Chicken and Dumpling Recipe: Chicken and dumplings are the epitome of comfort food. Imagine a steaming bowl of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, savory broth—pure bliss! This dish has its roots in Southern cooking and has become a household favorite for its heartwarming flavors and simplicity.
The origins of chicken and dumplings trace back to humble beginnings when families used simple ingredients to create filling, delicious meals. Today, it’s a staple across many homes worldwide, symbolizing warmth and togetherness.
Ingredients Needed for Chicken and Dumplings
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Gather the following ingredients before starting:
Main Ingredients for the Chicken Base
- 2 lbs of chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in for richer flavor)
- 6 cups of chicken broth
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredients for the Dumplings
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ¾ cup of milk
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- A dash of cream for a richer broth
- Spices like paprika or rosemary
Tools Required for Making Chicken and Dumplings
Cooking this dish doesn’t require fancy equipment, just the basics:
- A large Dutch oven or deep pot
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Ladle for serving
- Mixing bowl for dumplings
- Rolling pin (if making rolled dumplings)
If you lack a Dutch oven, a regular heavy-bottomed pot works fine.
Preparing the Chicken Base
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. In your pot, heat the butter or oil over medium heat and sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides. This step locks in flavor.
Step 2: Making the Broth
Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until fragrant. Add the chicken back along with the broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 30–40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Preparing the Dumplings
Types of Dumplings You Can Use
Choose between drop dumplings (soft and fluffy) or rolled dumplings (flat and chewy). Each has its charm, but drop dumplings are quicker and easier for beginners.
Step 1: Mixing the Dough
Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Stir in milk and melted butter until a thick dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the dumplings dense.
Step 2: Shaping the Dumplings
For drop dumplings, scoop spoonfuls of dough. If rolling, roll the dough out on a floured surface and cut it into strips.
Cooking the Chicken and Dumplings Together
Step 1: Adding Dumplings to the Pot
Once your chicken base is ready, reduce the heat to low. Carefully drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering broth. Ensure there’s enough room between the dumplings so they don’t stick together. If you’re using rolled dumplings, lay the strips gently on the broth’s surface.
Step 2: Perfectly Simmering to Blend Flavors
Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15–20 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid frequently—this helps the dumplings steam and become fluffy. While the dumplings cook, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the dumplings remain intact.
Serving Chicken and Dumplings
Presentation Tips
Serve chicken and dumplings in large, shallow bowls to showcase the hearty dumplings and tender chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Best Side Dishes to Pair
Pair this dish with:
- A crisp green salad for balance
- Warm, crusty bread for dipping
- Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables to add more texture
Variations of Chicken and Dumplings
Classic Southern Style
Traditional Southern chicken and dumplings use rolled dumplings and sometimes include a touch of cream in the broth for richness. This style emphasizes simple, bold flavors.
Healthier Alternatives
For a lighter version, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and low-sodium broth. Swap regular flour for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives, and replace butter with olive oil.
Regional Twists to Try
- Asian-inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and scallions to the broth. Replace dumplings with wontons.
- Mexican twist: Add cumin, chili powder, and fresh cilantro, with masa harina dumplings for a unique flavor.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dumplings Every Time
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the dough: This makes dumplings dense instead of fluffy.
- Skipping the lid: Dumplings need steam to cook properly. Keep the pot covered!
- Boiling instead of simmering: High heat can break up the dumplings and make the chicken tough.
Expert Tips for Beginners
- Use bone-in chicken for a more flavorful broth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as you go—well-seasoned broth is key!
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Best Methods for Storing Leftovers
Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed. Microwaving is quicker but can dry out the dumplings—use a covered dish and low power settings.
Nutritional Information
A serving of chicken and dumplings contains approximately:
- Calories: 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-5g
FAQs about Chicken and Dumpling Recipe
What are the essential ingredients for chicken and dumplings?
The core ingredients include chicken (breast or thighs), all-purpose flour, butter, milk, and vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Seasonings typically involve salt, pepper, and thyme.
How long does it take to make chicken and dumplings?
The total cooking time is about 1 to 1.5 hours. This includes preparing the broth, cooking the chicken, and simmering the dumplings until they are fluffy and cooked through.
Can I use store-bought biscuit dough for dumplings?
Yes, using pre-made biscuit dough is a popular shortcut for making dumplings. Just roll out the dough, cut it into pieces, and drop them into your simmering broth.
Is there a gluten-free option for chicken and dumplings?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for both the broth thickening and the dumplings.
Can chicken and dumplings be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, chicken and dumplings are perfect for slow cooking. Add all ingredients except the dumplings to the slow cooker, cook on low for 6-7 hours, then add the dumpling dough and cook for an additional hour.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water to loosen the mixture if necessary.
Conclusion
Chicken and dumplings is a timeless comfort dish that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home. With its tender chicken, hearty broth, and fluffy dumplings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Follow the steps above, add your personal touch, and enjoy this classic dish.
