Make Cracker Barrel–style Chicken & Dumplings at home: tender chicken, fluffy rolled dumplings, and creamy broth. Easy step-by-step copycat recipe + tips.
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings Recipe Copycat
Nothing says Southern comfort food quite like a steaming bowl of Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings. With tender shredded chicken, soft rolled dumplings, and a creamy, savory broth, this dish is simple but deeply satisfying.
The good news? You don’t need to head to the restaurant to enjoy it. This copycat recipe walks you through how to make Cracker Barrel–style dumplings right at home.
Why This Copycat Recipe Works
Cracker Barrel’s dumplings are different from the drop-style dumplings you might know. They’re rolled flat, cut into strips, and simmered in broth until pillowy but hearty.
Combine that with a lightly thickened chicken broth, and you get a one-pot meal that’s both rustic and indulgent.
This recipe captures all those restaurant flavors while letting you control the ingredients and seasoning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a clear breakdown of the main ingredients for this recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | 3 cups, shredded | Poached, rotisserie, or leftover chicken |
| Chicken stock | 6 cups | Homemade or store-bought |
| Onion | 1 cup, diced | Yellow or white onion |
| Carrots | 1 cup, diced | Adds sweetness |
| Celery | 1 cup, diced | Adds depth of flavor |
| Flour | 2 cups | For dumpling dough |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp | Helps dumplings rise |
| Salt | ½ tsp + to taste | Adjust as needed |
| Butter | 3 tbsp | Cold, cut into flour |
| Milk | ¾ cup | Or buttermilk |
| Cream or slurry (optional) | ½ cup | For creamy finish |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | 2 tbsp | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cook chicken until tender: poach in broth for ~20 minutes, pressure cook for 12 minutes, or shred rotisserie chicken. Set aside.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Sauté onion, carrot, and celery in butter or oil until softened. Add chicken stock and season. Let simmer 10–15 minutes to build flavor. For creaminess, stir in cream or a cornstarch slurry.
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough
Mix flour, baking powder, salt, butter, and milk. Knead gently until just combined. Roll dough to ¼-inch thick and cut into strips with a knife or pizza cutter.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Bring broth to a simmer. Drop dumpling strips one at a time, stirring occasionally. Simmer uncovered 10–12 minutes until dumplings are tender.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Finish
Return shredded chicken to the pot, stir gently, and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Variations & Add-ins
One of the best parts of this Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings copycat recipe is how easily you can customize it. For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary.
Boost nutrition by mixing in vegetables such as carrots, celery, peas, or green beans. Swap traditional dumplings with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends for dietary needs. If you prefer richer flavor, stir in a little cream or cheddar cheese.
For a lighter version, use skinless chicken breast and reduce butter. Each tweak keeps the dish comforting yet unique.
Tips for Perfect Dumplings
- Simmer, don’t boil — prevents gummy or broken dumplings.
- Don’t overmix the dough — too much mixing = dense dumplings.
- Roll evenly — dumplings should be the same thickness.
- Freeze dumplings ahead — lay flat on a tray, then bag for later.
Storing & Reheating
| Storage Method | How Long | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3–4 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Best to freeze broth and chicken without dumplings |
| Reheating | Until warmed | Add splash of broth/water if too thick |
Serving Ideas
Serve this Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings with fluffy biscuits or buttery cornbread for a true Southern experience. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
For heartier meals, add mashed potatoes, collard greens, or roasted carrots. Whether you’re hosting family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these sides make the dish feel even more comforting and complete.
Nutrition & Health Benefits (Per Serving, Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 380 | Provides steady energy without being overly heavy, making it a balanced comfort meal. |
| Protein | 28g | Supports muscle repair, keeps you fuller longer, and makes this dish hearty and satisfying. |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | Fuel for the body and brain; dumplings provide comforting energy. |
| Fat | 14g | Adds richness and flavor, helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins. |
This dish offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats, making it both nourishing and comforting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it’s a time-saving shortcut with lots of flavor.
Why are my dumplings tough?
Overworking dough or boiling too hard are the main culprits. Handle gently.
Can I make this in the Instant Pot?
Yes — cook chicken and broth on pressure mode, then switch to sauté for dumplings.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, but freeze broth and chicken separately. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
