Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup

The Story Behind the Recipe

Some recipes don’t just fill your belly — they fill your heart. They remind you of home, of lazy Sunday dinners, of the clinking of spoons against bowls while laughter drifts around the table. For me, that dish has always been Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup.

If you’ve ever sat inside a Cracker Barrel on a rainy afternoon, you know exactly what I’m talking about — that warm, cozy aroma of simmering chicken broth, tender dumplings floating like little pillows, and that thick, creamy broth that wraps you up like your favorite blanket.

The first time I had this soup, I was a kid on a road trip with my family. We pulled off the highway and found a Cracker Barrel — one of those rustic spots that feels like stepping into Grandma’s kitchen. I ordered the chicken and dumplings, and one spoonful was all it took. I didn’t say a word — I just sat there, letting that warm, savory goodness melt away every ounce of tiredness from the long drive.

Years later, I decided to recreate that same soul-soothing magic right at home. After a few tries — a little more broth here, a little more butter there — I finally got it just right. The flavor was nostalgic, the dumplings tender but not mushy, and the chicken perfectly shredded into that rich, velvety broth.

And let me tell you, when you make this Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup from scratch, your whole kitchen fills with that same comforting aroma — like a memory made fresh all over again.

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What Makes This Recipe Special

This isn’t just chicken soup — it’s comfort, family, and tradition all stirred together in one pot. The Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup stands out because it’s simple but deeply flavorful. Here’s why it’s so special:

• Homemade flavor: Just like the restaurant version — thick, creamy, and soul-warming.
• Tender dumplings: Soft yet slightly chewy — they hold their shape perfectly.
• Classic Southern touch: Butter, broth, and a hint of pepper make it taste like a family heirloom.
• Simple ingredients: Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen.
• Freezer-friendly: Perfect for batch cooking or rainy-day cravings.

It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table — hungry, happy, and ready for seconds.

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

For the Chicken & Broth

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped (optional, not in traditional version but adds sweetness)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
• 1 cup water
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

For the Dumplings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed
• ¾ cup milk (whole or 2%)

Ingredient Tip: The key to authentic Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup texture is using just enough butter and milk to make soft but firm dough — it should be slightly sticky but not wet.

For Finishing Touches

• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots (if using). Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent.

Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds — just until fragrant.

Chef’s Note: The smell of this step alone will make your kitchen feel like a Cracker Barrel kitchen on a winter day!

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Step 2: Add the Chicken & Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Place the chicken breasts or thighs directly into the pot. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.

Pro Tip: Thighs give you richer flavor, but breasts make it leaner — both work beautifully for Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup.

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Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough

While the chicken cooks, make the dumplings.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Pour in the milk and stir just until a dough forms — don’t overmix. It should come together easily but not be sticky.

Granny’s Trick: Chill the dough for 10 minutes before rolling — it makes for fluffier dumplings that hold their shape.

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Step 4: Roll & Cut the Dumplings

Lightly flour your counter and roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thick. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice into small squares — roughly 1½-inch pieces.

Lay them on parchment paper until ready to cook.

Fun Tip: If you like rustic dumplings (like Cracker Barrel’s), don’t worry about perfect squares — irregular shapes add homemade charm.

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Step 5: Cook the Dumplings

Bring the broth back to a gentle boil. Drop the dumplings one by one into the simmering broth, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until the dumplings are puffed and tender.

Don’t Rush: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer, not a rapid boil — that’s how you get soft, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings like the real Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup.

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Step 6: Add Chicken & Cream

Stir the shredded chicken back into the pot. If you want a creamier broth, add heavy cream now. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Taste and adjust seasoning — a little more salt or pepper can bring everything together.

Chef’s Kiss Moment: The broth should be rich and velvety, the dumplings tender, and the chicken perfectly coated in that creamy sauce.

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Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Serve warm with biscuits, cornbread, or a slice of buttered toast.

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

This Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to make it a full country-style meal, try these pairings:

🍞 Classic Comfort

• Flaky buttermilk biscuits or buttery cornbread
• Garlic butter Texas toast for dipping

🥗 Light & Fresh

• A simple green salad with ranch or vinaigrette
• Sliced cucumbers with a touch of salt and vinegar

🥔 Down-Home Dinner

• Mashed potatoes and green beans
• Roasted carrots or glazed sweet potatoes

Meal Prep Idea: Pack leftovers in mason jars for easy, reheatable weekday lunches — just like having Cracker Barrel in your own kitchen!

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Customization & Variations

Every Southern cook has their own way to make Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup, so here are a few fun ways to tweak it to your taste:

🧄 Garlic Lovers

Add extra minced garlic or a dash of garlic powder to the broth.

🧈 Creamy Dreamy

Stir in a little cream cheese or extra butter at the end for a thicker, richer texture.

🥕 Veggie Boost

Add peas, carrots, or corn for color and extra nutrition.

🌶 Spicy Twist

A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika gives the soup a subtle kick.

🧀 Cheesy Comfort

Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar for a cheesy dumpling twist.

🍗 Shortcuts

Use store-bought rotisserie chicken and pre-made biscuit dough if you’re short on time — you’ll still get that cozy Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup flavor.

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Storing & Reheating

🧊 Storing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Note: The dumplings may thicken the soup slightly over time — just add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.

🔥 Reheating

Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat — it can break down the dumplings.

❄️ Freezing

Freeze without the dumplings for best results. The broth and chicken freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Add fresh dumplings when reheating.

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

(Serves 6)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 33g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 640mg

Rich, filling, and satisfying — Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup delivers all the comfort of a Southern classic with wholesome, real ingredients.

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Add everything except the dumplings to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours. Drop in dumplings during the last 30 minutes.

3. Can I use canned biscuits for dumplings?

You sure can! Cut them into small pieces and cook them in the broth just like homemade.

4. Can I make it dairy-free?

Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cream — it’ll still be delicious.

5. Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings.

6. Why did my dumplings fall apart?

The soup might’ve boiled too hard — keep it at a gentle simmer.

7. How do I thicken the broth?

Add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water before simmering.

8. Can I add herbs for more flavor?

Yes! Thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf adds depth to the broth.

9. Can I make it vegetarian?

Replace chicken with chickpeas or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

10. What should I serve with it?

Biscuits, salad, or roasted veggies make the perfect pairing for Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup.

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Final Thoughts 🍽️

There’s something timeless about a steaming bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup — it’s more than just food, it’s comfort in its purest form. The tender chicken, soft dumplings, and rich broth all come together like a hug from home.

It’s the kind of meal that soothes the soul, warms you from the inside out, and makes you forget the world for a while. Whether it’s for Sunday supper, a rainy evening, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe never fails to make everyone feel cared for.

So next time you’re craving a little taste of comfort, skip the restaurant and make it yourself — your kitchen will smell heavenly, and your heart (and stomach) will be full.

💛 Tried This Recipe?

If you make Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumpling Soup, I’d love to see your delicious creations! Tag your photos and follow me on Pinterest at grannyslilkitchen — where every recipe is made with love and a dash of nostalgia.