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The comforting allure of a classic Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is something that never gets old. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth, coziness, and the nostalgic taste of homemade goodness. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich broth with light, fluffy dumplings that soak up all those beautiful flavors, creating a bowlful of pure comfort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a hearty meal on a chilly day, this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe delivers a timeless flavor that feels like a big, delicious hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients often create the best dishes, and this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is no exception. Each component plays a vital role—from the hearty chicken that forms the base, to the fresh vegetables that add sweetness and earthiness, and the dumplings themselves that finish this meal with the perfect soft bite and texture.
- 1 whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds, cut into pieces): The star of the dish providing juicy, tender meat and the foundation for a rich broth.
- 1 yellow onion (cut into quarters): Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the stock.
- 3 large carrots (cut into thirds): Brings natural sweetness and beautiful color to the broth.
- 3 ribs celery (cut into thirds): Offers a subtle earthiness and keeps the broth balanced.
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors in the pot.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Adds a gentle spice for warmth.
- 1 bay leaf (or ¼ teaspoon poultry seasoning, optional): Infuses the broth with a subtle herbal note.
- 8 cups reduced sodium chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base for the dumplings to cook in.
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch (plus 4 tablespoons water): Used to thicken the broth to a luscious consistency.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting): The main ingredient for the tender dumplings.
- â…“ cup shortening: Provides richness and helps create fluffy dumplings.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the dumplings rise and stay light.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the dumpling dough’s flavor.
- ¾ cup milk: Brings moisture and tenderness to the dumpling batter.
How to Make Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Start by placing your chicken pieces into a large soup pot along with the quartered onion, cut carrots, celery ribs, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. This combination is the secret to building a deeply flavorful broth that’s the backbone of your Chicken and Dumplings Recipe. The vegetables and herbs will slowly release their essence as they simmer with the chicken.
Step 2: Simmer the Chicken
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it gently simmer for 45 to 60 minutes. This slow cooking ensures the chicken becomes tender and the broth perfectly infused with all the aromatics. While the broth simmers, it’s the perfect time to prepare your dumpling dough.
Step 3: Strain and Shred
Once the chicken is cooked through, strain the broth through cheesecloth to remove solids, leaving you with a clear and fragrant base. Shred or chop the chicken meat, discarding bones and skin, and if you like, chop the vegetables from the broth or simply set them aside for a smoother texture. This step sets you up for the final assembly that makes this dish so wonderful.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Return the strained broth to the pot and bring it back to a boil. Gently add spoonfuls of your dumpling dough into the simmering broth. The dumplings will puff up and cook in around 15 to 20 minutes, soaking up the broth’s savory goodness while maintaining their delightful fluffiness—this stage is pure magic in the Chicken and Dumplings Recipe.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Finish
Add your shredded chicken back into the pot along with any reserved vegetables if you like. Simmer everything together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors marry perfectly and the chicken heats through. The result is a dish that’s hearty, comforting, and satisfying down to the very last spoonful.
How to Serve Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten the warm, creamy richness of Chicken and Dumplings Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over each bowl before serving. A light dusting of cracked black pepper adds a slight kick. These small touches add color contrast and a fresh pop that make each serving feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Although Chicken and Dumplings stand beautifully as a full meal, pairing it with a crisp green salad balances the comforting richness. Lightly dressed mixed greens or steamed green beans offer a refreshing counterpoint that keeps the meal well-rounded and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style presentation, serve the Chicken and Dumplings Recipe in a large, rustic soup tureen right at the table so everyone can ladle out generous portions. Alternatively, serve it in individual deep bowls with a fresh crusty bread roll on the side to soak up every last bit of that luscious broth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken and Dumplings can be transferred into airtight containers and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds its comfort perfectly but try to keep it well covered to preserve the dumplings’ texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the Chicken and Dumplings in individual portions using sturdy freezer-safe containers. Dumplings may become a bit denser upon freezing, but the soup base retains its flavor wonderfully. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the dumplings. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during refrigeration or freezing.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can speed up cooking time, but the whole chicken offers a richer, more flavorful broth due to the bones and skin. If using breasts, consider adding chicken wings or thighs for additional depth.
What if I don’t have shortening for the dumplings?
If you don’t have shortening, you can substitute with butter or lard. Butter adds a subtle richness and flavor, while lard will keep the dumplings tender and light as well.
Can I make the dumplings gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes Xanthan gum, you can make dumplings that are just as tender and fluffy. Keep the other ingredients the same for best results.
Do I have to strain the broth through cheesecloth?
Straining through cheesecloth gives the broth a clean, clear finish by catching tiny bits of vegetable and impurities. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can strain through a fine sieve or skip it altogether.
How thick should the broth be?
Using the cornstarch slurry helps thicken the broth into a velvety consistency that clings beautifully to the dumplings and chicken. Aim for a pourable but slightly thickened liquid that feels hearty without being too heavy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that feels like home in every bite, this Chicken and Dumplings Recipe is an unbeatable choice. It’s the kind of timeless comfort food that makes any day better, whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a warm, satisfying meal. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite that’s stood the test of time.
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Print
Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 105 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 9 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This classic Chicken and Dumplings recipe features tender chicken simmered with aromatic vegetables and a rich homemade broth, topped with soft, fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a comforting meal that serves 8 to 9 people, this dish combines slow simmering and careful preparation to create a wholesome southern-style favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Broth
- 1 whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds, cut into pieces)
- 1 yellow onion (cut into quarters)
- 3 large carrots (cut into thirds)
- 3 ribs celery (cut into thirds)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 bay leaf (or ¼ teaspoon poultry seasoning, optional)
- 8 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
For the Dumplings
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- â…“ cup shortening
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch (plus 4 tablespoons water for slurry)
Instructions
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: In a large soup pot, combine chicken pieces, quartered onion, cut carrots, celery, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to create the base for your broth.
- Simmer Broth: Add reduced sodium chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover to simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until chicken is tender and fully cooked. While broth simmers, prepare the dumplings.
- Prepare Broth and Chicken: Strain broth through cheesecloth to remove solids. Shred or chop the cooked chicken, discarding skin and bones. Optionally chop the cooked vegetables or discard them. Set shredded chicken aside.
- Add Broth Back and Cook Dumplings: Return strained broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Gently add dumpling batter spoonfuls into the boiling broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until dumplings are tender and cooked through.
- Mix Chicken and Vegetables: Stir shredded chicken, and optionally the cooked vegetables, into the broth and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Thicken Broth with Cornstarch: Mix 4 tablespoons cornstarch with 4 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the hot broth to thicken it slightly. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until broth thickens.
- Serve Hot: Remove bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken and dumplings hot as a hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use reduced sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Shredding the chicken finely helps it integrate better for even bites.
- For a richer broth, add a splash of cream or butter before serving.
- Ensure dumplings are gently dropped and simmered without stirring to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
