There’s a certain kind of comfort found in a warm, hearty meal – one that wraps you in nostalgia and satisfaction with every bite. Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings is just that kind of classic dish, a timeless comfort meal that has earned its place at teh heart of Southern cuisine. With tender chicken nestled in rich, savory broth and soft, pillowy dumplings, this dish invites you to slow down and savor simple, soulful flavors. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings offers a taste of home that never goes out of style.
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is more than just a comforting Southern staple; it carries a warm legacy steeped in home-cooked goodness and nostalgia. Originating as a hearty recipe served in the beloved Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, this dish embodies the soul of Southern comfort food with tender shredded chicken, silky dumplings, and a rich, creamy broth that’s been perfected over generations.
Prep and Cook Time
- Readiness: 25 minutes
- Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Yield
- serves 6 hearty portions
Difficulty Level
- Medium – perfect for cooks with some foundational skills aiming to impress
Ingredients
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (for maximum flavor)
- 8 cups chicken broth, preferably low sodium
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for dumplings)
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Simmer the Chicken: In a large heavy-bottomed pot, add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil,then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45 minutes, or until chicken is tender and easily pulls apart.
- Prepare the dumpling Dough: While the chicken simmers, combine sifted flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir in milk and melted butter until a soft dough forms-avoid overmixing to keep dumplings tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove chicken thighs from broth and set aside to cool. Discard bay leaves. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat finely, discarding bones and skin.
- Strain and Return Broth: For a silky broth, strain out the vegetables or gently mash some for thicker texture, if desired. Return broth to the pot over medium heat.
- Add Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly into the simmering broth-aim for 1 to 1¼ inch-sized dumplings. Cover pot and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes,avoiding lifting the lid to ensure fluffy dumplings.
- Incorporate Shredded Chicken: Gently fold shredded chicken back into the broth with dumplings. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pot just before serving to add vibrant color and fresh notes.
Tips for Perfecting Your Own Chicken and Dumplings at Home
- Use dark meat chicken: Thighs retain moisture and impart richer flavor compared to breasts.
- Simmer gently: A slow simmer helps the broth develop depth without cloudy texture.
- Don’t over-handle dumpling dough: Overmixing activates gluten which can make dumplings tough.
- Cover while cooking dumplings: Steaming is crucial for light, fluffy results.
- Make ahead: Prepare the broth and shredded chicken in advance; add dumplings just before mealtime to keep freshness.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Classic Comfort Meal
To turn this Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe into a full Southern-inspired feast, serve alongside crisp green beans or sautéed kale for greenery that balances the richness. A side of warm cornbread or buttermilk biscuits adds textural contrast that’s irresistible. A bright cucumber salad with vinegar dressing can provide a refreshing palate cleanser. For an elegant touch, a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving enhances every bite.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
For more Southern-inspired comfort dishes, explore our complete Southern Classics Menus.To deepen your understanding of traditional dumpling techniques,visit this expert guide on Serious Eats.
Q&A
Q&A: Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings – A Classic Comfort Meal
Q: What makes Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings a classic comfort meal?
A: Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings embodies home-style cooking at its finest. The dish combines tender, slow-cooked chicken with fluffy, hearty dumplings bathed in a rich, savory broth. Its warmth and simplicity evoke a sense of nostalgia, making it a timeless comfort food that appeals to all generations.
Q: How is the chicken prepared in this dish?
A: The chicken is typically simmered gently to retain its moisture and tenderness. This slow-cooking process allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in a juicy, flavorful meat that melds seamlessly with the creamy, thickened broth.
Q: What sets the dumplings apart in Cracker Barrel’s version?
A: The dumplings are soft yet considerable, crafted to absorb the savory broth without falling apart. Their pillowy texture provides a perfect contrast to the tender chicken, creating a satisfying bite every time.
Q: Is Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings healthy?
A: While the dish is hearty and filling, it balances protein and carbohydrates well. Though, given its richness and use of creamy broth, it is indeed best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence within a varied diet.
Q: Can you enjoy this meal year-round or is it seasonal?
A: Although Chicken and Dumplings are especially comforting during colder months, their popularity means thay’re enjoyed year-round at Cracker Barrel. The dish’s homely warmth makes it a favorite any time you crave something soothing and satisfying.
Q: How does this dish reflect Southern culinary traditions?
A: Chicken and Dumplings are a staple in Southern cooking, representing resourcefulness and comfort. Cracker Barrel stays true to this tradition with a recipe that highlights simple,rustic ingredients combined to create a deeply flavorful and nourishing meal.
Q: What sides typically accompany Chicken and dumplings at Cracker barrel?
A: Classic Southern sides like turnip greens, fried okra, or mashed potatoes frequently enough complement the dish. These sides enhance the meal’s hearty, down-home feel, rounding out the plate with a variety of textures and flavors.
Q: Can you make a similar version of Cracker Barrel’s Chicken and Dumplings at home?
A: Absolutely! With patience and the right ingredients-fresh chicken, simple dumpling dough, and a well-seasoned broth-you can recreate that iconic comfort in your own kitchen. Many home cooks capture the spirit of Cracker Barrel’s dish by slow-simmering chicken and crafting tender dumplings from scratch.
Q: Why does chicken and Dumplings hold such a special place in American comfort food?
A: Its combination of readily available ingredients, straightforward preparation, and soul-soothing flavor make Chicken and Dumplings a dish that transcends regions and generations. It’s a culinary hug, reminding us of family, warmth, and home with every bite.
Key Takeaways
Whether you’re seeking a taste of nostalgic comfort or simply craving a hearty, home-style dish, Cracker Barrel’s chicken and dumplings stand as a warm reminder of the timeless appeal found in a simple, well-crafted meal. From the tender chicken to the fluffy dumplings bathed in savory broth, this classic comfort food invites you to slow down and savor each bite-a culinary hug that never goes out of style.In a world of fast fixes, sometimes the best comfort comes from a bowl that feels like home.
