Description

This recipe brings the comfort and nostalgia of Cracker Barrel’s famous Chicken and Dumplings to your home kitchen. Tender, shredded chicken is paired with fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth, creating a heartwarming dish that’s perfect for family meals, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Simple ingredients and a straightforward method make this a go-to recipe that anyone can master.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Broth:

6 cups chicken broth
2 celery ribs, halved
1 medium onion, halved
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb each)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 ¼ teaspoons salt (divided)
1 cup + 2 tablespoons milk

Optional Additions:

Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme) for garnish
2 tablespoons butter for a richer broth

Instructions

Prepare the Broth:

In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth, celery, and onion to a simmer over medium heat.
Add the chicken breasts and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the broth and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Strain the broth, discarding the celery and onion, and return the liquid to the pot.

Prepare the Dumplings:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
On a floured surface, roll the dough out to ¼ inch thickness. Cut into 1-2 inch squares.

Cook the Dumplings:

Bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Add the dumplings one at a time, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cover the pot and cook the dumplings for 15 minutes, stirring gently every few minutes.

Finish the Dish:

Add the shredded chicken back into the pot with the dumplings and stir to combine.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a richer flavor, stir in the butter.
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like cornbread or creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve it alongside green beans, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables to balance the meal.

Notes

For a time-saving shortcut, use rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken instead of boiling fresh chicken breasts.
For thicker broth, mix 2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the simmering broth before adding the dumplings.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed.