everyone loves.
Ingredients
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1¼ teaspoons salt
- 1 cup whole milk plus 2 tablespoons
For the Base
- 2-3 cups cooked chicken breast torn or cubed into bite-sized pieces
- 6 cups chicken broth preferably low-sodium
- ½ teaspoon black pepper optional, to taste
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the broth: Pour the 6 cups of chicken broth into a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. You want small bubbles breaking the surface, not a rolling boil. Maintain this temperature throughout cooking.
- Make the dumpling dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk all at once. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, stir until the mixture comes together into a shaggy dough. Don't overmix - some flour streaks are fine. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Rest the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the flour to fully hydrate and the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll and resulting in more tender dumplings.
- Roll and cut the dumplings: Generously flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Dust the top with more flour. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out to an even ½-inch thickness - this exact thickness is key to authentic texture. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the dough into approximately ½-inch squares. Don't worry about perfect uniformity; rustic squares are authentic.
- Cook the dumplings: Drop the dumpling squares one by one into the gently simmering broth, stirring gently after every few additions to prevent sticking. Once all dumplings are in, reduce heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer (not a boil). Stir frequently - every 3-5 minutes - to prevent sticking to the bottom. Simmer uncovered for 25 minutes. The broth will thicken considerably as the dumplings release their starch.
- Add the chicken: After 25 minutes, when dumplings are tender and broth is beautifully thickened, gently stir in the cooked chicken pieces. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add black pepper, additional salt, poultry seasoning, or fresh herbs to your preference. The dish will continue to thicken as it sits. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Ladle into bowls and enjoy immediately for the best texture.
Notes
Chef's Tips for Perfect Dumplings:
- Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. Just shred the meat and discard the skin.
- Temperature matters: Keep the broth at a gentle simmer, never a rolling boil. Too much heat will tear the dumplings apart and make them tough.
- Flour generously: The dough is intentionally sticky. Don't be shy with the flour when rolling to prevent frustration.
- Don't stack dumplings: Keep cut dumplings separated on your floured board until ready to cook.
- Stir frequently: Set a timer for every 5 minutes to remind yourself to stir and prevent sticking.
- Consistency adjustments: The dish thickens as it cools. If too thick, thin with extra broth or water when reheating.
Variations:
- Creamy version: Replace 1 cup of broth with heavy cream or half-and-half during the last 10 minutes.
- With vegetables: Add sautéed diced carrots, celery, and onions. Stir in frozen peas at the end.
- Herb variations: Try fresh thyme, sage, or dill for different flavor profiles.