Chicken and Dumplings Recipe: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings on a chilly day. This dish has all the hallmarks of comfort food: tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich, savory broth.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty family meal or something special for dinner guests, chicken and dumplings will hit the spot.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this dish from scratch.
What Makes Chicken and Dumplings Special?
Chicken and dumplings are a classic American comfort food. Originating from humble beginnings, this dish combines simple ingredients to create something that feels special. It has roots in Southern cuisine, but many regions, especially the Midwest, have their own spin on it. Some prefer fluffy drop dumplings, while others opt for flat, rolled dumplings. Regardless of the version, it always delivers the warmth of a home-cooked meal.
Ingredients Needed for Chicken and Dumplings
For the Chicken Soup/Base:
- 1 whole chicken (or 4-5 chicken thighs)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Ladle
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
How to Choose the Best Chicken for This Recipe
Using a whole chicken or bone-in thighs adds extra flavor to the broth. If you’re short on time, boneless chicken breasts can also work, but the broth may need a bit more seasoning. For a deeper flavor, try using a combination of dark and white meat.
Preparing the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a large pot and cover with water or broth.
- Add bay leaves, salt, and a few peppercorns for seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and set it aside.
Making the Chicken Soup Base
In the same pot:
- Heat a little oil and sauté onions, garlic, celery, and carrots until soft.
- Pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper for seasoning.
- Add the shredded chicken back to the pot.
How to Make Homemade Dumplings
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk and melted butter, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid over-mixing, as it can make the dumplings tough.
Drop Dumplings vs. Rolled Dumplings
- Drop Dumplings: Soft, fluffy balls of dough that are spooned directly into the broth.
- Rolled Dumplings: Thin, flat pieces of dough that resemble noodles and require rolling and cutting.
Choose according to your texture preference. Drop dumplings are easier and quicker, while rolled dumplings provide a more structured bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Chicken and Dumplings
- With your soup base simmering, gently drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the pot.
- Cover the pot and let the dumplings cook for 10-12 minutes without stirring.
- Check the dumplings—they should be puffed up and cooked through. If not, let them cook for a few more minutes.
- Give the soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t over-mix the dumpling dough: This can make the dumplings dense.
- Avoid lifting the lid too early: Dumplings need steam to cook properly.
- Balance the thickness of the broth: If it’s too thin, add a slurry of flour and water to thicken it.
Tips for Making the Dish Even Better
- Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer broth.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the flavor.
- For a twist, throw in some peas or mushrooms toward the end.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a little broth to loosen the soup, as the dumplings will absorb liquid over time. This dish can also be frozen, though the dumplings may become slightly softer after thawing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chicken and dumplings with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad. For beverages, a glass of white wine or iced tea pairs nicely.
FAQs about Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
1. What are chicken and dumplings?
Chicken and dumplings is a classic comfort food dish commonly found in Southern American cuisine. It consists of a chicken stew with a thick, creamy broth and soft dough dumplings cooked in the stew.
2. How do I make the dumplings for chicken and dumplings?
To make dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, and salt with butter and milk to form a dough. Drop spoonfuls of dough directly into the simmering stew, cover, and let them steam for about 15-20 minutes until they are firm and puffy.
3. Can I use store-bought biscuits as dumplings?
Yes, you can use store-bought biscuit dough as a quick alternative. Roll the dough into small balls and drop them into the stew to cook. This can save time and still deliver delicious results.
4. What is the best way to thicken chicken and dumplings?
The broth usually thickens from the flour in the dumplings, but for extra thickness, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Can chicken and dumplings be made in a slow cooker?
Yes, chicken and dumplings are ideal for slow cooking. Add your chicken, vegetables, and broth to the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add the prepared dumplings in the last hour of cooking.
6. How do I store leftover chicken and dumplings?
Cool the leftovers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave.
7. Are chicken and dumplings suitable for freezing?
It’s best to avoid freezing the dumplings as they can become soggy when reheated. However, the chicken stew portion can be frozen. When ready to serve, make fresh dumplings and add them to the reheated stew.
Conclusion
Chicken and dumplings are the perfect comfort food. Whether you make drop or rolled dumplings, the combination of tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings is hard to beat. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight meals but special enough for Sunday dinners. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite go-to meal!
References
For those looking to dive deeper into the art of crafting the perfect Chicken and Dumplings recipe, the following resources offer credible and comprehensive guidance. These sources not only validate the techniques and tips shared in our article but also provide a broader spectrum of variations and expert advice:
- The Spruce Eats – Renowned for reliable recipes, The Spruce Eats offers detailed cooking instructions and culinary insights, ensuring every home chef can achieve success in the kitchen. Visit The Spruce Eats for Chicken and Dumplings.
- AllRecipes – A treasure trove of user-generated recipes, AllRecipes features multiple versions of Chicken and Dumplings, complete with community ratings and modifications. This platform allows you to see how different cooks adjust the dish to their tastes. Explore AllRecipes for more inspiration.
- Serious Eats – For those who appreciate the science behind cooking, Serious Eats provides an in-depth look at the techniques that make traditional dishes like Chicken and Dumplings a comfort food favorite. Learn the science with Serious Eats.
- Food Network – Offering recipes from celebrity chefs and culinary professionals, Food Network is a go-to for trusted recipes and cooking demonstrations. Their version of Chicken and Dumplings is both classic and highly reviewed. Check out Food Network’s take on this dish.
- Epicurious – Known for sophisticated and well-tested recipes, Epicurious offers a gourmet twist on traditional meals, including Chicken and Dumplings. Their recipes are curated from expert chefs and culinary authors. Experience gourmet with Epicurious.
These references provide a solid foundation for understanding and mastering Chicken and Dumplings, enabling readers to enhance their cooking repertoire confidently. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, these resources are invaluable for perfecting this beloved comfort dish.
