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Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A comforting Southern dish featuring tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a creamy broth that feels like a warm hug from Grandma.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs Use organic for better flavor.
  • 6 cups chicken broth Homemade stock is preferred.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
Dumpling Base
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
  • 1 tbsp baking powder Ensure gluten-free if needed.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup whole milk Can be replaced with low-fat dairy.
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Add the chicken to a large pot and pour in the chicken broth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  3. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred into large pieces using two forks.
Making the Broth
  1. Whisk in the cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, and butter into the hot broth until smooth. Keep the pot at a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Dumpling Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter and milk. Stir until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix.
  2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into strips measuring 1×2 inches.
Cooking
  1. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Drop the dumpling strips one at a time into the simmering broth, stirring gently. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dumplings are cooked through and broth has thickened.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot!

Notes

For a visually appealing presentation, serve in rustic bowls with chopped parsley sprinkled on top. Pair with a light, refreshing drink like iced tea or a crisp white wine. Store leftovers, freeze them in airtight containers for up to 3 months.