Cracker Barrel-Style Dumplings in Creamy Chicken Sauce

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Homestyle Chicken and Dumplings (Cracker Barrel Style) 🥄

Tender, pillowy **dumplings smothered in a rich, buttery gravy**—this homestyle recipe captures the comforting soul of Southern comfort food. Inspired by the beloved dish served at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, these soft, hand-rolled dumplings are boiled to perfection, then nestled into a velvety sauce made with milk, butter, and savory chicken flavor. It’s simple, satisfying, and tastes like home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

This isn’t just another side dish—it’s **warmth on a plate**. With fluffy, tender dumplings and a creamy, nostalgic sauce that clings to every bite, this classic Southern favorite is perfect for chilly nights or family dinners. Made from pantry staples and ready in **under 30 minutes**, it’s humble cooking at its finest.

Perfect for:

  • Cozy weeknight meals
  • Serving alongside roasted chicken or pot roast
  • Fans of old-school comfort dishes

Ingredients 🛒

For the Dumplings

  • **2 cups** (240g) all-purpose **flour**
  • **2 tsp** baking powder
  • **½ tsp** salt
  • **1 cup** (240ml) **milk** (whole or 2% recommended)
  • **¼ cup** (60ml) vegetable **oil**

For the Sauce Base & Cooking Liquid

  • **2 quarts** (8 cups) **water**
  • **4 tsp** total **chicken soup base** (or 4 bouillon cubes, divided)
  • **3 tbsp** (45g) unsalted **butter**
  • **¼ cup** (30g) all-purpose **flour** (for the roux)
  • **½ tsp** sugar
  • **1 cup** (240ml) **milk**
  • **½–¾ cup** reserved dumpling **cooking liquid** (key for flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions 👩‍🍳

1. Make the Dumpling Dough

  • In a large bowl, whisk together **flour**, **baking powder**, and **salt**.
  • Stir in **milk** and **oil** until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently **4–5 times**—just enough to come together. **Don’t overwork.**
2. Roll & Cut the Dumplings

  • Pat or roll dough to **⅛-inch thickness**.
  • Cut into **1 x 1½-inch rectangles** using a knife or pizza cutter.
  • Gently place cut pieces on a floured tray—don’t stack.
3. Boil the Dumplings

  • In a large pot, bring **2 quarts water** and **2 tsp chicken soup base** to a boil.
  • Gently drop dumplings in one at a time—don’t overcrowd.
  • Cook **3–5 minutes**, stirring occasionally, until they **float to the top** and feel tender.
  • Use a slotted spoon to remove dumplings and transfer to a bowl. **Reserve the cooking liquid!**
4. Make the Creamy Sauce (Gravy)

  • In a medium saucepan over **medium heat**, melt **butter**.
  • Whisk in **¼ cup flour** and cook **1–2 minutes** (making a roux).
  • Mix **sugar** into the **milk**. Gradually whisk the milk into the roux until smooth.
  • Stir in the remaining **2 tsp chicken soup base**.
  • Cook **3–5 minutes**, stirring often, until thickened and glossy.
5. Combine & Finish

  • Gently **fold cooked dumplings** into the sauce.
  • Stir in **½ cup reserved cooking liquid**. Simmer on low heat **3–5 minutes** to meld flavors.
  • If too thick, add more cooking liquid 1 tbsp at a time.
  • Season with **salt and pepper** to taste.

Serve with: A crisp green salad | Steamed vegetables | Or enjoy all on its own

You Must Know 🔑

  • **Reserve cooking liquid**—it’s infused with flavor and helps thin the sauce naturally.
  • **Don’t overcook dumplings**—they’ll become mushy. Float = done!
  • **Cut dumplings evenly**—ensures uniform cooking.
  • Tastes better the next day! Flavors deepen overnight.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • **Chicken soup base:** Bouillon cubes, broth, or seasoning salt.
  • **Milk:** Half-and-half (richer) or oat milk (dairy-free option).
  • **Vegetable oil:** Melted butter or bacon fat (adds flavor).
  • **All-purpose flour:** Gluten-free 1:1 blend (verify other ingredients for GF).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought biscuit dough?
A: Not ideal—they’re thicker and won’t cook the same way. Stick to homemade for the classic thin, tender texture.
Q: Why did my sauce turn out lumpy?
A: Likely due to adding cold milk too fast or not whisking constantly. Gradually whisking in slightly warmed milk helps prevent lumps.
Q: Can I make drop dumplings instead?
A: Yes! Skip rolling—drop tablespoon-sized balls into simmering broth. Cook 10–12 minutes until puffed and cooked through.

Cultural Context Southern Roots 🏡

Rooted in Appalachian and Southern American kitchens, this recipe honors the tradition of turning simple ingredients into something deeply satisfying. Found on farmhouse tables and at church suppers, it celebrates how a few quality ingredients—when combined with care—become something truly special.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Based on 6 servings

Calories: 290
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 680mg

This dish doesn’t shout. It simmers quietly, creamy and fragrant, saying everything a great meal should: “Sit down. Eat. You’re taken care of.”

 

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