Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings (Copycat Recipe)
Classic Southern comfort food – a rich, hearty bowl of Cracker Barrel-style chicken and dumplings made from scratch!
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the dumplings: In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir in milk and melted butter until a dough forms.
- Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into small rectangles or squares (about 1-inch pieces).
- Bring the broth back to a gentle boil. Drop the dumplings in one at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir to combine. Simmer for another 5 minutes until thickened.
- Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Notes
For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or butter before serving. This dish pairs perfectly with cornbread or steamed vegetables!