Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup

Introduction

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup. Rich, creamy, and deeply comforting, this southern-inspired dish brings together tender chicken, a velvety broth, and pillowy dumplings that soak up every bit of flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, perfect for family dinners or when you need a dose of nostalgic comfort food. With simple pantry ingredients and a straightforward process, you can recreate this beloved classic right at home.

My recipe story

Growing up, one of my fondest memories was visiting Cracker Barrel on road trips. While my siblings were always tempted by the breakfast platters, I found myself gravitating toward their Chicken and Dumpling Soup. It had that perfect blend of richness and simplicity—just like something grandma would have made. Over the years, I set out to perfect a homemade version that delivers the same cozy charm without needing a restaurant visit. After plenty of testing in my own kitchen, I landed on this recipe that not only matches the nostalgic taste but also makes the whole house smell heavenly as it simmers away.

Ingredient breakdown

This recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredient list. For the dumplings, we rely on all-purpose flour, a touch of baking powder, and cold salted butter. These simple staples create that tender, fluffy texture we crave in a dumpling. The butter’s chill is crucial—it melts during cooking, creating delicate layers and pockets of softness.

For the soup itself, chicken is the star. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best, as they cook quickly and shred beautifully. The broth base is made with chicken stock, onions, carrots, and celery, giving it that classic depth of flavor. A splash of cream or milk at the end enriches the soup, making it velvety smooth and comforting. Together, these ingredients create harmony: the savory broth balances the rich dumplings for a dish that feels indulgent yet homey.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin and sharp knife (for dumplings)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving

Step-by-step directions

1. Prepare the chicken: In a large pot, add your chicken pieces, diced onions, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper. Cover with chicken stock and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 25–30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set aside.
2. Make the dumpling dough: While the soup base simmers, combine flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add milk, mixing until a soft dough forms. Avoid overworking the dough to keep dumplings light and fluffy.
3. Shape the dumplings: Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Slice into strips or squares, depending on your preference. Lay them on a floured plate to prevent sticking.
4. Add dumplings to soup: Return the shredded chicken to the simmering broth. Gently drop dumplings into the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping. Cover and let cook for 15–20 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through and tender.
5. Finish the soup: For a richer texture, stir in a splash of cream or whole milk at the end. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

Variations & substitutions

This Cracker Barrel-inspired soup is versatile and can be adapted to fit your taste or dietary needs. For a healthier twist, swap all-purpose flour for a whole wheat or gluten-free blend. Add extra vegetables such as peas, green beans, or mushrooms for a heartier meal. Prefer dark meat? Chicken thighs bring an extra level of richness. If you want to make it dairy-free, use olive oil in the dumpling dough and almond or oat milk in place of cream for finishing the soup. Each variation keeps the core comforting essence intact while adding a personal spin.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

Leftover chicken and dumpling soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The dumplings may soften as they sit, but the flavors deepen, making it even more delicious the next day. For freezing, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. If you want to prep ahead, make the broth and dumpling dough separately, storing them in the fridge until ready to cook fresh.

Serving ideas & pairings

This cozy soup pairs wonderfully with warm buttermilk biscuits or a side of cornbread. For a lighter option, serve it with a crisp garden salad tossed in vinaigrette to balance out the richness. A glass of sweet iced tea or even a light white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully. And for dessert? Nothing says southern comfort quite like a slice of warm apple pie or peach cobbler to round out the meal.

FAQ

• Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes! Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quicker and still delicious—just skip the initial cooking step and add shredded chicken at the end.
• What if I don’t have cream? Whole milk works perfectly. For an extra indulgent option, half-and-half is a great substitute.
• How do I know when dumplings are done? Dumplings should be fluffy and no longer doughy in the center after simmering for 15–20 minutes.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely. Use a gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings and ensure your broth is gluten-free as well.
• What herbs work best in this soup? Fresh parsley, thyme, or even a touch of sage complement the flavors beautifully without overpowering them.

Final thoughts

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s a reminder of simple comforts, shared meals, and flavors that bring people together. Whether you’re cooking it for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish has a way of making the table feel a little warmer and more inviting. With its tender chicken, silky broth, and soft dumplings, it’s sure to become a staple in your home just as it has in mine. So the next time you crave something hearty and nostalgic, skip the drive and bring the taste of Cracker Barrel right into your kitchen.

Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A cozy, hearty soup with tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth. Perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons cold salted butter
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 8 cups chicken stock
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk

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Instructions

1. Place chicken, onion, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper in a large pot. Cover with chicken stock and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked. Remove and shred the chicken. 
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Stir in milk until a soft dough forms. 
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into strips or squares and set aside. 
4. Return shredded chicken to the simmering broth. Drop dumplings into the pot, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cover and cook 15–20 minutes until dumplings are fluffy. 
5. Stir in cream or milk, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. For freezing, store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk. Serve with biscuits, cornbread, or a light salad.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American