Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Cracker Barrel’s chicken and dumplings is the definition of Southern comfort — tender shredded chicken and pillowy, flat dumplings in a rich, creamy broth. This copycat makes them from scratch, and the dumplings thicken the broth as they cook, just like the country store. It’s pure cozy on a plate.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and comforting — the ultimate Southern comfort food.
- From-scratch dumplings — pillowy and tender, worth every minute.
- Rotisserie shortcut — use pre-cooked chicken to save time.
- Crowd-pleaser — hearty enough to feed the whole family.
The Ingredients That Matter
- A simple flour-and-buttermilk dumpling dough — rolled thin and cut into the signature flat squares.
- Cold butter — cut into the dough for tender, flaky dumplings.
- Good chicken broth — the base that the dumplings thicken into a creamy gravy.
- Shredded chicken — rotisserie keeps it juicy and quick.
How to Make It
Make the dumpling dough, roll and cut it, drop the squares into simmering broth, then stir in the chicken and milk until thick and creamy. Full steps are in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips
- Roll the dough thin and cut even squares for the authentic flat dumplings.
- Don’t overstir once the dumplings are in — they can break apart.
- The flour on the dumplings thickens the broth — that’s the Cracker Barrel signature, so don’t rinse it off.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt, cut in the cold butter, then stir in buttermilk to form a dough.
- Roll the dough thin and cut into 1-inch squares.
- Bring the broth to a simmer and drop in the dumplings one at a time. Simmer 15 minutes, stirring gently.
- Stir in the chicken and milk, season, and simmer until thick and creamy.
Notes
More Copycat Cracker Barrel
Round out the country plate with Hashbrown Casserole and Meatloaf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my dumplings tough?
Usually from overworking the dough. Mix just until it comes together and roll gently.
Can I make it ahead?
It’s best fresh, as the dumplings absorb broth over time. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.
What makes the broth creamy?
The flour on the dumplings plus a splash of milk thicken it into a rich, creamy gravy as it simmers.
