Few dishes bring warmth and nostalgia like Chicken and Dumplings Recipe. This beloved Southern comfort food is a combination of tender chicken, a rich, savory broth, and soft, fluffy dumplings. Whether served on a chilly evening or as a weekend family meal, this dish is a timeless favorite.
For another Southern classic, check out Biscuits and Gravy: The Ultimate Southern Breakfast—another dish that embodies comfort and tradition.
The History of Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings has its roots in early American cuisine, influenced by European settlers who brought dumpling-style recipes to the U.S. The dish became popular in the Southern United States, where home cooks used simple ingredients like chicken, flour, butter, and milk to create an affordable and hearty meal.
Over time, variations developed across different regions. Some prefer a thicker, gravy-like broth, while others opt for a clear, soup-style version. The dumplings also differ—some recipes feature flat, rolled dumplings, while others use fluffy drop dumplings, similar to biscuits.
If you love crispy, Southern-style comfort foods, be sure to try Classic Southern Fried Chicken – A Timeless Favorite, another dish deeply rooted in Southern culinary history.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings
1. The Chicken Component
- Bone-in chicken thighs for a deeper broth flavor
- Boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option
- Homemade chicken stock for an authentic taste
2. The Dumpling Component
- Flour and baking powder for structure and texture
- Butter or shortening for richness
- Milk or buttermilk for tender dumplings
Step-by-Step Recipe for Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
1. Making the Chicken Broth
- Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in butter.
- Add chicken, garlic, and seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme).
- Pour in chicken stock and let it simmer for 40 minutes.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
2. Making the Dumplings
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly stir in milk and mix until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering broth and cook until fluffy.
For another hearty and creamy dish, check out Chunky Bacon Potato Soup: A Hearty & Comforting Classic.
Regional Variations of Chicken and Dumplings
- Southern Style: Thick, creamy broth with fluffy, biscuit-like dumplings.
- Midwestern Style: Clear broth with noodle-style dumplings.
- New England Style: A stew-like consistency with added vegetables.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Pair your chicken and dumplings with:
- Cornbread for a classic Southern side
- Collard greens or steamed vegetables for balance
- Sweet tea or a glass of white wine
Looking for more diner-style comfort food? Try this Patty Melt Recipe: A Diner-Style Classic You Can Make at Home.
Nutritional Information & Healthier Alternatives
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~500
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fat: ~20g
Healthier Substitutions
- Use whole wheat flour for dumplings.
- Swap cream-based broth for a lighter, stock-based version.
- Opt for lean chicken breast instead of dark meat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I keep dumplings from falling apart?
Avoid over-stirring once they are added to the broth.
Can I make chicken and dumplings in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add dumplings in the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
Final Thoughts
Chicken and dumplings is a true comfort food classic, perfect for any season. Whether you prefer rolled dumplings or fluffy drop dumplings, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Have a favorite way to enjoy chicken and dumplings? Let us know in the comments! 🍲
The Ultimate Guide to Chicken and Dumplings – A Southern Comfort Classic
Ingredients
Ingredients for Chicken and Dumplings
For the Chicken Broth
- 1 ½ lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless chicken breasts)
- 6 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup butter, cubed
- ¾ cup milk or buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Instructions for Chicken and Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Broth
- Heat butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and poultry seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken stock and add the chicken pieces and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer for 40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot, discard the bay leaf, and shred the meat using two forks.
Step 2: Make the Dumplings
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add milk, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Return shredded chicken to the pot, bringing the broth to a gentle simmer.
- Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough into the broth, making sure they don’t touch.
- Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot.
🍲 Enjoy your homemade Chicken and Dumplings! 🍲