Go Back

Homestyle Chicken and Dumplings (Cracker Barrel Copycat)

One bite, and you’ll be hooked on this nostalgic classic!
Print Pin
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Homestyle Chicken and Dumplings (Cracker Barrel Copycat)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Notes

Ingredients 

For the Chicken and Broth:

  • 6 cups chicken broth – forms the base of the rich, savory broth.
  • 2 celery stalks, halved – adds a subtle earthy flavor.
  • 1/2 medium onion, left as a chunk – enhances the broth’s depth.
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved – provides tender, shredded chicken.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – seasons the dish perfectly.

For the Dumplings:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour – gives the dumplings structure.
  • 1 Tbsp baking powder – makes the dumplings light and fluffy.
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt – enhances the dough’s flavor.
  • 1 cup + 2 Tbsp milk – brings the dough together for a tender texture.
 

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken
    In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth, celery, onion, and chicken breasts.
    Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, partially covered, for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
  2. Prepare the Dumplings
    While the chicken is cooking, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
    Gradually stir in the milk until the dough forms a rough, shaggy texture.
  3. Roll and Cut the Dumplings
    Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
    Use a pizza cutter or knife to slice it into strips or squares, approximately 1 to 2 inches in size.
  4. Remove the Chicken and Vegetables
    Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a cutting board.
    Discard the onion and celery.
  5. Cook the Dumplings
    Add the dough pieces to the simmering broth and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dumplings are tender and the broth thickens to a gravy-like consistency.
  6. Shred the Chicken
    While the dumplings simmer, shred or chop the chicken, then return it to the pot.
  7. Season and Serve
    Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
    Serve warm and enjoy!
 

Notes

  • If using pre-cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken), simmer the broth with the onion, celery, and dumplings at the same time.
  • Remove the onion and celery, then add the shredded chicken during the last 5 minutes to warm through.
 

Nutrition
Calories: 418kcal | Carbohydrates: 51g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 1778mg | Potassium: 512mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 277IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 3mg

Save