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CRACKER BARREL CHICKEN AND DUMPLINGS

This creamy Cracker Barrel chicken and dumplings recipe features tender chicken, flat homemade dumplings, and rich savory broth.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Dumplings:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

Instructions
 

  • 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.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through to 165°F.
  • Remove chicken from the pot and shred into large pieces using two forks.
  • Whisk 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.
  • In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the melted butter and milk and stir until a soft dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll to ⅛ inch thickness. Cut into 1×2-inch strips.
  • Return the 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.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Do not overwork the dumpling dough or the dumplings will be tough.
  • Roll dumplings thin — about ⅛ inch — for the best soft, chewy texture.
  • A rotisserie chicken can be substituted for the raw chicken to save time.
  • Add a splash of chicken broth when reheating leftovers to loosen the consistency.